(Natural News) Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common, chronic disorder of the large intestine that affects 10 to 15 percent of the world's population. Currently, there is no known cure for IBS, so treatments usually focus on relieving the symptoms. Managing this condition typically entails studying one's dietary habits, taking over-the-counter medication, and reducing stress. However, researchers from the University of Sheffield have discovered that supplementing with vitamin D may be effective in controlling the condition's more painful symptoms.

In order to come to this conclusion, the investigative team analyzed seven studies linking vitamin D deficiency with IBS: three were randomized controlled trials, while the remaining four were observational studies. Past research has correlated low vitamin D levels with the increased chance of acquiring various gastrointestinal conditions, including colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. Inquiries focusing on the potential association between IBS and vitamin D deficiency is severely limited, however.

"The vitamin D/IBS link wasn't spotted by medics or scientists. It came from patients," said study co-author Bernard M. Corfe.

Although small in number, the studies that examined the vitamin D and IBS connection have all pointed towards said connection's existence.

For instance, a study that involved 1,000 IBS patients revealed that as much as 75 percent of the population were suffering from inadequate amounts of vitamin D. By contrast, the other studies showed that IBS patients who'd dosed up on vitamin D were able to deal with their symptoms. One trial revealed that great amounts of vitamin D were able to normalize a woman's bowel habits, subsequently easing the anxiety and depression brought on by her ailment. Yet another study that consisted of assessing 37 blogs of IBS patients found that as much as 70 percent of the patients benefited from vitamin D supplementation.

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Moreover, analyses affirmed the prevalence and consistency of vitamin D deficiency among IBS patients throughout the world. "This study looked at all research reported throughout the world and found the deficiency was consistent irrespective of latitude or geography," Corfe told HealthLine.com.

As for why vitamin D deficiency frequently occurs in IBS patients, the answer remains unknown. One theory has suggested that a person's daily habits and diet may influence how much or how little vitamin D they get everyday. (Related: What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome & How Can It be Treated Naturally?)