'At Home with Helen' Dealing with Irritable Bowel Syndrome...

A different video today.
I thought long and hard about sharing this video, but I can't be the only one who struggles with IBS, Irritable Bowel Syndrome..... In today's video I share some practical solutions for dealing with the more embarrassing side effects of this horrible condition.
Obviously, we should all be aware of our own bodies, do the tests that come through and see the Dr if we are in the least bit worried about anything, or notice changes in a bowel habits.
Loo Fresheners:
1 cup baking powder
1/4 cup citirc acid
35 drops of essential oils (whatever you prefer)
1 or 2 tbsps of distilled white vinegar
Instructions in the video.....
Home made Poo Pourri:
1/2 cup of water
1tsp rubbing alcohol
1tsp of dish soap
20/30 drops of essential oils
Instructions in the video.....
Carpet freshener:
Baking powder and essential oils....
Instructions in the video.....
Vacuum cleaner:
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Cake: @meeramakes.
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Instagram: helenmaryjohello
Website: www.helenmaryjohello
**affiliate link

[@jan3873]

I had IBS for most of my adult life, so I fully understand your video. I found out have weeks of listing my food intake that onions were my main problem. So when cooking I now use onion granules. ( it is the actual onion I could not eat) it does make it difficult when eating out. Back in 2011 I was told I had Bowel Cancer which had spread to my liver. I was given palliative treatment. As you are reading this 12 years I am cancer free. So please keep checking. Don’t expect to see blood in your poo. I never did.

[@beverleybirch2169]

I had bowel cancer in my early 40’s had half of my bowel removed, find some foods very tricky like you especially onions I use the onion powder too.

[@heatherclark1796]

Ive just started watching a parasite group on fb that says they cause illness including cancer. We used to self medicate with castor oil to rid us of parasites. Nowadays there is too much cancer around. Food for thought.

[@shirleywilliamson7444]

I went to see my GP a few weeks ago as my symptoms had become so bad, i couldn't go for a walk without needing my other half to collect me in the car, i literally couldn't move for fear of having an accident. I had tried all sorts and said I'm sure chemicals in food have a lot to do with it. He agreed and advised i do the low FODMAP for 6 weeks before adding food groups back into my diet to see what i can tolerate. 4 weeks in and so much better 😊. He also said write down any stresses and try to eliminate these. His final advice - make all meals from scratch, like our parents did

[@Bombabingbong66]

I am very pleased that you are having an improvement of symptoms, it's debilitating to be always fearful of attacks. I don't want to suggest anything injurious but I hv started drinking Kéfir and taking probiotic plain yoghurt and having oats for breakfast. It seems to be improving my symptoms if that is any help. I wish you continued health.

[@Myover50fashionlife]

My consultant suggested managing it with Immodoum before i eat. I also keep off anything that might give me an attack for 24 hours before i leave the house. It does mean managing life in a way others never think about.

[@carolesmith6821]

I was diagnosed over 30 years ago with IBS and had lots of embarrassing moments . I no longer have caffeine and found that helps the number of attacks i get I also highly recommend taking Flaxseed everyday on a morning added to breakfast cereal this changed my life from having attacks almost every week to now maybe once in 3 months its well worth trying and works for me . I love you channel and thank you for talking about this and making lots of us feel like we are not the only ones .

[@mrsoatso6331]

You’re very brave Helen talking about your struggles it is a hard subject to talk about. Yes we do get embarrassed but EVERYONE does it, I don’t have IBS or any other stomach troubles but used to get extremely embarrassed going for a poo if I was on like a caravan holiday with family members (close quarters and all that!) I used to line the toilet water so the splash wasn’t so obvious or run the tap or shower. Thanks again for your openness xx

[@lorraineshearing30]

Thanks for sharing this issue which is common for so many of us Helen. The urgency at times is frightening and the feeling of panic has left me shaking and feeling sick at times! I quite agree about our public toilets in this country, and my handbag contents are largely based around easing my discomfort, and endeavouring to remove smells as much as possible! And oh, how I identify with the embarrassment of the various noises and the pain waiting for someone to use a hand dryer or pulling their flush! I have always hated toilet humour from a young child, and I now know that it’s far beyond an joke, but, that said, we should all be more open! Well done and thank you for being so brave Helen xx

[@kennisjarvis8105]

It is indeed life. I have suffered with IBS as well…more so when I was younger. I have had three colonoscopies over the years just to be sure nothing more serious is going on. Thanks for sharing.

