According to a 2009 study conducted by the University of North Carolina School Of Medicine, 25 percent of irritable bowel syndrome patients experience diet associated symptoms. The relationship between food and irritable bowel syndrome, also called IBS, diarrhea, pain, gas and bloating varies from person to person. However, certain foods have a reputation for soothing, reducing or preventing IBS symptoms. Adjusting your eating to include more IBS friendly foods may be worthwhile to include as a part of your daily diet regimen.
Soluble Fiber
Soluble fiber may benefit IBS patients as it slows digestion and dissolves in water. It is found in vegetables, fruits, oatmeal, nuts, seeds, white rice and certain grains, according to MayoClinic.com. When shopping for products with soluble fiber, do not mistake it for insoluble fiber, which speeds up digestion and adds bulk to your stool. Insoluble fiber is primarily found in dried beans, popcorn and whole grains. As a safety measure, slowly add soluble fiber to your diet, as too much at once can promote cramping, bloating and gas.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains substantial amounts of probiotics or healthy bacteria which includes beneficial live microorganisms. Lactobacillus, a primary bacterium in yogurt, may also reduce irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. According to MayoClinic.com, probiotics such as yogurt can decrease IBS associated symptoms such as constipation, pain, gas and diarrhea.
Low-Fat Foods
High-fat foods can irritate IBS symptoms, notes the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Foods with trans fats such as crackers, cakes, French fries, cookies, donuts, onion rings, margarine and processed foods, should be limited. As a result, consume vegetables, fruits, fish, chicken breast, soy, shellfish, lean pork and beef and other low-fat foods. Avoid deep-frying these foods and others that have been cooked in butter, oil, cheese and cream.
Fluid
It is recommended that irritable bowel syndrome patients consume at least eight cups of water daily to avoid constipation and promote hydration, according to the American Dietetic Association. Alcohol, caffeine and carbonated drinks may worsen IBS symptoms. As a result, IBS patients should be cautious when consuming beer, coffee, tea, milk and soda.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Irritable bowel syndrome
- American Dietetic Association: Irritable bowel syndrome
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: What I need to know about irritable bowel syndrome
- University of Maryland Medical Center : Irritable bowel syndrome
- "Journal of the American Dietetic Association"; The role of diet in symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in adults: a narrative review; W.D. Heizer, S. Southern, S. McGovern; July 2009
