There is a direct link to irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, as it occurs and is mostly triggered by food. Most people experience IBS directly after meals and often, certain foods make IBS worse. But with careful management your IBS can be regulated.
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a disorder of the intestines causing cramping, bloating, belly pain, diarrhea and constipation. We don’t know exactly what the root cause of IBS is, accept that the intestines don’t work as they should to process food.
What triggers IBS?
Any number of things can trigger IBS. Certain people have specific foods they must avoid that are IBS triggers. Common triggers include:
- Food – Different foods trigger IBS in different people
- Stress – Stress can do a number on anyone’s system, even those without IBS.
- Hormones – Elevated hormones in women during menstruation and pregnancy can affect IBS.
- Antibiotics – Certain antibiotics can trigger IBS in some people.
- Genetics – A family history of IBS can increase the likelihood of having it.
Symptoms of IBS
Symptoms can include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, diarrhea, constipation and gas. Symptoms can come and go, and vary for different people. Those with IBS usually experience either constipation or diarrhea.
What Foods Might Trigger My IBS?
There are common foods that trigger IBS in many people. These foods include dairy, spicy foods, fatty foods, alcohol, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners. Some foods are worse for those who have diarrhea, and some are worse for people whose IBS is in the form of constipation.
To Reduce Constipation from IBS:
- Increase daily intake of fiber – Fiber is in many fruits, vegetables and whole grains. You can also try fiber cereals or over the counter supplements
- Increase water consumption – Water flushes your system out and keeps your stool soft.
- Exercise – Exercise, besides being good for you, aids regularity.
To Reduce Diarrhea from IBS
Avoid the following things to relieve your diarrhea:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Nicotine
- Dairy
- Spicy Foods
- Acid Foods
- Fatty Foods
- Artificial Sweeteners
Find additional ways to alleviate your symptoms of IBS here.
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/ibs/guide/default.htm