[@SandraMerrett]

Thank you Helen ,for the tips for the bathroom and talking about the subject nobody talks about

[@ninathomson4716]

Oh Helen, what an amazing thing to do, talking about this. I suffer so badly with ibs and a very sensitive tummy, it’s a pain in the butt isn’t it !!🙈🙈. People who don’t, don’t realise how fortunate they are. Thank you for these tips 🙂

[@danicacharles4221]

Hi Helen this vlog is amazing for being so transparent and open about bowels.... we need to stop poo being taboo. Lets keep sending that message from the wonderful Dame Debra James. You are a diamond for sharing this Helen. Thank you. ❤

[@marinawarburton6324]

Well done Helen it is so hard and embarrassing to talk about these things and others in my family but you are right we should. I'm 71 and suffered ibs and Diverticular disease for 50 years but your little tips and tricks are so helpful for everyone. Thank you sunshine. 😊

[@Helenmaryjo]

My pleasure xx

[@marinawarburton6324]

@@Helenmaryjo Thank you Helen for being so brave to talk on camera about this and for your really helpful tips I have ordered a silicone heart mould to make my little bombs like yours for me and my granddaughter who suffers badly bless her. I don't get out much due to health issues so alway love all your videos whether around the house, clothing or any other I even made 3 of your banana cake yesturday (one for hubbie which he loved 😋and one each for daughters and their families, like you so lucky they are close by.) I so look forward to your recordings you make me chuckle with things you say and seeing your mum and Dolly and hearing your snippets about your family and hope your hubs gets his treatment soon. 🥰Thank you Helen bless you ❤️

[@Helenmaryjo]

@@marinawarburton6324 Ah, that's lovely, thank you xx

[@mecraftytoo]

What a great video, thank you Helen,I’ve suffered for years with IBS and I do carry that VI poo around in my bag all the time, not anymore I’m going to be making your recipe for me and my Daughters,one has IBS too and the other has Crohns so they will both be very pleased. That’s the thing I do enjoy about your videos, they are so helpful, and you aren’t afraid to go where others don’t. Good on you girl xxx

[@dagnolia6004]

there is a children's book "Everybody Poos'. i have dealt with this "$%*#" my entire life. i remember in school, a teacher coming in the toilet stall while i was in to make sure i wasn't FAKING. mortifying for an 8 year old! THANK YOU for your Domestic Goddess helps for this problem. i love the phone recording idea. GENIUS!!!!

[@margaretries2606]

I had ibs for years. It got better. I have the utmost respect for your honesty. We are all human.❤

[@Mary_AnnH]

Helen I am so glad you made this video, I have had IBS on and off for years, it came back with a vengeance a few years ago. I have to agree with the state of our loos here in U.K.. I went for lunch in m&s and I had to try three different loos before I found one that was clean to use, it actually made me feel sick. I go thought loo cleaner like it’s going out of fashion as I like to use it after I go ……. Just to make it smell fresh. Thanks again for being so brave and speaking out. I really like you haul videos also, being a mature woman of a similar age.😊

[@ElaineRodgers-gk2dp]

I've just came across this video and I thought it was brilliant. I take panic attacks due to worrying when travelling that I won't get to loo on time. I really envy people who don't have these issues. ❤

[@Helenmaryjo]

I know, but what is surprising how many people do suffer (in silence). xx

[@maisiepet2]

Hi Helen, I suffered with IBS for years until I found out about the keto diet. Cutting out bread and carbs cured it completely. I now do the carnivore diet have lost 4 stone, my arthritis has gone and I have never felt so good in my life, I am 57. I suggest you watch Dr Berry here on KZbin xx

[@jillrose1786]

Definitely Dr. Berry and his recommendations. Changed my life! Thankyou Helen for this brilliant talk.

