Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) refers to the collection of symptoms caused by abnormal bowel movements. Its symptoms can range anywhere from loose stools to constipation. This may be accompanied by other symptoms such as:
- Flatulence
- Belching
- Abdominal pain
- Cramping
- Urgency to defecate
There are many medications that can be used in a step-by–step process to treat this condition according to the gravity of the symptoms. However, it is safe to say that majority of the role in symptoms relief is played by the diet the person consumes. This is why it is extremely important to know the kind of diets that you should consume if you have irritable bowel syndrome. Let us tell you about some of the best diets for IBS.
Consume a low-fat diet
Chronic intake of high-fat meals has been linked to a number of health problems, including obesity. It can, however, be particularly harmful for individuals with IBS, since symptoms might intensify.
High-fat diets are typically poor in fiber. This can exacerbate constipation caused by IBS. Fatty meals are especially problematic for persons with mixed IBS. In this type of IBS is the patients usually experience both constipation and diarrhea. A low-fat diet is excellent for your cardiovascular system too and may help relieve about your gastrointestinal problems.
Make sure you intake vegetables, fruits, grains, lean meats, fruits, vegetables, cereals, and low-fat dairy products instead of fried meals and animal fats.
FODMAP-reduced diet
FODMAP is the abbreviation for “fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols.”
They are a type of carbohydrate that may be difficult to digest in the intestines. People with IBS may have increased flatulence, discomfort, and diarrhea after consuming these carbohydrates because they cause more water to diffuse into your intestines. So, reducing amounts of high FODMAP foods may help to alleviate IBS symptoms.
It’s vital to remember that FODMAPs aren’t all carbs. You must eliminate the appropriate foods for the greatest results. Foods to stay away from include:
- Yoghurt
- Ice cream
- Legumes
- Cashews
- Pistachios
- Milk
- Fruits like pears, mangoes, peaches, plums
Fibrous Diet
Depending on whether you experience mainly constipation or diarrhea, you will have to adjust to either a high-fiber or a low-fiber diet respectively. Fibers are mainly found in fruits, vegetables, grains and grasses like sugarcane. Fiber helps to relieve constipation by increasing the fecal bulk and making defecation easier. However, you may sometimes experience bloating. If you do, cut down on insoluble fibers and focus more on soluble fibers that you get from fruits and vegetables.
If you suffer majorly from diarrhea and gas, it is a good idea to cut down on fibers. Instead of insoluble fibers like those found in grains, broccoli, raisins, tomatoes and nuts, opt for soluble fibers found in oatmeal and fruits like berries and apples.
Gluten-free eating plan
Gluten is a protein that may be found in grains like bread and pasta. Gluten-intolerant people’s intestines may be damaged by the protein. IBS affects certain persons who have a gluten sensitivity or intolerance. In certain circumstances, a gluten-free diet may help to alleviate symptoms.
To check whether your gastrointestinal issues improve, cut out rye, wheat and barley from your diet. If your symptoms seem to subside, gluten-free products may be the way forward for you. Don’t worry though, because nowadays you get gluten-free versions of lots of food items.
Foods to stay away from
Eliminating certain food items from your diet have been shown to drastically improve symptoms of IBS. These foods include:
- Chocolate
- Nuts
- Coffee
- Insoluble fiber
- Sweeteners
- Beans
- Legumes
- Processed foods
