Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a disorder that occurs when the large intestine becomes irritated and inflamed. The symptoms may include abdominal cramping or pain, intestinal gas, constipation or diarrhea. About 20 percent of adult Americans suffer from IBS and women are at higher risk than men, according to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse. IBS may become debilitating in serious cases. However, the Clearinghouse indicates that dietary changes are often very helpful in alleviating the symptoms. Patients should make dietary changes gradually and should always consult a doctor if symptoms worsen.
Elimate Dairy Products
Often particular foods cause symptoms of IBS. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends a patient should keep a diet diary to identify possible irritating foods. Often, milk products worsen the symptoms of IBS, especially in a patient who has difficulty digesting milk sugar, or lactose. For these patients, eliminating dairy products may be very helpful. Since yogurt contains bacteria that digest lactose, replacing milk with yogurt may be very helpful when symptoms worsen after a meal containing dairy products.
Increase Dietary Fiber
Increasing the amount of fiber in the diet may help alleviate the symptoms of IBS, especially in patients who experience constipation. According to the National Digestive Diseases Clearinghouse, a high-fiber diet distends the colon; this may prevent painful spasms. The diet should contain enough fiber to produce a soft stool that passes easily during a bowel movement. Whole grain foods and cereals are good choices, as are fresh vegetables and fruits. Foods high is soluble fiber such as apples, beans and citrus fruits are also good additions to the diet.
Eat Small Frequent Meals
In a paper published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association in 2009, Dr. W. Heitzer et al concluded that a large meal may cause IBS symptoms. Eating small, frequent meals and drinking lots of water may help prevent cramping, bloating and diarrhea. Food should be eaten slowly and in small amounts at a single meal. Frequent snacks may also be also helpful and these should include fresh fruits and vegetables.
References
- Med Line Plus: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- MayoClinic.com: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- "The Role of Diet in Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Adults: A Narrative Review" by Heitzer, W. et al; Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 2009.
