What is IBS?
IBS is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. The symptoms of IBS can vary from person to person, but they typically include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. These symptoms can be triggered by a number of factors, including stress, hormonal changes, and certain foods.
IBS Symptoms
According to studies which suggest that about 12 percent of people in the United States have IBS, symptoms as follows
- abdominal cramping and discomfort
- Bloating, Gas
- Constipation – Hard or lumpy stools
- Diarrhea – loose or watery stool
- Alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation
- Bowel movements that may feel uncontrollably urgent, partial or difficult to pass
- Clear or white mucus with the stool.
The standard diagnostic guideline for IBS, called the Rome IV criteria, requires that you have these symptoms for at least one day a week in the last three months & those symptoms started at least six months prior.
Ibs Diet
People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may notice unpleasant digestive symptoms caused by certain foods. Poor gut health can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, IBS and constipation.
The specific foods that cause IBS differ from person to person, so it is impossible to make a list of foods to avoid.
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Ibs What Foods To Avoid
1)Insoluble fiber
Insoluble fiber, such as wheat bran, whole wheat flour, Nuts, Beans, Vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, and potatoes may make the pain and bloating worse.
2)Gluten
Gluten, a group of proteins found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley, can cause problems for some people with IBS. Some people have a severe immune reaction to gluten called as celiac disease.
3)Processed foods
Chips, premade frozen meals, processed meats, deep-fried food, etc.
4)Caffeinated drinks
Tea, coffee and caffeinated energy drinks can trigger IBS.
5)Fried foods
French fries and other fried foods.
6)FODMAPs
“FODMAP” is an acronym that stands for-
Fermentable
Oligosaccharides
Disaccharides
Monosaccharides
And
Polyols
FODMAPs are foods that contain carbohydrates that are difficult to digest. Because of their poor absorption, they irritate the small intestine and bring more water into the intestine.
High-FODMAP foods to avoid
- Vegetables- Cauliflower, Beans, Mushrooms, Artichokes, Garlic, Asparagus, Cabbage,
- Onions and Peas.
- Dairy products with lactose- Milk, Cheese, Ice cream & Yogurt.
- Fruit and fruit juices from apples, apricots, blackberries, cherries, mango, nectarines, pears, peaches, plums and watermelons.
- Wheat, Rye products and baked goods, including bread, cereals, and pasta.
- Candy and gum contain sweeteners- Containing maltitol, mannitol, sorbitol, and xylitol.
- Honey and high-fructose corn syrup.
- Legumes and lentils.
- Cashews and pistachios.
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7)Chocolate
Chocolate bars and sweets made with chocolate can stimulate IBS because they are often high in sugar and fat, and often contain lactose and caffeine. Some people get constipated after eating chocolate.
8)Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages are a common trigger factor for people with IBS. This can lead to dehydration(fluid loss in body), which can affect digestion. Beer is a particularly risky choice because it often contains gluten. Wine and mixed drinks can contain significant amounts of sugar.
9)Garlic and Onions
What To Eat With IBS Attack?
Dealing with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be a difficult and painful experience, especially during an IBS attack. The good news is that there are certain foods that can help alleviate the symptoms of IBS and make an attack more manageable.
Low-FODMAP Diet
Many doctors recommend that IBS patients should follow a low-FODMAP diet. This diet focuses on limiting certain foods high in carbohydrates. Foods containing FODMAPs are not easily absorbed by the small intestine. They may cause gas, bloating, and stomach pain. Foods with low FODMAP include:
- Lactose-free dairy products such as lactose-free milk and cheese
- Gluten-free products such as rice, quinoa, and gluten-free bread and pasta
- Fruits such as bananas, blueberries, and strawberries
- Vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, and zucchini
- Proteins such as chicken, fish, and tofu
- Sweeteners such as maple syrup and stevia
It is important to note that a low FODMAP diet is not meant to be a long-term solution for managing IBS symptoms. It should only be followed for a short period of time under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
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Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet, but certain ones can trigger IBS symptoms during an attack. Here are some fruits and vegetables that are safe to eat during an IBS attack:
- Bananas: Bananas can help alleviate diarrhea and constipation.
- Blueberries: Blueberries can help reduce inflammation in the gut.
- Carrots: Carrots can help promote healthy digestion.
- Cucumbers: Cucumbers can help reduce bloating and inflammation.
- Zucchini: Zucchini can help regulate bowel movements.
Other Tips for Managing IBS During an Attack
In addition to following a low FODMAP diet and incorporating safe fruits and vegetables, there are other things you can do to manage IBS symptoms during an attack:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other fluids to help prevent dehydration.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol: These can irritate the digestive system and make symptoms worse.
- Manage stress: Stress can trigger IBS symptoms, so try to find ways to
Drugs That Can Trigger IBS
Some drugs can trigger constipation or diarrhea. People with IBS may experience the trigger with following
*Antibiotics
*Some antidepressants
*Medicine made with sorbitol, such as cough syrup.
Informative article