Diet for IBS Sickness

IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, is a common digestive disorder that causes abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea and constipation. While IBS can be uncomfortable, it does not damage the intestines. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), IBS can be controlled through diet and stress management. Speak with your doctor if you feel you have IBS to determine the appropriate alterations to your diet.

Keep a Food Journal

• The NDDIC suggests that carefully monitoring what you eat can help determine exactly what foods are causing your IBS symptoms. To create a dietary journal, write down every food that you consume throughout the day. If at any point you begin to notice stomach cramps or other symptoms, highlight the food that has caused your digestive tract to become upset. After a period of time, discuss your food journal with your doctor in order to determine the appropriate steps to alter your diet. A registered dietitian can help you to remove the foods from your diet that are causing IBS symptoms and replace them with foods that will provide the same nutrients to your body but won't irritate your digestive system.

Consume Psyllium Supplements

• Psyllium is a common fiber used within laxative products to add bulk to fecal matter. The compounds within psyllium are able to absorb a large amount of water, which when introduced into the intestines begins to enlarge stool to stimulate the intestines. Soluble fiber, such as psyllium, has been shown to relieve constipation and diarrhea symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, according to the University of Maryland. This supplement is available in husk or seed form, both of which can be used to help treat intestinal issues from IBS. You can purchase dried psyllium seeds, or husk, at any health food store. To consume psyllium, mix 2 teaspoons with 8 ounces of lukewarm water. Swiftly mix these ingredients together and drink upon waking in the morning or directly before bed. If you previously have not supplemented with psyllium, mix only 1 teaspoon with 8 ounces of water, and then gradually increase the dosage to 2 teaspoons. Make sure you drink this mixture quickly, as the psyllium begins to thicken at a rapid pace when introduced to water. If you are taking any medications, speak with your doctor before supplementing with psyllium, as it may hinder certain medications from being properly absorbed into the system.