According to the website gicare.com, irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS is one of the most common disorders of the lower digestive tract or colon. Common symptoms of IBS include cramping, abdominal pain and bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. Since signs and symptoms of IBS vary from person to person, no specific diet can be recommended.
Significance
No cure exists for IBS, only symptom relief. Although IBS causes pain and discomfort, it does not irreversibly damage the colon, according to the website Mayo Clinic. Emotional stress, anxiety and poor diet can trigger IBS so it is possible that symptoms can be controlled by medicines or by making diet, lifestyle and stress management changes.
Recommended Foods
A diet high in soluble fiber is recommended for the IBS sufferer as increased fiber can help produce softer stools. This can make it easier to pass stool through the colon and can help prevent constipation. Fiber should be gradually added or increased in the diet as some people with IBS may be more sensitive to fiber's effects and may experience abdominal discomfort, gas or bloating. Soluble fiber can be found in foods such as whole grain or whole wheat breads, cereals, pastas and rice. Beans, whole or raw fruits and vegetables also contain fiber. The skin on the fruit or vegetable contains the most fiber, so eat the actual raw fruit or vegetable, as opposed to fruit juice or cooked or canned fruits and vegetables.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods and drinks may trigger or worsen symptoms of IBS by stimulating the intestines. These foods can include fatty or deep-fried foods, chocolate, alcohol and caffeinated or carbonated beverages. Certain sugar-free sweeteners such as sorbitol or mannitol may also cause symptoms of IBS if consumed in excess. Certain foods may also cause increased gas such as beans, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and chewing gum; consume these foods with caution.
Use Dairy Products with Caution
During initial diagnosis of IBS, a doctor may recommend a lactose-free diet for two weeks to evaluate for possible lactase deficiency or intolerance to lactose that may produce symptoms similar to IBS. Use dairy products with caution as they can cause diarrhea in some people with IBS. If lactose intolerance is determined, lactose-free dairy products are available as a source of protein, calcium and other vitamins and minerals. Yogurt can also be used in place of some dairy products as it contains a lower lactose content. An enzyme product can also be used to help digest lactose. Consuming small amounts of milk products such as milk in cereal may be tolerated better.
Tips
Since symptoms of IBS vary from person to person it may be helpful to keep a food diary of foods that trigger symptoms of IBS. If it is unknown as to what type of reaction foods may cause, try the food in a small amount at first to see if symptoms arise. Larger meals may also be poorly tolerated in people with IBS. Consuming smaller more frequent meals throughout the day may be better tolerated than three larger meals. Eating at regularly scheduled intervals may also help with symptoms. Also try not to skip meals and eat in a relaxed atmosphere.