[@valeriekuck8667]

Hi Helen, what a women hopefully nothing will be out of bounds regarding woman’s issues - this is so ridiculous but you look too attractive and sophisticated to have IBS. I have suffered for years and stayed in the house rather than being caught short, it is so debilitating. Can’t wait to try your recipes - please keep on blogging and making us laugh.

[@jeaneford6895]

Bravo Helen, thank you for talking about this. As a daily sufferer it's an great help to be more open about IBS. I am always surprised how many people there are with difficult bowel conditions.

[@suek8177]

Thanks for this Helen. I am a long time suffer of IBS and 'tummy issues', so think it's great that you're posting this, along with some helpful 'perfume' recipes. You are right, it is embarrassing subject but one that so many of us suffer from in varying degrees; so guess we should learn to talk more freely about it. Thank you. ❤

[@user-fp5ps4db8l]

God bless you & may your channel continue to grow beyond your expectations!

[@valeriethomas1775]

Hi Helen It’s good to talk about this subject ye it’s what we all do isn’t it but somehow we find it embarrassing I have ibs & I do all like you do my bag is full of smelliest My son is 37 & for the past 6 yrs he has suffered ulcerative colitis it’s been so awful for him having to know where toilets are on route to work etc he went to university and studied to be a lawyer only to give up after having numerous accidents in courts well you know what men alike? He was always mortified at hospital he used to say mum why are all the nurses young n good looking who I have to give my samples too so yes thanks for talking about this subject we need to omg he would be mortified if he knew I’ve told everyone on here bless him thanks for sharing x

[@valeriethomas1775]

My bag is full of smelly’s not smelliest should of said ha ha

[@patmacdougall8912]

Hi Helen, I love watching your pod cast, especially M&S. I grew up it Edinburgh but now reside in Canada so I have to order my M&S from the Canadian site. I’m so sorry to hear about your stomach issues. For years I was told I had IBS but about 7 years ago it really ramped up so was referred to a GI specialist (gastroenterology specialist). Because I had my gallbladder removed about 35 years ago, the specialist was sure I had Bile acid malabsorption (BAM) which causes chronic diarrhea. I has a colonoscopy and a few other test to rule out Crones, Colitis, cancer etc. and was given the all clear. Conclusion: BAM and now take prescription Olestyr every day to stop the diarrhea or at least slow it down giving me enough time to find a toilet because that was a real problem too. The gallbladder regulates the amount of bile secreted into your stomach when you eat and when it’s removed the bile is uncontrolled, hence, diarrhea. Not everyone has this issue with gallbladder removal but both my sister and brother have this very same issue and no gallbladder. I hope this helps, and if you think your problem is BAM, push for a referral to a GI specialist. Good luck.

[@janetunley7377]

I seem to have the same problem. Seeing the doctor today and hopefully getting some medication. Thanks for sharing. BAM seems to have a very low awareness.

[@jennylarking1936]

Long term sufferer here too. Stress is definitely a major factor with me. Interviews, exams, social occasions all bring on the stomach ache. I do avoid curries and spicy food now, although I love them but every now and then I take a chance and sometimes it’s ok. The worst thing though is since having my baby (now 44) I suffer from haemorrhoids whenever I have a serious bout. That is agony for at least a couple of days. I am going to try your poo sprays and dog deodoriser too. I bought a Sharp vac which has a light and was surprised how useful it is. Thank you as always for your no nonsense attitude.

