Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Diet Relationship

It is usually accepted that diet does not cause Irritable Bowel Syndrome. However, certain foods can exacerbate the condition. Much like an allergic reaction, irritable bowel syndrome symptoms have been known to appear due to the consumption of certain food items.

Foods To Be Avoided

Fatty foods and oils, dairy products like milk, butter, and ice cream, and artificial sweeteners should be consumed minimally. Caffeine and carbonated drinks should be consumed sparingly as well.

The common culprit is the alcohol; be sure to cut back on the amount you “down” every night, if you are a heavy drinker. All these food products can increase the chances for an onset of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.

Food That Prevent Irritable bowel Syndrome

While it is true that certain types of food make IBS harder to deal with, other types help you to cope with the irritable bowel syndrome. Fiber-rich food for instance, keeps constipation to a minimum.

Some good examples are fruits like apples, peaches, and pineapples. Vegetables like broccoli and carrots are excellent as well. Try the whole-grain versions, if you regularly consume wheat products.

Fiber Supplements

You might also consider using a fiber supplement, especially if you are not the type who eats fruits and vegetables regularly. Fiber works on both constipation and diarrhea.

Fiber makes it easier to pass, if your stool is dry and hard; it gives the stool more consistency if you have diarrhea. Do not make the mistake of taking on a very high dosage quickly, if you do decide to use a supplement.

Start with a small amount then gradually increase the amounts. This will give your body time to adjust to the supplement, and therefore avoid any unpleasant side effects. You should remember to drink plenty of water whenever you take fiber supplements.

Other Supplements

Calcium supplements and magnesium supplements are other supplements you might look into. Calcium is a mineral supplement which can naturally slow down the bowels. It is ideal for those who suffer from diarrhea. On the other hand, Magnesium helps people suffering from constipation.

Eating large amounts of food in one sitting may also cause an onset of
irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. You might try to eat five to six smaller meals instead of eating three large meals a day. If you can, eat less food as well. It eases the strain on your digestive system.

Food Journal

It would help if you started a food journal. The purpose of the journal is to help you identify the food items that precede the onset of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms; then you can avoid them. You can use this journal to record the food you eat daily.

Talk To Nutritionist

Talk to a nutritionist, if you are unable to pinpoint the “trigger” foods on your own. A nutritionist will help you take a more comprehensive view of your diet, and most probably help you to identify the offending foods.

Your diet affects your health directly, so you should do your utmost to eat the best and most nutritious food you can afford. With balanced diet, regular exercise, and maybe even a little bit of positive thinking, even something like irritable bowel syndrome can be overcome.