Dietary Insights For IBS

IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is a common disorder affecting the intestines. Common symptoms include stomach pain, bloating, gas, cramping and certain abnormalities in bowel habits. Constipation is very common among some people who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome while others tend to experience diarrhea. Still others experience both.
Eating fiber rich food can help control IBS symptoms, however it should be introduced to the body little by little since it may trigger IBS symptoms.

Fiber-Rich Foods and Plenty of Fluids

You can find fiber in grains particularly bran, cereals, fruits, whole-grain breads and vegetables. Similarly there are foods that are high in soluble fibers like peas, beans and oats that may help control constipation and diarrhea.

A word of advice for IBS patients: Always read food labels especially when purchasing cereals and breads make sure that they are made from whole-grain or whole-wheat. Similarly for meat dishes make sure that you add fibers like kidney beans, oatmeal, bran pinto beans, black-eyed peas and kidney beans. If you are to purchase ready to eat cereals make sure that it contain at least five grams of fibers.

In case of gas pain you may also purchase over the counter anti-gas pills. And of course don't forget to drink lots of fluids. If you can follow the recommended eight glasses of liquid per day then so much the better. In terms of fluids you may take in water, fruit juices and even decaf drinks.

Likewise, take note of the instances where you usually experience IBS symptoms. Keep a record of the food that you take in during that time and try not to eat them again. If you can keep a food diary to help you in controlling your IBS then do so.

If you are used to eating large servings of foods per meal then divide it into smaller meals instead. Drinking multi-vitamins as well as mineral supplement especially those with one hundred percent US prescribed (RDI or recommended daily intake) may also help in controlling IBS. But just like any type of medication it is important that you consult your doctor or your dietitian before taking in any medication. Same when taking in fiber supplement it is vital that you consult a doctor.

To avoid eating more try to eat your food slowly to digest the food well. Try to enjoy your food. And also refrain from drinking caffeinated and alcoholic beverages since they may cause diarrhea.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Flare-ups
IBS flare-ups calls for a low-fiber/low residue diet especially if it involves diarrhea. There are certain types of foods that tend to loosen up stools. Try to avoid these types of foods especially if you have diarrhea.

You may try to choose a different type of food or you may even adjust food temperature to help you in relieving diarrhea. These suggestions are not guaranteed to work in the same way for all IBS patients. Some may find relief while others may not. Just to be sure try to consult your doctors always before trying out some new methods to control your IBS symptoms.