[@christhomas6448]

Thank you Helen, have been suffering with acid reflux, which has also effected my bowl movement, your video has been most helpful. X

[@jeanettedemosthenous2685]

Bravo Helen. I started having random episodes in later life and have practically eradicated the problem by avoiding lactose. There are so many lactose free products available now which is a blessing. I sometimes joke that if I need to "clean my pipes" I just eat some normal cheese. Works every time. I always had Imodium in the house but it was so expensive for just 6 capsules. My pharmacist here in Cyprus told me to purchase Loperamide and I get 30 capsules for less than 5 euros. Thanks for addressing this subject in your video. x

[@Celticcross688]

I am so pleased you have brought this condition to the surface.. I too suffer with IBS-D & Diverticula disease of the Sigmoid Colon. I was in Hospital twice in 21/22 and caught Psuedomonas aueriginosa nasty infection from hospital ffood.… ended up on drips and heavy antibiotic therapy twice, this has messed with my microbiome. The toilets in Southampton General Emergency ward were absolutely Filthy.. Also there is a chart Nurses follow called the Bristol chart, shows different types and consistencies of stools. Get Your Occult Blood test done on a regular basis every two Years via GP. Please be aware of processed foods in the supermarkets today..avoid, check labels.. I have a problem with egg whites, and and gravy cubes or granules.. full of MSG and E-additives which plays havoc on the gut.. THANKS FOR RAISING AWARENESS Helen. x

[@joancarucci8290]

Hello Helen I can relate to this video..sometimes I go weeks with no flareups .being out shopping or dining when it hits is the worse.Helen you took a off limits subject and made it informative done with real class. Bravo well done.

[@maxinehayes5570]

Hi Helen thank you so much for this I also suffer and hate using public loos. Your tips on fragrance and recording running water are brilliant. Wow oh to live somewhere like Japan where you can still keep your dignity. Thank you so much for recording this I am very grateful and I am sure you will help lots of people who suffer x

[@jeanmiller199]

Well done Helen your very brave talking about this subject......I have suffered on and off for many years I do think stress plays a big part in what I have had numerous tests and colonoscopy procedures three times no definitive diagnosis, but since I have eliminated stress from my life it has not returned.

[@Myover50fashionlife]

Hi Helen, nice to see you in the RH tshirt. I had colon cancer and the surgery left me with IBS which I’m working through .

[@Helenmaryjo]

I'm sorry to hear that. xx

[@Myover50fashionlife]

@Helenmaryjo thank you, Helen. And thank you for your video. X

[@jessicahayes-jones5327]

Hi helen its great you are bringing this to eveones attention being 44 years old and being born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus sometimes people dont realise how difficult life is for some people another issue i have is being judged when i park in a disabled parking space until people see my wheelchair some people need to be abit nicer sending much love 💖 Sue R

[@maureenandrews7151]

Helen, well done 👏 everything you said was exactly me. Its horrible!

[@rebeccamcglinchey7980]

Hi Helen I really appreciate you doing this video I have IBS too.And you are right we should talk about it more. Love all your trikes I will be given them a go thanks. I just love all your hauls and your sweet mum so lucky to still have with all. I lost my mum when I was very young child so always say to my friends cherish your mother because you only have one xx

[@juliaadams8167]

Thank you for sharing your great IBS tips Helen, so good to talk and be open about these topics. I’m not a sufferer myself but I’ve certainly had some embarrassing experience’s when I’ve had a tummy bug. Thank you for sharing 😊 The hoover look fab too xx

[@paulapomeroy830]

Well done. We’re all too shy about a perfectly normal bodily function. I’ve had all the tests - was even radioactive at one point 😳 but diagnosis was anxiety induced IBS so I’m on a very low dose of anti-depressants and loperamide - which I have to buy myself!! 🤬. The bladder and bowel assoc are good too - they send you a card you can show if you need a loo desperately. It must be nice to not have to worry about where the nearest loo is!! Ho hum. Can’t be cured, has to be endured. 😂

[@DeeCeeWoolley]

Thank you for doing very informational video. I found it most helpful. Perhaps this will help others to be more understanding about individuals who suffer from IBS. My mother suffered with IBS and was always too embarrassed to explain why she couldn’t go places or do certain things. If she were alive today, I would make these toilet bombs for her keep them in my purse keep them in her purse, and in every bathroom in her house and my house. I love potpourri, but it is very expensive. This has been very helpful. Thank you so very much and I too thought Debra James was wonderful and brave. You are wonderful and brave. I hope your mum reads this post🥰💃🏼

