Let’s have an unfiltered, uncomfortable, totally necessary conversation.

I live with multiple chronic illnesses, but one that regularly makes me feel like I’m losing a war with my own body is IBS-C/D—that’s both constipation and diarrhea, for those lucky enough not to know the full extent of this digestive hellscape. This relentless condition causes my digestive system to behave unpredictably, leaving me dealing with painful bloating and discomfort that can strike at any moment, transforming routine days into a battle for normalcy. The constant cycle of urgency and discomfort often makes social situations daunting, as I never know when I might need to find a restroom in a hurry. Each flare-up feels like a reminder of how fragile my health can be, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration as I navigate through the ups and downs of everyday life. It also forces me to carefully plan my meals and activities, always on alert for triggers that can send my body spiraling into chaos.

No One Talks About the Gut War Enough

It is as though talking about your health issues is this taboo that no one has really seemed to break, but loves, let me tell you something. I don’t shy away from it, because as my Momma always said, [Insert Stupid Forest Gump Joke]” “I tend to over share.” Sorry, not sorry. Especially if it helps someone else, and trust me, I’ve learned that by opening up, I can create a space for others to feel comfortable sharing their own experiences. It can be daunting at first, but discussing these personal challenges not only fosters connection but also helps to break the ice around a subject that many people find difficult to approach. We all have our battles, and by sharing our stories, we can build a community that supports one another through thick and thin. So, let’s normalize these conversations, because vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s a strength that can inspire and uplift others who might be going through similar struggles.

Let’s break it down.

On the constipation side:

• You’re so backed up it feels like your intestines are trying to turn inside out.
• You’re doubled over, sweating, maybe crying—yes, crying—just trying to go to the bathroom.
• You get hit with wave after wave of pressure and false alarms. You keep sitting on that toilet, feeling like something is going to give… but nope. Just more cramps, pressure, and tears.
• The bloat? You could honestly pass for pregnant. The pain is real, and it can last days.

Then comes the diarrhea side:

• You need to know where the bathroom is everywhere you go. Not casually… like it’s part of your zombie apocalypse escape plan.
• Your brain makes a mental map of restrooms in every store, every gas station, every friend’s house—just in case.
• When the urgency hits? It’s like DEFCON 1. If you’re not within sprinting distance of a toilet, it’s panic mode.
• Plans get canceled. Social anxiety kicks in. You end up stuck between “Can I risk leaving the house?” and “How embarrassing will it be if I don’t make it?”

And the real kicker? You never know which one’s coming. You could go from painfully constipated to explosive diarrhea within hours, creating a chaotic scene that leaves you bewildered and uncomfortable. It’s like your intestines are playing roulette—only the prize is suffering. One moment you might be clutching your abdomen in agony, desperate for relief, and the next, you’re sprinting to the bathroom, frantically hoping to avoid an unpleasant incident. This unpredictable cycle can disrupt your daily life, adding an extra layer of stress as you navigate social situations, work commitments, and even those precious moments of relaxation. It’s a cruel twist of fate that keeps you on the edge, never quite knowing what your body has in store for you next.

Zepbound + IBS = Oh, the Drama

When I started taking Zepbound, I knew side effects were possible—but the constipation hit like a brick wall. My gut went from moody to completely shut down. I was bloated, miserable, and in a constant battle with my body just to do the most basic thing: poop. Every time I thought I had it figured out, my digestive system would throw me another curveball, leaving me frustrated and searching for solutions.

BUT—after a lot of trial, error, and a few desperate pleas to the universe—I’ve started to figure it out. Through extensive research, consultations with my healthcare provider, and a willingness to experiment with my diet, I’ve discovered some effective strategies to manage the situation.

Incorporating more fiber into my meals became crucial. Not only did whole grains, fruits, and vegetables help to ease my discomfort, but staying hydrated was equally important. I found that drinking plenty of water throughout the day drastically improved my digestive function. I also explored gentle physical activity, which helped stimulate my bowels.

Moreover, I learned to listen to my body more attentively. Keeping a journal to track my food intake and symptoms provided valuable insights that I could share with my doctor, leading to adjustments in my medication plan. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve found ways to stay on the medication and keep my gut from staging a full-on rebellion. By remaining proactive and informed, I’ve been able to take back control of my health and well-being while navigating the challenges that come with Zepbound.

My IBS-C/D Survival Toolkit

Here’s what’s currently keeping me somewhat sane and (mostly) regular:

• 🥄 MCT Oil – A total game-changer. I started small (because trust me, too much too fast = 💩 emergency), but it gently gets things moving without gut-wrenching cramps.
• ☕ Everyday Dose Mushroom Coffee – This surprised me. It’s less acidic, doesn’t upset my stomach, and the mushrooms actually help balance out my gut. It’s like brain fuel and belly calm in one cup.
• 🌱 Chia Seeds + Greek Yogurt – Old faithfuls. Together they pack a punch of fiber and probiotics. Plus, they help me feel like I have at least some control over what’s happening in my body.
• 💧 Water. So. Much. Water. – I drink so much I could probably start a small river. Hydration isn’t optional—it’s essential.
• 🧘‍♀️ Movement, stretching, and breathing through the chaos. – Whether it’s walking, stretching, or just pacing around the kitchen, movement helps keep things from locking up entirely. (And yes, sometimes I yell at my intestines. No shame.)

The Raw Truth

This isn’t just about poop—it’s about the way IBS-C/D hijacks your life. It’s about how it inserts itself into your plans, your peace, and your self-esteem. It’s about the emotional toll of being in a constant push-pull with your own body. It can feel like an unwelcome guest that overstays its welcome, disrupting your routines and casting a shadow over the simplest of joys. From social gatherings to day-to-day errands, it often feels like it’s lurking just around the corner, waiting to pounce.

Some days I cry in the bathroom. Some days I feel bloated and useless. Some days, I need to know exactly where the bathroom is like I’m planning a survival route through the apocalypse. The anxiety that comes with this condition is often overlooked, but it can be crippling. It’s not just about physical discomfort; it’s the mental burden of always being on guard, of constantly evaluating the nearest restroom or how a meal will affect your body. You may find yourself saying no to outings or meals, fearing the unpredictable nature of your symptoms, and missing out on precious moments that could otherwise be enjoyed.

It’s exhausting. It’s misunderstood. It’s invisible to most. And it makes everyday decisions feel like high-stakes gambles. The moments spent contemplating what to eat or where to go can overshadow the joy of spontaneity, turning simple pleasures into anxiety-laden choices.

But here’s the truth I remind myself (and now, you): you’re not alone. You’re not weak, lazy, or dramatic. You’re someone who’s doing your absolute best with a body that doesn’t always cooperate—and that deserves some serious credit. It takes immense courage to face each day, knowing that you might have to navigate the unpredictability of IBS-C/D. Acknowledging this struggle isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a testament to your strength and resilience.

So whether today you’re battling the constipation monster or making bathroom escape plans… I see you. I am you. We are part of a community united by a shared experience, no matter how isolating this journey might feel at times. Let’s continue to support one another, share our stories, and lift each other up as we navigate the complexities of living with IBS. There’s strength in solidarity, and together, we can face the challenges, ready to reclaim our lives and peace of mind.

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Much love and many blessings,
Mrs. B 🖤
Unconventional Momma
Because sometimes spiritual growth involves fiber, fierce honesty, and a bathroom checklist.