Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Diet – traditional therapies have included dietary fibre, especially for treatment of symptoms of constipation. Fibre decreases the transit time through the colon and decreases the pressure in the colon. Increasing your consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and bran may also help; your doctor may suggest a soluble fibre supplement.

However, some recent research indicates that increased fibre can make symptoms worse for some IBS patients. This is because bacteria in the colon can break down fibre, producing gas, which may be uncomfortable for people with oversensitive nerves in the colon.

Discuss this with your doctor, it may be to your benefit to avoid certain forms of fibre, particularly gas-forming foods. But there’s no conclusive proof that eliminating certain foods will eliminate your symptoms.

In IBS, your bowel becomes sensitive to stimuli. The potential for abnormal colon/bowel function exists for everyone, but a trigger also must be present to cause symptoms. Identifying your triggers and avoiding them can help prevent the symptoms. Certain foods such as caffeine, dairy products, chocolate, nicotine, alcohol and high-fat food can all trigger an attack. Some common sense guidelines are:

• Eat at regular hours, chew food slowly and thoroughly and avoid large or high-fat meals or excess caffeine
• Drink six to eight cups of liquid daily, including fruit and vegetable juices and water
• Get regular physical activity
• Avoid delaying the urge to have a bowel movement
• Avoid straining during a bowel movement; try to relax and take your time