[@franperry5100]

Thank you, Helen, for this. I thought I'd share my 'must have' for getting rid of unpleasant bathroom odours ... matches. Just strike a match (or two at the same time) then gently blow out and waft around the loo. Smell gone! I think it's the sulphur that does the trick. And here's a bit of useless info. Remember the old outside shed-type loos? If a soldier (for instance) had left an odour, the next one in the queue would say "cor blimey mate, strike a light" which referred to the striking of a match for the reason I just mentioned. I keep a box in the medicine cabinet and in my handbag x

[@looloo4029]

Thank you Helen for what has proven to be one of the most valuable videos I’ve ever watched on KZbin. I have suffered IBS for years and for a long time didn’t understand what was wrong with me and why I seemed to be different from everyone else I knew. I have recently been diagnosed with Diverticular Disease. I least I now have a name for what is the matter with me. I was diagnosed by the specialist who did my scheduled 5-year colonoscopy.

[@Helenmaryjo]

At least you know now. Such a worry. I'm glad you enjoyed the video xx

[@jeanmitchell515]

So glad you have talked about IBS, as many people don't because of embarrassment!! So many people suffer with this and I feel sure you have helped them Helen in making this vlog. I will be sending this vlog to someone I know who suffers from it. Thank you. TTFN

[@anne4562]

Thank you so much for having the courage to share this. We can all relate in some way. ❤

[@jenniferfarrah3134]

Thankyou Helen for talking about a subject which I’ve always found embarrassing . I don’t suffer with IBS , but have difficulty going , & I will not use public or any toilets only my own . I had to have a colonoscopy last year . I was so embarrassed , but the NHS staff were so kind , at putting me at ease . You are truly an inspiration for making it all seem normal . & I loved your recipes for use in toilets. 🙏J

[@sarah10001]

Just discovered this video and you are wonderful for sharing your experience … I well remember commuting with this problem OMG. Since we’re in an age of cure ourselves I started leaving out dairy and then gluten. It seems to have worked - no more frantic and cataclysmic search for loo experiences, and all the rest. Yes diet is now a bit boring but worth it - and the lactose issue sorted with lactase tabs anyway. Keep up your fab YouTubing. Stay well.

[@Helenmaryjo]

Thank you very much xx

[@patriciakey7591]

Thank you Helen for todays honest and brave conversation. I just love what you do on your channel , it’s real and relevant..🙏

[@MsHighpeaks]

I have IBS and a undiagnosed urgency issue. This got so bad earlier this year I wouldn’t go out anymore. It would start with serve pain and I would have a very short time frame to get to the loo. And unfortunately I didn’t always make it. Mortifying. Thank you for talking about it

[@sabine3769]

I have episodes of bad cramp before bowel movements it's almost like there is a little blockage. What helps me is a a little sqatting stool in front toilet and just relax for several minutes manage my belly

[@nancysumner6050]

My 2 sisters and I also suffer from what I call 'episodes'. No rhyme or reason as to what causes the episodes and sometimes certain foods do and other times no bad reaction. But if I'm going out I try to be very careful what I eat, and to avoid what I think are triggers. And if I'm staying at anyone's I always take my poo pourri sprays, which at least makes me feel more in control, should i get caught short. Funnily enough I reordered just this morning for the 3 of us. Thank you so much for speaking about this. I love watching you and all your videos.

[@yvonnecasserly2606]

Very helpful video for people who struggle with IBS thanks Helen.

[@pienana2004]

Thanks so much for sharing your story. You are definitely not alone. I have microscopic colitis and the struggle is real. So happy your Mum is doing well with her diagnosis. Take care. Blessings from California XXX

[@vikkiboggas1158]

Thank you , you are such a lovely lady .

