Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, affects between 5 and 20 percent of children, states KidsHealth.org. Symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain or discomfort, intestinal gas and bloating and bouts of frequent diarrhea, constipation or both. While diet does not cause IBS, what your child eats may help IBS symptoms or make them worse. Meeting with a dietitian may help you plan the best IBS diet for your child.
Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Foods high in fiber may help the colon operate more smoothly. Consuming vegetables and fruits high in fiber is appropriate for an IBS diet. Irritable bowel syndrome may cause intestinal spasms, which lead to cramping and diarrhea. Alternately the intestine may not absorb enough water while processing food, resulting in constipation. A high-fiber diet may distend the colon slightly, preventing spasms and diarrhea. Fiber may also allow stool to retain water, preventing constipation.
Avoid Dairy
Different foods may act as triggers for your child's IBS symptoms. Dairy products are a common trigger that may cause diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. Your child's body may not be able to digest sugars found in milk and milk products, including milk, ice cream, cream cheese, cheeses and whipped toppings. Yogurt may be suitable, however, as it contains natural enzymes to help dairy sugar digestion. Dairy products provide needed calcium for your child's growth, so if you are restricting dairy, make sure your child is receiving adequate calcium from supplements or other dietary measures, with your physician's approval.
Eat Whole Grain
Whole grains are sources of fiber. Consider adding whole grains to your child's diet by offering whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, brown rice instead of white rice and crackers or snacks made from whole grain. Whole grain breakfast cereals may be an easy way to introduce fiber into your child's diet. Meet with your child's physician to discuss a high-fiber diet. Introducing too much fiber in the diet all at once may increase intestinal gas, bloating and discomfort. Limiting the introduction of fibrous foods may help your child adjust more easily.
Avoid Fats and Caffeine
Fats found in fried and high-fat foods are a common trigger for abdominal pain and diarrhea with IBS. Limit high-fat foods like French fries or fried chicken in your child's diet to see if IBS symptoms improve. Caffeinated products like chocolate and sodas may increase intestinal spasms; limiting caffeinated products may also help reduce or prevent your child's IBS symptoms.
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