Commonly, people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) experience stomach cramps, gas, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Some people with IBS experience constipation. Others have diarrhea.
Some experience both.
IBS symptoms are worsened by:
1. Large meals
2. Bloating from gas in the colon
3. Medicines
4. Wheat, rye, barley, chocolate, milk
5. products, or alcohol
6. Drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, or colas
7. Stress, conflict, or emotional upsets
8. Female reproductive hormones
Some people experience relief with stress-reduction techniques, counseling and support, getting adequate sleep, and making changes to reduce stressful situations. Simple changes in diet can improve or stop the symptoms for many people with IBS. Use a food journal to write down what foods seem to bring on IBS symptoms, then cut down on those foods. For example, if milk causes your symptoms to flare up, try substituting yogurt. Eating smaller meals might also ease IBS symptoms.
Your doctor/dietitian may suggest you increase your fiber - either by eating high fiber foods (e.g., whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) or by taking over the counter fiber supplements. He or she might also prescribe laxatives for constipation, medicines to decrease diarrhea, medications to reduce intestinal spasms, antidepressants, or medications that relax muscles in the bladder and intestines.
National Institute of Health. 2008.
