IBS Diet Ideas

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a debilitating functional disorder that affects the colon. IBS sufferers experience varied symptoms, including abdominal cramps, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. The good news is that IBS can be controlled with medication, stress management and by incorporating a healthy diet. However, every IBS sufferer reacts differently to the same foods and, as a result, experiences different symptoms. IBS sufferers can experience relief by following a diet plan that alleviates the symptoms of IBS.

Soluble Fiber

Consume foods that are high in soluble fiber like rice, pasta, oatmeal, fresh white breads, rice cereals, corn tortillas, carrots, yams, potatoes and sweet potatoes. Soluble fiber-rich foods will prevent diarrhea and constipation in IBS sufferers. Avoid foods that contain insoluble fiber like raw, fibrous vegetables, salad greens, unpeeled fruits, whole grain flour and bread, cereal, granola, muesli, seeds, nuts and popcorn. Insoluble fiber can trigger painful gastrointestinal spasms in IBS patients, according to the Environmental Illness Resource website.

Avoid and Substitute Fats

Reduce your intake of fatty foods like red meats, dairy, egg yolks and fried foods like French fries, as fats are a powerful gastrointestinal tract stimulant. Foods high in saturated fat can cause either constipation or diarrhea. The Irritable Bowel Syndrome website recommends creative substitution rather than deprivation: consuming two egg whites instead of a whole egg, replacing cow's milk with soy or rice milk, low-fat vegetarian versions of meat products, using skinless chicken breasts, replacing oil with vegetable broth in sauces, and baking with fat-free cocoa powder instead of solid chocolate.

Consume Small Meals

Eat several small meals over the course of the day, as large meals can overload your gut and cause the food to ferment in your bowels. This creates gas, which results in abdominal cramps and pain in IBS sufferers. Healthy food habits like chewing your food slowly and eating with a calm disposition will aid digestion and prevent IBS symptoms.

Water

Nutritionist Elizabeth Harfleet states on the All About You website that the body absorbs water from the stools of dehydrated IBS sufferers, causing constipation and further aggravating IBS pain. Therefore, it is important to drink plenty of water, between six to eight glasses daily, especially if your IBS symptoms include diarrhea.