Which Vegetables Are Bad for Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common but unpleasant condition caused by digestive muscles that contract too fast or too slow when you eat. (See references 1 & 2) Certain foods, including some vegetables, act as triggers that can exacerbate IBS symptoms.(See reference 2)

Types

• The best diet for IBS contains lots of high-fiber vegetables; avoid vegetables that cause gas since they make IBS symptoms worse. Gas-causing vegetables include asparagus, broccoli, onions, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, peas, potatoes, and artichokes. (See reference 2)

Causes

• Vegetables that are bad for irritable bowel syndrome aren't absorbed by the small intestine. Instead, they pass into the large intestine where bacteria breaks them down, producing carbon dioxide, hydrogen and methane gases. (See reference 2)

Effects

• The gases produced by these vegetables cause cramping, bloating and flatulence. (See reference 2) Since people with IBS have digestive systems that are extra sensitive, these problems may be worse (see reference 2), and the gas can trigger other IBS symptoms, such as diarrhea. (See reference 1)

Prevention/Solution

• Avoiding vegetables that are bad for irritable bowel syndrome isn't always possible. Taking antiflatulents or digestive enzymes can help regulate your digestive system if you can't completely eliminate certain foods. (See reference 3)

Warning

• Cutting gassy vegetables from your diet may lead to inadequate nutrition. Be sure to keep your diet balanced, and consider taking vitamin supplements to meet all your nutritional needs. (See reference 3)