[@lizowen6949]

Well done Helen for making people aware that they are not alone with this problem. Although I am not a sufferer myself some of my family have Crohn’s disease and I know how debilitating that can be. I can imagine IBS has a similar affect on your life. Keep smiling lovely lady ❤

[@muriel240]

Hi Helen. Well done on speaking about this. My daughter was diagnosed with IBS but turned out to get ulcerative colitis and after trying different medication, which didn't work, she had to have her bowel removed. I know how conscious she is when going the toilet so thank you for highlighting this subject xx

[@Helenmaryjo]

That's is so hard. Thank you xx

[@pamelawright1369]

Can certainly relate to what you say it’s so embarrassing especially on holiday on out-in an evening. The pain can be excruciating. Great tips thank you for sharing 😊😊

[@mariancornelia4538]

Thank you i have crohns diagnosed 6 urs ago in my 60s i understand how you feel entirely my life has totally changed a wonderful tutorial praise to you

[@philippamallinson1232]

I've also had IBS for years, struggled with it on many occasions too, so I can sympathise. Loved all your recipes for bathroom freshnere will be pinching these. Take care and thank you for sharing.

[@doratheexplorer7304]

Yes, we'll done Helen for bringing IBS etc out into the open. I do suffer myself and it is very unpredictable! I just want to say, baking soda is not the same as baking powder, in case people get mixed up. Baking soda is the same as bicarbonate of soda. Thankyou for all your tips. I shall be giving them a try!

[@Helenmaryjo]

Yes, I got confused... sorry xx

[@doratheexplorer7304]

@@Helenmaryjo no problem! Just thought it might help if mentioned. I will be having a go at the toilet bombs! Thanks so much. Xx

[@lindaorr4248]

Thanks for the tips Helen...... Sometimes you just need to know you are not alone.... My tummy has a love/hate with coffee, I never have it now 😞

[@Helenmaryjo]

It's good if you can pinpoint the trigger. Thanks for watching xx

[@denisenoakes499]

Thank you so much Helen for talking about this very embarrassing problem. I can relate to everything that you said. This is by far the most awful disease to have. Great tips by the way. Thank you ❤

[@annettedolan7996]

Thank you thank God someone like me, My mother gave always carried a little bottle of perfume in her bag and I now carry the samples that you showed thank you

[@Helenmaryjo]

When it's brighter xx

[@sherylwithan_s]

Helen, Thank you for this very open, helpful and informative video . My husband also suffers with IBS and each day is different, as you said. Same with food... Can be fine one day and the next day, it's a major challenge. He has to schedule his days by "working in" bathroom time. Thanks so for the recipes of fragrances. I will be making those very soon. Wonderful video!! (The Poo-Loo had me in stitches)😊 xx

[@PAM-ud9lv]

Good for you Helen opening up and talking about your IBS and receipes for those needing the little toilet bombs etc. I have waited many a time for someone to flush the toilet or use the hand dryer. It seems it’s a problem for a lot of people. Thanks for sharing Helen You certainly are not alone

[@janehudson7157]

Brilliant video Helen, good for you for sharing such a personal experience. I had bowel cancer and count myself lucky to be here. Stomach plays up often with various issues. I’m definitely going to make my own loo (nice) smellies! Didn’t realise it was that easy!😁👍🏻 xxx

[@Helenmaryjo]

Exactly, being here is more important than poo! I hope you make a good recovery xx

[@Miss1Trisha]

Hi Helen, just wanted to mention that there seems to be connections with the vagus nerve and IBS. Just wondered if it would be worth you googling it, just in case it would be of use to you? Some people benefit of a resetting of the vagus nerve. Hope that this is of interest to you. Sending you my very best wishes xxx

[@ritamatters9129]

So important to get checked for any change in bowel habits. We know all about bowel cancer - our brother died from it - he was only 33! Very interesting video Helen, I think you’ve got some good tips there. I must admit having been through multiple bowel surgeries I tend to not worry what others think now. Japan sounds fab. x

[@Helenmaryjo]

So sorry for your loss xx

[@susanroche1760]

Helen absolutely brilliant ⭐️🌟⭐️🌟

[@tango9257]

