Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal disorder with unknown causes. Symptoms include abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, bloating and gas. Researchers from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine reviewed the role of diet in IBS and published their findings in 2009 in the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association" (JADA). According to their report, 25 percent of people with IBS may experience worsened symptoms associated with their diet. Dietary recommendations for IBS are flexible according to personal preference; however, various foods have been identified that may alleviate or exacerbate symptoms.
Fiber
There are two types of fiber---soluble and insoluble. In the 2009 JADA study, soluble fiber alleviated constipation associated with IBS. Soluble fiber is in fruits, vegetables, white rice, pasta, cornmeal, nuts and seeds and slows digestion. The Mayo Clinic recommends adding it to the diet gradually to avoid gas, bloating and constipation. Insoluble fiber may actually worsen IBS symptoms and should be limited until an individual is aware of how they will respond. Insoluble fiber is in foods like whole grains, dried beans and popcorn.
Fluids
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), alcoholic beverages and beverages that are caffeinated or carbonated like coffee, tea and soda should be limited. The Mayo Clinic advocates drinking water as the best fluid for IBS, and says that alcohol and caffeine can cause diarrhea, while carbonation can produce gas.
Probiotics
Findings of a study that looked at the opinions of physicians on the use of probiotics in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders were published in 2010 in the "Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology." Researchers from the Saint Louis University School of Medicine found that most physicians recommended probiotics for IBS. Probiotics are live bacteria, and according to the Mayo Clinic, "good bacteria" from probiotics may help relieve IBS symptoms. Common foods containing probiotics are yogurt, miso, tempeh, cheese and some juices and soy beverages.
Low Fat vs. High Fat Foods
The International Foundation of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders say that high-fat meals can cause cramping and diarrhea in IBS. They encourage individuals with IBS to choose low-fat foods like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, poultry, fish and non-fat dairy products to minimize IBS symptoms.
Other Foods
Other foods listed by the Mayo Clinic that may worsen IBS symptoms include chocolate, artificial sweeteners, chewing gum and gas-producing foods like cabbage, cauliflower, beans and broccoli. Individuals who have IBS and are also lactose intolerant should eat lactose-free foods like yogurt, or take a supplement that helps breakdown lactose.
References
- International Foundation of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: IBS Diet
- "Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology"; Probiotics as therapy in gastroenterology: a study of physician opinions and recommendations; MD Williams, CY Ha, MA Ciorba; March 2010
- "Journal of the American Dietetic Association"; The role of diet in symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in adults: a narrative review; WD Heizer, S Southern, S McGovern; July 2009.
- Mayo Clinic: Irritable bowel syndrome
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: What I Need To Know About Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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