Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a condition characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. In some people, the diarrhea and constipation may even present at the same time. Although IBS can bring on great discomfort, following a strict diet can help with the management of IBS' uncomfortable symptoms.
Causes and Symptoms
Researchers have not yet discovered what makes some prone to IBS. One theory is that if you suffer from IBS, you have a colon and/or an intestine that is particularly sensitive to certain foods or to excess stress. Another theory is that your body's immune system may be involved. Symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, bloating and general discomfort. Symptoms can vary from person to person: some develop chronic diarrhea, while others develop chronic constipation. In some cases, people can experience both, alternating from lose stools to severe constipation. Symptoms may also be transient or chronic.
Nutritional Therapy for IBS
Careful eating reduces IBS symptoms; simple changes in your diet can help you relieve your symptoms. It is important to remember that your body will not react to these changes immediately, so be patient. Also, consult a registered dietitian so that you can be sure you are getting enough nutrients and calories. Another important part of your nutritional therapy is to drink plenty of liquids and fluids every day. You may be losing excess water if you have diarrhea, and if you have constipation, it can help lubricate your stools and make them easier to pass. To complement your nutritional therapy, exercise regularly. An active body stimulates the normal rhythmic movements of your intestine and can also help get rid of gas.
Diet Maintenance
Strict diets can be hard to maintain; at times, once you start feeling better, you might want to go off-diet and try new things. However, it is important to remember that IBS is a chronic condition that comes and goes. Following a strict diet can help you be symptom-free in the long-term. One thing you can try is to maintain a food/symptom journal. That way, you can write down the foods that you tolerate well, and those that cause diarrhea, constipation or general discomfort and indigestion.
What to Avoid
Avoid any foods high in fat because fat can cause bloating, gas and worsen diarrhea, as fat is harder to absorb. High-fat foods include whole milk, heavy creams, and whole-milk cheeses. Also, avoid marbled or fatty cuts of meat, poultry, fish or deli cuts of meat. When it comes to grains, you should monitor which ones you can tolerate well and avoid those you don't. If you are experiencing diarrhea, it might be a good idea to avoid foods very high in fiber such as whole wheat bagels or rolls. With vegetables, remember that, in general, vegetable sprouts like cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower tend to cause gas and discomfort. Avoid prunes and prune juices, as these may worsen your abdominal pain and diarrhea. If you avoid these groups of foods, you should find that your symptoms will become less and less severe.