Sorry to read about your IBS strenges Helen, but great that you share your positive tips with us. I can't use oils in my loos because we have a biological sewage system (no mains connection) and anything chemical can upset the equilibrium, unfortunately. My visitors , mostly understanding friends or family just have to put up with the pong! I looked at the Meeramakes site- how gorgeous are those cakes! Thank you so much for your vlog - I'd be lost without it😊

[@angie-wx8eo]

Hi Helen thank you so much for broaching a difficult subject which we all shy away from ❤

[@Helenmaryjo]

Glad it was helpful! xx

[@christineroper2592]

Thank you Helen for sharing this problem and solutions with us. Love xx

[@momackenzie5867]

Thanks for sharing….I’m in the midst of going Gluten free to see if this can improve my unpredictable bowel. It’s starting to av a really -ve impact on my life- having to stay home when it kicks off, ruining plans I’ve made etc. also trying to eat foods with a low FodMap index…so many things to consider 🤯!! The more open we can all be the better. Thanks again for opening the discussion. Xxx

[@Helenmaryjo]

Hope you get there. Gluten free seems to work for a lot of people xx

[@shirleywormald3197]

Thanks Helen for the candid and helpful video,I don't have I B S but radiotherapy has left me with occasional problems especially early mornings,really useful information,the spray and bombs are a great idea😊

[@mariajoy4722]

Thank you Helen for talking about this subject. I don’t have IBS but I have multiple sclerosis and signals from my brain sometimes come quite late and getting to the loo can be very urgent. I have a disabled toilet key but I don’t have time to find one! When I go out though I feel happier if I know exactly where the loos are x

[@alisonmckenzie1415]

Thanks for sharing Helen, yes I am a sufferer too.Stress certainly triggers an episode of IBS and mixing dairy with caffeine in my case.Thanks for the tips on toilet fresheners, take care 💚🌸.

[@naomicraig8747]

Striking a match or two and letting them burn helps remove an odour.

[@Helenmaryjo]

Yes, I've done that too xx

[@margaretsandiforth4420]

Brilliant Helen, well done, I don’t have IBS but, have what might have been called years ago, a nervous stomach! I can be fine, then start to eat a meal and have to dash to the loo, stress maybe I don’t know, but well done for talking about our poo problems xx

[@sandraabbott4683]

Thank you Helen I can relate to everything you mentioned well done x

[@katharinedavis4947]

That's a good idea about the spray thing to use when you're out. K

[@katharinedavis4947]

We couldn't see what you were doing with the spray . K

[@helenparker3165]

If anyone has never been in one of those situations in a private loo or public one they must be lying or extremely lucky. Thanks for the demo in making the toilet bombs etc. xx

[@sharonodonnell6482]

A great video Helen. We'll done for breaking down some barriers. Love your Hair and how did the eyelashes work out. Another area I think I would like to explore is female incontinence and what advice and support is out there. Mines rather a long story(numbers of years) but finally got there and no longer need to use panty liners. X

[@suebrister7181]

I have IBS and have just made some loo bombs but I added a tiny amount of blue food colouring to half so I will have a jar of blue and white. I have also made the loo spray. Thankyou so much for this.

[@Helenmaryjo]

Sounds good. xx

[@lyndatidman3868]

Hi 👋 Helen my husband has IBS it came on after he had legionnaires in turkey so I do know how he feels so thanks for doing this video 😊

[@DVB1848]

I suffered for years before I was diagnosed in 2007 as having IBS. I was asked to keep a food diary for three month and (sorry to be graphic) how my poo was that day (7-8 times). It was clear to come to a conclusion that fibre, fruits, spinach, chillies and ginger were causing the symptoms. I stopped these completely to give my gut a hard earned rest. I only started to have these food in little quantities from 2015. Now I can have everything. Gut needs to heal completely to start having good bacteria in the gut. Only then the symptoms will disappear and normal life resumes.

[@patcatherine]

Thank you Helen very much appreciated

[@saxophone2481]

Really enjoyed.. ur a great speaker really enjoyed very interesting. Appreciate ur time..x love ur mum videos.. from Galway xxx

[@MsHighpeaks]

The shake and vac mix is great for putting on to mattresses leave for an hour than hoover off.

