Worst Foods for IBS

IBS, otherwise known as irritable bowel syndrome, is a chronic condition affecting the large intestine. In people with IBS, food does not travel through the large intestine at the proper speed, which can cause constipation, diarrhea, bloating, gas, abdominal pain and cramping. To avoid symptoms it may be necessary to eliminate problematic foods from your diet. Your doctor can assist with instituting dietary changes that are appropriate for you.

Caffeine

One of the triggers of IBS symptoms is caffeine. Avoid caffeinated beverages such as coffee and soda. Since some teas also contain caffeine, you should watch out for those as well. Chocolate is another known source of caffeine that you should avoid if you experience symptoms when consuming it. Additionally, be cautious with medications containing caffeine. If you find that you experience symptoms after taking your medication, talk with your doctor about alternative medication options.

Sweeteners

The bowel has difficulty absorbing certain types of sugar. When this happens, you may experience cramping and diarrhea. Avoid products that contain sorbitol and fructose. Sorbitol is a sweetener most often found in dietetic foods, candies and gums. Fructose, which is a natural sugar found in honey and fruit, is another sweetener added to some food items. Read food labels carefully and avoid these sweeteners if they do not agree with you.

Fatty Foods

Fried foods are another culprit that commonly causes IBS symptoms to flare. Choose cooking methods such as broiling or baking over frying. Furthermore, avoid fatty foods in general if they cause you difficulty.

Fiber

Foods containing fiber are necessary to avoid constipation but can also make IBS symptoms worse. Increase the fiber in your diet gradually over several weeks. Try whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans in very small amounts. If you are unable to tolerate these foods, talk to your doctor. In some cases, limiting dietary fiber and taking a fiber supplement is the best approach.

Dairy

If you have trouble consuming dairy products, try eating them in very small quantities or combine small amounts with other foods. If dairy products continue to cause symptoms, you may need to eliminate them. If so, talk to your doctor about alternate sources of protein, calcium and B vitamins.