IBS and how to manage it with food

What is IBS

IBS is long term condition that affects the intestines and causes a group of digestive symptoms. It is very common condition and unlike IBD (inflammatory bowel disorder) does not cause any visible signs of damage or inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

It is not known exactly what causes IBS, but digestive problems and gut sensitivity may play a role.

IBS Symptoms

The symptoms may vary from mild to severe like:

• gas and bloating

• pain in abdomen

• mucus in the stool

There are no specific tests for IBS. To rule out other conditions you may have blood and stool tests, colonoscopy and intolerance test.

How to use food to treat IBS

Research shows that soluble fibre is more helpful in relieving IBS symptoms. To help body to get used to more fibre add foods with more fibre to your diet a little at a time. Too much fibre at once can cause gas which can trigger IBS symptoms. Adding fibre by 2 to 3 grams a day to your diet can help prevent gas and bloating. Also reduce gluten rich foods like wheat, barley and rye to see if symptoms will improve.

Avoid fast foods, artificial ingredients, refined flour, fried foods and processed meats. I recommend 80/20 rule, 80 percent healthy food and 20 percent less healthy food.

After avoiding certain foods next step is to consciously add foods into your diet that will help heal the gut. In addition to a whole food diet, here are some foods that will go the extra mile when it comes to your digestive system:

• water

• yogurt

• kefir

• steamed vegetables

• fresh vegetable juice

• avocado

• olive and coconut oil

• lean protein

• fruit

• rice

• peppermint tea

• marshmallow tea

Aloe vera juice can help smooth and heal the digestive tract, fish oil will reduce inflammation and Slippery elm can help heal irritated digestive tract tissues. Ginger can help with nausea and will also bring down inflammation and abdominal pain.

To find out more about how to use food to improve your mood and have a better sleep feel free to get in touch with me today.