Bella Hadid has become increasingly open about her struggles with chronic health conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
While she is widely recognized for her success in the fashion industry, she has also used her platform to highlight the reality of living with circumstances that often go unnoticed but have a significant impact on everyday life.
Living with IBS
Bella Hadid has spoken about dealing with digestive issues, fatigue and the unpredictability that comes with IBS.
In interviews and social media, she has highlighted how these symptoms can affect her routine, especially in a high-pressure career.
“Living with an invisible illness is hard… you look good, but you don’t feel good,” she said.
This statement reflects a common challenge that people with IBS face, which is that symptoms are not always visible, leading to misunderstandings or dismissal.
She has also stressed the importance of listening to her body, saying: “Sometimes you have to take a step back and focus on your health.”
Her openness has helped normalize conversations about gut health and chronic conditions, especially among younger audiences.
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects the interaction between the intestines and the brain. Unlike inflammatory bowel disease, IBS does not cause structural damage, but can significantly affect quality of life.
It is often caused by factors such as:
- Tension
- Diet
- Hormonal changes
- Sensitivity of the intestines
Symptoms of IBS
Symptoms vary from person to person, but usually include:
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Bloating and gas
- Diarrhea (IBS-D), constipation (IBS-C) or alternating patterns
- Urgency to use the bathroom
- Feeling of incomplete bowel movements
Symptoms are often chronic and fluctuate over time, making the condition difficult to manage.
Treatment and management
There is no single cure for IBS, but symptoms can be managed through a combination of approaches:
1. Diet Changes:
- Low FODMAP diet, according to John Hopkins MedicineFODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols. These are types of short-chain sugar/carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine, leading to digestive problems
- Avoid trigger foods (e.g. caffeine, fatty foods)
2. Stress Management:
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
- Therapy or counseling
3. Medicines:
- Antispasmodics for pain
- Laxatives or anti-diarrheal medications
- Probiotics
4. Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Regular exercise
- Enough sleep
Bella Hadid’s openness about IBS highlights the reality of living with an “invisible” illness. Her message is that well-being should be a priority, even in demanding careers. By speaking out, she helps reduce stigma and encourages others to seek support and understanding for chronic conditions such as IBS.
