According to a July 2009 article from the Journal of the American Dietetic Association (JADA), 25 percent of patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a digestive disorder, experience symptoms associated with their diet. There have been many studies regarding IBS and there are general dietary recommendations. However, causes and symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, bloating and gas appear to be specific to each individual.
Fiber
There are two types of fiber---soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and slows digestion. It is mainly found in fruits and vegetables, but is also in white rice, oatmeal, nuts, seeds and certain grains. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve and adds bulk to stool causing it to move more quickly through the intestines. According to the 2009 JADA article, soluble fiber may be more beneficial than insoluble fiber, which worsens symptoms in some cases of IBS. Limit or avoid whole grains, popcorn, dried beans and other foods high in insoluble fiber until it is clear your body responds. Both types of fiber benefit heart disease, and should be added to the diet gradually. Too much fiber all at once can cause gas, cramping and bloating.
Fluid
According to the American Dietetic Association, eight to 10 cups of water or fluid a day is extremely important for people with IBS to stay hydrated, and avoid constipation by moving fiber through the body. Dairy products, alcohol, caffeine and carbonation worsen symptoms in certain individuals, so limit or avoid beverages like milk, coffee, tea, beer and soda to avoid exacerbating IBS symptoms.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a probiotic, a food containing live microorganisms that can benefit health, is rich in the bacteria "Lactobacillus", which may ease IBS symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, some research has shown that probiotics like yogurt can decrease gas, pain and bloating associated with IBS, and may also help with diarrhea and constipation.
Other Foods
Various foods and dietary supplements are being studied to figure out their role in either improving or worsening the symptoms of IBS. In the July 2009 JADA article artificial sugars appeared to aggravate symptoms of IBS, but daily use of peppermint oil seemed to relieve symptoms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center other supplements that have been used to manage IBS include ground flaxseed and Chinese herbs. Keep a food diary to record what is eaten and what symptoms, if any, are associated with certain foods.
References
- American Dietetic Association
- "Journal of the American Dietetic Association"; The role of diet in symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in adults: a narrative review; WD Heizer, S Southern, S McGovern; July 2009.
- Mayo Clinic
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
- University of Maryland Medical Center
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