[@lynnehamilton6579]

Also meant to say there’s a great app called flush which tells you all the toilets close to wherever you happen to be. I also have a Cant Wait card which I got from the bladder and bowel association. Have never needed t use it but it’s useful if you want to ask about using a toilet where there aren’t any public ones. Can also be added to the wallet I’m your phone. A radar key is also useful for disabled toilets that are kept locked.

[@Helenmaryjo]

Yes, I have both, thank you xx

[@willowgirl2635]

Great video, can relate to it very much.

[@alisonc4363]

Love the "recipes" and can't wait to try them. There IS a difference between baking soda and baking powder. I think I'll use baking soda, as it has great odor absorbing properties. Thanks so much for this topic!

[@Helenmaryjo]

Yes, I got confused, it's baking soda or bicarbonate of soda xx

[@heatherharris5129]

Thank you so much for talking about this and the wonderful ideas for both at home and to carry with us. You are right is is so embarrassing and public/work toilets are a nightmare. I will definitely be making the home made bombs and oily stuff. I feel so uncomfortable even talking about my problems, I won’t go to the doctors or get tested to find out exactly what the problem is and I have suffered most of my adult life and I am now 57 xxx

[@glendabathgate4036]

I sympathise Helen I have opposite with ulcerative colitis v painful at times but used to have ibs and find colitis more manageable although painful and draining but poor soul you x

[@clairemorash2547]

Thank you. Let me just say I can fully relate.

[@lisasafiullah8774]

You are not alone. I have Crohns luckily under control now. I have been having kefir most mornings and wonder if that helps. Thanks for the tips x

[@elizabetheadie267]

I’ve had IBS for years. If I am going out for the day I take 2 x dissolvable co-codamol in the morning, after I’ve visited the loo, I find the codeine slows down my “functions” and I can go out and about for the day. Obviously I can’t use it every day but find it helps for occasional use .

[@Helenmaryjo]

Yes, we all have to find what works for us. xx

[@ElaineUrsillo]

I too have this issue I take something called welchol it helps tremendously and thanks for speaking about it because so many suffer with it ,always interesting Thank you Helen!😘

[@lindamckenna-qe3ts]

I suffer with IBS, it’s so debilitating I can’t eat anything if I’m going out just in case I need a loo, sometimes I haven’t made it and it’s really bad and embarrassing. So I stick to water, but it can still happen.

[@Helenmaryjo]

That's so horrible, I'm sorry to hear how debilitating that must be. xx

[@alibolla]

Great tips on home made toilet freshener think most of us need ti!!! x

[@mozit8063]

Thankyou Helen for speaking about this. I have suffered with the same thing . Great idea to carry these oils, poo sprays etc and I bought one but going through Security at a Airport , they dont allow liquid things. So you have to put all these things in your suitcase. Wish they had something for travel that didnt say 'poo' on the front. !! It does affect travel as your always thinking , will the toilets be clean and will they have walls that come to the floor. Japan has the right idea for sure. Im sure lots of people have this. x

[@Helenmaryjo]

The small sprays will go through as hand luggage, I always take one on a flight xx

[@wendyomalley7698]

Brilliantly put! Sharing is caring Helen I’m sure lots of us ladies go through this!! Men just don’t seem to care! Thanks for the toilet bombs and poo spray👏👏👏

[@joanbrown329]

I have the same I been there thank you for this ❤

[@debraglew2506]

So you’re diet is the most important way to help your problem

[@shellygreen734]

I have IBS have suffered for years. Every thing and anything upsets me. I don't tend to eat if I'm going out.

[@rosewalsh4857]

Hi Helen ,very interested in your talk but could you tell the make of your vacuum cleaner,.

[@Helenmaryjo]

It's Ultenic, the link is in the video description box. xx

[@dorothyeaston3393]

Ps. I live in the country and have had to go behind a tree many a time! If you gotta go, you gotta go!😂