Irritable bowel syndrome IBS is a common ailment that affects the normal functioning of the large intestine. The condition can cause various discomforts associated with bowel movements such as cramps in the lower abdomen, bloating, gas, constipation or diarrhea. Some people experiencing it may even find it difficult to perform their everyday tasks as the pain sometimes can be quite severe. IBS is a chronic condition, but unlike the other forms of this disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, this condition does not increase the risk of colorectal cancer.

Before looking into options on how you can manage IBS, it is essential that you understand how it impacts your everyday routine. When left untreated, this condition, though it may seem to be under control, can lead to some very major complications. The most obvious result of IBS is the frequent cases of diarrhea and constipation. Having these problems very frequently can aggravate hemorrhoids. Also, when this happens, it leads to dehydration. The situation further worsens when you are not too keen on following the irritable bowel syndrome diet and avoid certain foods, thereby causing malnutrition. What’s even worse is that people who have a constant complain of IBS feel low and depressed, which reflects on their lifestyle.

Dealing with IBS with dietary changes

By following a simple irritable bowel syndrome diet and some significant, positive and permanent lifestyle changes, the condition can become hassle-free. Of course, your body will not immediately respond, but gradually, you will notice that IBS becomes an unimportant part of your life.

Make fiber your best friend:
When you have been diagnosed with IBS, the best thing that you can and should do is include fiber in your everyday diet. Fiber is known to be very effective in reducing constipation. However, you have to also keep in mind that too much fiber can aggravate gas and increase abdominal cramps. So you should not increase your fiber intake suddenly. Do so slowly and gradually over a period of weeks. This will ensure that your body gets used to the increased amount of fiber and thereby you will not see a negative impact. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans are all good sources of fiber, and you should include these food items in your irritable bowel syndrome diet.

It may be possible that your body is not reacting in the desired manner towards increased fiber intake. In this case, you may switch to fiber supplements. When prescribing fiber supplements like Metamucil and Citrucel, it is advised that you take lots of water to prevent excessive gas and to bloat.

Stay away from problem foods:
Following a good irritable bowel syndrome, diet plan implies that you keep foods like alcohol, chocolates, and caffeinated beverages like coffee and soda as well as dairy products off your diet chart. Sugar-free sweeteners such as sorbitol and mannitol are not good for people with IBS. If flatulence is your biggest concern, you should be staying away from foods such as beans, cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage. One small but essential tip is to avoid drinking fluids through a straw as this may cause swallowing of air, which can further aggravate gas.

Be regular with your meal times:
This may sound too simple, but it is very essential to eat and drink at regular intervals. Regular meals help in regulating the bowel movements. However, you can alter the timing and quantity of food you eat based on your issues. If you are constantly troubled with diarrhea, you may find it more convenient to eat smaller, but more frequent meals. If constipation is your issue, larger, fiber-rich meals can be good. Skipping meals is something that will ruin your irritable bowel syndrome diet, so you should avoid doing that.

Be aware of the dairy foods:
In some cases, people with IBS are advised to completely cut down on consumption of dairy products. In other cases, you may have small amounts of milk products and combine them with other foods that you plan to eat in your irritable bowel syndrome diet. If you are completely going off dairy, make sure you get your dose of protein, calcium, and vitamin B from other foods.

Apart from the above, do exercise regularly and drink plenty of liquids.

In most cases, people with IBS do not usually have signs and symptoms that can be very excruciating. Most of these symptoms can easily be managed by some lifestyle changes, irritable bowel syndrome diet control, and stress management. However, if you have severe symptoms about this condition, you are advised to opt for medicines and professional counseling by a health expert.