Diet for IBS-Related Diarrhea

Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition that causes food to pass through your intestinal tract faster than normal. As a result you may experience diarrhea, abdominal cramps, gas or bloating shortly after eating. Many factors can cause IBS including stress, hormonal imbalances and food, which requires a special diet in order to minimize symptoms associated with the condition. Certain foods such as chocolate, milk, raw fruits and vegetables or fatty and fried foods can trigger diarrhea and should be limited or eliminated to decrease your risk of reoccurrence.

Fruits and Vegetables

• Although they are rich sources of vitamins and minerals, uncooked fruits and vegetables can be hard on your stomach during digestion, which can lead to diarrhea. To settle your stomach make sure all of your vegetables are thoroughly cooked before eating, and remove the peel from your fruits to reduce IBS. According to Heather Van Vorous, author of "Eating for IBS," raw fruits, vegetables and greens contain high amounts of insoluble fiber, which can be punishing on your stomach. Cooking your fruits, vegetables and greens causes them to lose the fiber concentration, making it easier on your intestinal tract.

Fructose and Sorbitol

• Fructose is a sugar found naturally in fruit and can be found in candy, soft drinks, fruit juices, honey and jams as a sweetener. According to Jeffrey M. Lackner, autor of "Controlling IBS the Drug-Free Way," even small amounts of fructose can cause diarrhea, gas and bloating. Sorbitol is a sweetener that replaces real sugar and is often found in syrups, cake mixes, medicine and sugar-free candy, according to Lackner. Prevent diarrhea by limiting consumption of food products that contain fructose or sorbitol. Check the nutrition labels to see if there is fructose or sorbitol.

Milk

• Milk allergies, also known as lactose intolerance is a common food allergy that affects 25 percent of Americans, according to Lackner. This food intolerance is caused by a lack of lactase, an enzyme that helps your body digest milk sugar. Lactose is also found in ice cream, cottage cheese, yogurt, sour cream and cheese. The best option for reducing diarrhea is to cut down on dairy products, or switch to soy products. Take calcium supplements if you decide to eliminate dairy from your diet, as calcium is needed to maintain strong bones.