There are no right or wrong foods to eat with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), however individuals may find that certain foods trigger symptoms more than others. The main strategy to figuring out what to eat with IBS is to monitor what is consumed and keep track of any negative side effects that may occur. In addition, there are general dietary guidelines based on scientific research that may help to minimize side effects.
Soluble Fiber
Soluble fiber slows digestion and can be found in fruits and vegetables, white rice, nuts and seeds and is usually well tolerated in IBS patients. On the other hand, insoluble fiber--fiber that adds bulk to stool and is found in whole grains and dried beans--may worsen symptoms of IBS according to a 2009 study from the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association." Consumption of 25 to 38 g of fiber is recommended daily for heart health, so it is important to figure out which, if any, high-fiber foods aggravate IBS before eliminating all fiber from the diet. When adding fiber to the diet, drink plenty of water to avoid constipation, and add it gradually to prevent gas, bloating and cramping.
Fluid
Drinking eight to 10 cups of water or fluid every day will benefit people with IBS by maintaining hydration and promoting digestion. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, some patients with IBS are sensitive to caffeine, carbonation and alcohol so intake of coffee, tea, soda and alcoholic beverages should be monitored closely.
Yogurt and Probiotics
A survey of gastroenterologist in 2010 in the "Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology" showed that the majority of physicians supported the use of probiotics to treat gastrointestinal diseases like IBS. Probiotics are foods that contain bacteria that may benefit health. Yogurt contains the bacteria Lactobacillus and was the most commonly recommended probiotic.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is often used as a complementary medicine for a variety of conditions including nausea, cold, headaches and muscle pain. According to a 2008 article from the "British Medical Journal" using peppermint oil was associated with relief from symptoms of IBS. Additional research is needed, but experts at the Mayo Clinic say that peppermint oil naturally relaxes the intestines, which is why it may provide short-term relief from IBS symptoms.
Other Foods
The International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders states that certain foods may worsen symptoms of IBS in some individuals including, fried foods, beans, cabbage, legumes, cauliflower, broccoli, lentils, raisins, brussel sprouts, onions and bagels.
References
- "British Medical Journal;" Effect of fiber, antispasmodics and peppermint oil in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis; AC Ford, et al; November 2008
- International Foundation of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
- "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
- "Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology"; Probiotics as therapy in gastroenterology: a study of physician opinions and recommendations; MD Williams, CY Ha, MA Ciorba; March 2010.
- Mayo Clinic
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