A study from Cedars-Sinai suggests that gravity may play a key role in causing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), one of the most common digestive disorders in the world. Scientists propose that some people’s bodies struggle to manage gravity’s pull, leading to IBS symptoms such as stomach pain, cramping, bloating, and digestive issues.
IBS affects up to 10% of the global population, but doctors have never fully understood why it develops. Over the years, several theories have tried to explain it. Some researchers believe IBS is a gut-brain interaction disorder, meaning the nervous system and digestive system do not communicate properly.
Others think it is linked to bacterial imbalances in the gut, problems with food digestion, abnormal serotonin levels, or a malfunctioning autonomic nervous system.
The new theory focuses on how the body manages gravity. The researchers suggest that IBS may happen when the intestines, spine, heart, nerves, and brain struggle to handle the constant downward pull of gravity.
If these systems fail to work properly, it could lead to IBS symptoms and other problems like lightheadedness, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and back pain.
Gravity may also compress the spine and shift organs downward, affecting their normal function. The body has support structures to keep everything in place, but if they weaken, it could lead to digestive issues and bacterial overgrowth in the gut, both of which are linked to IBS.
This theory might explain why exercise and physical therapyhelp many IBS patients—these treatments strengthen the body’s support systems, helping it better manage gravity’s effects.
Another key factor could be serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in digestion, mood, and circulation. The researchers suggest that serotonin may have evolved to help the body fight gravity—helping with balance, blood flow, and digestion.
A lack of serotonin could weaken the body’s ability to manage gravity, leading to IBS symptoms and other health issues.
While this gravity-based theory is new, it could open doors to new ways of treating IBS. More research is needed to test whether treatments focused on body support, posture, and movement could help relieve symptoms.
The study, led by Brennan Spiegel and his team, was published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology.
If you care about gut health, please read studies about how junk food harms your gut health, and how probiotics can protect gut health.
For more information about health, please see recent studies about how fiber affects weight loss and your overall health, and results showing why a glass of red wine is good for your gut.
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