Can Irritable Bowel Syndrome Be Managed with Nutrition?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal condition that causes cramping, stomach pain, bloating, and gas; it also causes diarrhea or constipation — or sometimes both. If you have IBS, you know how disruptive its symptoms can be; you also know that often, what you eat can make all the difference between a good and bad day.

Given the many potential food triggers for IBS, there’s no one-size-fits-all diet to manage its symptoms. However, Dr. Husney, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Jack Husney, MD, in Brooklyn, New York, will not only help you figure out your triggers, but also provide you with a tailored diet plan to reduce the likelihood of sudden IBS flare-ups.

Here, Dr. Husney explains the role of nutrition in IBS management. He breaks down common trigger foods, discusses the benefits of the low FODMAP diet, and explains the importance of having a personalized nutrition plan. 

How does nutrition affect IBS? 

There’s no one-size-fits-all IBS diet, but many people find it easier to cope with the condition when they avoid certain trigger foods. The most common culprits are high-FODMAP foods, which are rich in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. 

Examples of FODMAP foods include garlic, onions, beans, and certain fruits. Dairy products are also common triggers, as lactose intolerance is common among people with IBS. For people with IBS who also have a co-occurring gluten sensitivity, avoiding wheat, barley, and rye can help reduce symptoms.

The low-FODMAP diet

The most effective way to manage IBS through nutrition is to adopt a low-FODMAP diet. That means removing high-FODMAP foods from your diet for some time. Next, gradually reintroduce them to identify which ones trigger symptoms. 

While a low-FODMAP diet is effective, it’s crucial to enlist the help of a specialist. With Dr. Husney’s guidance, you can be assured that you’re getting all your nutritional needs met while an expert helps you properly identify your IBS food triggers.

Watch your eating habits

It isn’t just what you eat — but also how you eat — that affects your IBS. Eating large meals can often worsen your symptoms, so having smaller, more frequent meals is advisable throughout the day. Chewing your food thoroughly and eating slowly can also help ease IBS symptoms. 

Careful eating allows your digestive system to process food without becoming overwhelmed. Also, maintaining regular meal times enables you to go to the toilet more routinely, significantly reducing IBS symptom occurrence.

Foods that can help manage IBS

While some foods can trigger IBS symptoms, others can help soothe your digestive system. Soluble fibers like oats are great for regulating bowel movements and easing symptoms like diarrhea and constipation. 

Probiotics

Probiotics are also beneficial and help you maintain a healthy gut. They can reduce bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements. Plain unsweetened yogurt, kefir, and kimchi are excellent probiotic sources. 

Low-FODMAP veggies

While some vegetables can trigger symptoms, low-FODMAP vegetables are generally easier on your digestive system. Carrots are gentle and can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced. Zucchini is another versatile option that can be grilled, steamed, or added to stews. 

Lean protein sources

Foods that are high in saturated fats can trigger IBS symptoms, so lean proteins are a better choice. Chicken and turkey are low in fat and can be grilled, baked, or boiled. Fish like salmon and trout are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and can reduce gut inflammation. 

Ready for better IBS management?

While managing IBS can be challenging, making the right nutritional choices can help ease symptom occurrence. Identifying and avoiding trigger foods, following a low FODMAP diet, and adding soluble fibers and probiotics to your diet can all help you manage the condition better. 

Ready for better IBS management? Book an appointment with Dr. Husney in our Brooklyn, New York City office today. He’ll develop an effective, personalized IBS plan just for you.