Foods to Avoid If You Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), your doctor might advise you to make a few changes in your diet to treat this condition’s symptoms. Adopting a healthy diet means watching what you eat, and consuming an ample mix of nutritious foods.

However, as we approach the December festive season, people suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome might notice that specific diets activate uncomfortable digestive symptoms.

It is impossible to come up with a single list of foods that trigger IBS symptoms because different people have different foods that cause these symptoms to manifest. With that said, research shows that avoiding some of the most common foods such as fried foods, dairy, and alcohol can result in:

• Less bloating

• A decrease in IBS symptoms

• Fewer cramps

• Regular bowel movements

Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome

According to medical experts, IBS is a persistent gastrointestinal ailment that happens to be the leading cause of abdominal disturbance and pain during bowel movements. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common condition that can reduce your quality of day-to-day life.

Most health experts agree that constipation, belly pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea are significant IBS indications.

This article will look at some of the common foods you need to avoid if you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, keep on reading to find out which foods you need to keep off your diet.

1. Gluten

Most people suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome tend to feel better when they avoid eating wheat and other foods containing gluten. Gluten is a protein composite group found in barley, wheat, and rye, which causes abdominal challenges to some people with IBS.

If you are the type of person who encounters worsening symptoms after consuming gluten products, medical experts advise you to adopt a gluten-free diet.

Luckily, the market is experiencing an upsurge supply of gluten-free products at a fast rate. If you are a fan of pasta, pizza, cookies, or cakes and would like to continue enjoying them, you can always opt for gluten-free substitutes.

Additionally, the market is flooded with many whole and nutritious substitutes to grains and flours that contain gluten. Some of them include:

• Coconut flour

• Sorghum

• Almond flour

• Oats

• Buckwheat

2. Insoluble Fiber

Always opt for dietary fibers as they assist in keeping your gut healthy while making your stomach feel full for extended periods. Foods that are high in dietary fiber include fruits, whole grains, and vegetables.

There are two types of fiber found in diets: Soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber is commonly found in oatmeal, beans, and fruits, while insoluble fiber is standard in vegetables and whole-grain products.

3. Fried Foods

French fries, fried chicken, and other fried foods are quickly emerging as the go-to foods in our fast-paced society. However, consuming too much of them can lead to serious health complications. The high-fat content found in these foods tends to be incredibly hard on the digestive system of people living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

According to health experts, frying food tends to change the food’s chemical structure, making it hard to digest, leading to digestive complications.

You can opt to grill or bake your favorite foods instead of frying for a more healthy option.

4. Dairy

For several reasons, dairy products tend to cause abdominal problems to many people suffering from IBS. Many dairy products are high in fat, which sometimes leads to stomach complications and diarrhea.

Also, many people have testified that milk plays a vital role in triggering their symptoms. However, it is unclear whether people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome are more likely to be lactose intolerant.

You can always opt for soy-based cheese and plant milk as dairy alternatives if you feel milk and dairy products give you digestive problems.

You can also opt to cut out dairy products entirely from your diet and focus on consuming calcium-rich foods such as beans, greens, seeds, sardines, and nuts.

Other Foods to Avoid

Other foods you might want to avoid if you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome include:

• Garlic and onions

• Alcohol

• Processed foods

• Caffeinated drinks

• Beans and legumes

• Chocolate

• Broccoli and cauliflower

Following the dietary advice above will hopefully help to reduce the frequency and severity of your IBS symptoms. However, remember to consult a doctor if the problems persist, as there is a range of medications available to help deal with the condition.