Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a chronic condition that causes abdominal pain, bloating, cramps, constipation and diarrhea but does not damage the intestines or lead to more serious disease. IBS may affect as many as one in five Americans, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC. For most people IBS is not disabling. Many IBS sufferers can control their symptoms with a combination of diet and lifestyle changes and medication.
Fiber
Adding fiber to your diet may reduce some symptoms, particularly constipation, though some people find that it aggravates their pain or diarrhea, reports MayoClinic.com. Fiber can expand your colon, which may reduce the intestinal spasms that cause your IBS symptoms. Whole grain breads, cereals and pastas, beans, fruits and vegetables are good sources of fiber. Adding fiber to your diet may cause some gas and bloating, especially at first, if you are not used to it. To prevent this problem, gradually increase your fiber intake so your body can adjust.
Problem Foods
Foods don't cause IBS but some people find that certain foods aggravate their symptoms and these foods may vary from person to person. You may want to keep a food journal that tracks what you eat and any symptoms you have so you can identify any problem foods. Dairy foods are a common problem because some people are lactose intolerant, meaning they can't properly digest the milk sugar lactose. Other potential problem foods are coffee, tea, soda and alcohol.
Fluids
Drinking six to eight glasses a day of plain water can help ease symptoms because it helps your intestines function better. Replace lost fluids if you have diarrhea.
Eating Tips
Eating large meals may cause cramps and diarrhea if you have IBS, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. If you have these symptoms, you might want to experiment with eating less at meals, adding small snacks between meals if you feel hungry, to see if that improves your symptoms. You could also try switching from three large meals a day to six smaller ones to see if that helps. It's also a good idea to eat on a regular schedule spread throughout the day and avoid skipping meals. Avoid chewing gum or eating quickly, as that can cause you to swallow air, which causes gas and may aggravate your symptoms. Changing your diet to lower your fat intake and increasing your intake of grains, bread, fruits and vegetables, may also help.
