Nutritional Therapies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

GIDOCJHB offers patients suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) a fresh approach to managing their condition.

In addition to providing effective treatments that are rooted in research, we pay attention to and address each patient’s unique history and concerns, and provide highly specialised and advanced care in the diagnosis, support, and treatment of patients living with inflammatory bowel syndrome, or IBD

Dr. Schneider understands that IBS can affect your quality of life and no two people experience symptoms in the same way.
We partner with you to optimise your treatment and help you manage symptoms long-term.

Whether you want to explore complementary and alternative therapies such as nutritional supplements or dietary changes, we’ll help you meet your personal goals while making sure you’re receiving the best, evidence-based medical care available.

 

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a collection of uncomfortable symptoms such as cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation.

It’s a common long-term disorder that affects the large intestine.

Only a small percentage of people with IBS have strong signs and symptoms.

Most people suffering from IBS can control their symptoms by managing lifestyle factors, such as diet and stress. More-severe symptoms can be treated with medication and therapy.

IBS isn’t life-threatening and doesn’t cause changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer or Crohn’s disease.

Those suffering from IBS may miss activities and planned obligations, such as work or school more often, and they may feel less able, and even paranoid and stressed to take part in daily activities.

Some people may need to change their work setting: shifting to working at home, changing hours, or finding a more flexible job that can accommodate them better.

 

Who Is at Risk for IBS?

• Age – IBS can affect people of all ages, but it’s more likely for people in their teens through their 40s.
• Family history – You’re at higher risk if you have a close relative, such as a parent, sibling, or child with the disease.
• Cigarette smoking – Cigarette smoking is the most important controllable risk factor for developing Crohn’s disease.
• Medications – Studies have shown a link between IBS symptoms and antibiotics, antidepressants, and drugs made with sorbitol.
• Food sensitivities – Some people may have digestive upsets when they eat dairy, wheat, sugar, fatty foods, or alcohol. Currently, there’s no evidence any of these foods cause IBS, but they can and may trigger symptoms at any time.

 

IBS Diet Suggestions

If bloating, gas, and changes in your bathroom habits are causing you to feel uncomfortable both socially and physically, changing your food choices can be an effective route to relief. Here are some food suggestions that can provide you relief:

 

1. Eggs

Generally, eggs are easily digested and “light” on the stomach, well still being wholesome and nutritious for someone who has IBS.

It doesn’t matter how you like your eggs, whether its hard-boiled, soft-boiled, scrambled, or poached.

Eggs are packed with amino acids, antioxidants, and iron. You don’t just have to eat the white of the egg too.

When you’re out buying eggs, pay close attention to the labels. Its always recommended to buy organic, when possible.

 

2. Salmon and Other Omega-3 Fish

Omega-3 fatty acids play an anti-inflammatory role within the body. Increasing your intake of omega-3s may be of help. Good fish sources of omega-3 fatty acids include:

• Anchovies
• Sardines
• Wild-caught salmon
• Whitefish

 

3. Lean Meats

Lean meats are comprised mainly of protein.

Protein is easily digestible and is not fermentable by gut bacteria—which translates to no unwanted intestinal gas.

Therefore you can eat any of the following with confidence:

• White meat chicken
• White meat turkey
• Pork
• Lean cuts of beef

 

4. Oats

Oats are a rich source of fiber, which feeds healthy bacteria in your gut.

Some patients with IBS experience a smaller trigger response in IBS symptoms from eating oatmeal, while others may experience increased symptoms.

 

5. Avocado

The creamy, green fruit is also filled with fiber, making it a great dietary option for those suffering from IBS. Mixing it with a salad or eggs is a great way to start your morning well.

 

6. Grapes

Grapes are low in fructan and contain anthocyanin, a name used for certain purple, blue or red antioxidants that may fight IBS and aid in weight loss thanks to their ability to inhibit inflammatory chemicals.

 

7. Tomatoes

Adding tomatoes to your diet is an easy and delicious way to combat IBS, as it is very gut-friendly.

 

Quick Tips for Controlling IBS Symptoms

• Try to eat your meals at about the same time each day.
• Keep a journal of what you eat, how much and when, as well as your reactions (heartburn, diarrhea, cramping). You should be looking for patterns of what you can and can’t eat based on symptoms
• Avoid eating so much in one sitting. Space out your meals in smaller portions
• Don’t skip meals or wait too long between meals.
• Avoid bad fatty foods, which can be harder to digest. Stick to lean.
• Drink plenty of water throughout your day. Also, see if drinking water with your meals helps ease symptoms
• Limit or avoid all types of caffeine, such as from coffee and tea.
• Avoid alcohol and fizzy (carbonated) drinks as much as possible
• When you do eat fruit, try fruits without the skins. Some people might have problems with melons, apples, and citrus fruits.
• Prepare foods by grilling, broiling, baking, or steaming with little to no oil. Try using a cooking spray in place of oil.
• Some people have problems with heavily spiced, sauced, or fried foods, but see if and how this effects you
• For the foods that are potential IBS symptom triggers for you, try introducing them back into your diet by having a small portion and choosing only one trigger food at a time.
• Reduce fructose. Fructose can cause diarrhoea in some people, particularly when eaten in large quantities.