Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) commonly affects people in their twenties, and is more prevalent in women than men. IBS is also known as irritable colon, functional bowel syndrome, spastic colon, and spastic bowel. According to FamilyDoctor.org, IBS is a common intestinal problem. In people with IBS, the intestines either work too hard or not hard enough, causing food to move too quickly or too slowly through the intestines. In treating IBS, choosing the right diet is important, as it is the first step to symptom relief. Dietary recommendations for IBS vary based on the cause of the problem.
Lactose-Free Diet
According to Family Doctor.org, milk and other dairy products may cause IBS. This condition is known as lactose intolerance. Symptoms of lactose intolerance are similar to other forms of IBS, and include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Avoiding dairy products altogether is the best way to see if symptoms are due to lactose intolerance. If your symptoms subside when not consuming dairy products, then it is important to adhere to a lactose-free diet.
Fructose-Reduced Diet
Some people experience symptoms of IBS after eating foods that contain fructose. According to the University of Iowa, foods and drinks with high-fructose corn syrup have been known to cause problems for people with IBS. This condition, also known as fructose intolerance, may be caused by consuming soft drinks and chocolate. Fruits and vegetables can also be a problem if they are eaten in large quantities. A fructose-reduced diet may offer great relief to people living with IBS due to fructose intolerance.
Probiotic Diet
According to the Mayo Clinic, some research indicates that probiotics can decrease symptoms of IBS, including gas, pain, and bloating. In addition, probiotics may be helpful in decreasing the frequency of stools in people with IBS who have diarrhea. Probiotics are dietary supplements or foods that contain helpful bacteria similar to that found in the intestinal tract. Probiotic foods include yogurt, milk, miso, soy drinks, and some juices.
High-Fiber Diet
In treating IBS, a high-fiber diet is often prescribed by a doctor. A high-fiber diet includes abundant fruits and vegetables. Yogurt, nuts and seeds are also good sources of fiber. When increasing fiber in the diet, care must be taken to drink more water, and to avoid too rapid, excessive fiber intake as it may actually cause gas and bloating. Slowly increasing fiber is best for overall digestion and absorption of foods. Also, adding a variety of fiber foods is recommended, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
