I think you may be right. My GI was asking me if my stomach (as opposed to intestinal tract) felt better after I ate. I don't have an ulcer but do have gastritis, hiatal hernia, GERD. I really couldn't answer that as I was in such a flare with huge, huge bloat plus the cramps and all. But, I have this gnawing hunger and sometimes nausea. That is relieved by eating.I've also had my gallbladder out. This hunger thing has occurred since then. Ditto with the gastritis, hh and stuff. I've gained 25 pounds in the last 4 years.
Seems like we IBSers are of two camps. The ones that can't gain weight and the ones that can't seem to lose it. At first I thought I was the only fat IBSer out there - I'm fairly new to the boards - but as I continue reading I see there are others. I got the books, CDs, and other stuff first. I've never used a message board, but my sister suggested it and it has been very helpful. Nice to know I am not alone and others struggle with the same issues.