Foods to Avoid With an Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), you need to avoid fatty foods, since fat is difficult to digest and thus triggers both parts of IBS--constipation and diarrhea. When fat enters your stomach, it sets off the gastro colic reflex, causing your colon to contract, which can prompt an IBS attack.

Red Meat

• Red meat, such as ground beef, hot dogs, steak, salami, roast beef and sausage can trigger an attack because the heavy animal proteins can lead to colon contraction and constipation.

Egg Yolks

• You need to avoid the yolks because, like meat, too little fiber and too much fat can lead to severe constipation. Egg whites are fine.

Dairy Products

• Dairy can trigger IBS even if you aren't lactose intolerant. Foods like butter, cheese, yogurt and ice cream contain both fat and lactose, and also contain whey and casein proteins, which cause horrible digestion issues.

Coffee

• Regular and decaffeinated coffee has an enzyme that is harmful to the GI tract, and should be avoided.

Artificial Sweeteners

• Sweeteners like Soritol may cause IBS symptoms of bloating, cramps and diarrhea.

Carbonation

• If you drink carbonated sodas or mineral water, you may experience some bloating or cramps.