Packaged Food ReviewHealthy Eating GuidelinesSuper FoodsHealth and NutritionNutrition 101Weightloss DietNutrition Newsletter

Buzz this

Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS Diet

Written by Gloria Tsang, RD of HealthCastle.com
Published in December 2005.

(HealthCastle.com) Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS is more prevalent than we think. The primary symptom of IBS is abdominal pain and cramp after eating - resulting in diarrhea, constipation, gas or bloating. Some may find mucous in the feces. These symptoms usually persist for at least 90 days before an IBS diagnosis is considered. Most people only have mild symptoms, and fortunately, a proper diet can usually minimize symptoms.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS Diet and Nutrition

  • Eat small frequent meals
  • Drink lots of fluid (8 - 10 servings daily)
  • Eat a high fiber diet. Click here for a list of high fiber foods. Your doctor may also suggest laxative with psyllium to alleviate constipation or reduce diarrhea
  • A low fat diet will also help to decrease contractions of the intestines right after meals
  • Limit caffeine, alcohol and sorbitol (a type of sweetener) as these may exacerbate symptoms. Click here for a list of food products containing sorbitol
  • Exclude gas-producing foods such as cabbage-family vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and brussels sprouts), dried peas and lentils, onions and chives, peppers and carbonated drinks
  • Avoid chewing gum as more air may be swallowed
  • If you have diarrhea right after eating dairy, you are probably only lactose intolerance.
  • Some patients find peppermint helpful. Peppermint is a natural anti-spasmodic that relaxes smooth muscles in the intestines. If you are taking peppermint supplements, try the enteric coated capsules as they may cause heartburn. Be sure to discuss with your doctor before taking any herbal supplements.

ibs diet nutritionOrganizations:

Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

Advertisement





| Print Page | Bookmark and Share | nutrition tips Feed

Want to discuss nutrition topics? Go to our Facebook Page or Forum.




Advertisement







HONcode accreditation seal.
Categories:
Nutrition 101 | Healthy Eating | Super Foods | Podcast | Food & Nutrition | Nutrition & Health | Weight & Diet
Member Area:
Login | SignUp | Free Nutrition Newsletter | Forum | Search | healthcastle nutritionRSS
Media:
Press Room | Gloria Tsang, RD | In the News | Health Surveys | News Release | White Paper | Recommended By | Photos
Corporate:

About Us | Advertise with Us | Legal | Privacy Policy | Site Map | Contact Us

Information on this site is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or dietitian. Information and statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Copyright© 1997-2010 Healthcastle Nutrition Inc. All rights reserved.