How to Eat for an IBS Diet

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a condition that affects a person's large intestines and can lead to several uncomfortable side effects, including cramping, bloating, gas, constipation and diarrhea. There is no cure for IBS so the most effective way for a patient to treat the condition is thorough a change in diet. Eating sensibly and choosing the correct foods can help lessen the severity of IBS symptoms and allow the sufferer to live a more normal life.

Things You'll Need

• Fiber-rich foods

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Instructions

• 1

  Drink plenty of water throughout the day, but skip it during meals. The intake of fluids can hamper digestion, which will make IBS symptoms even worse.

• 2

  Consume several small meals throughout the day instead of three large ones. Eating a large meal can irritate the large intestine. These meals should also be consumed at regular times throughout the day in order to regulate digestion and bowel movements.

• 3

  Increase the amount of fiber in your diet gradually over a matter of weeks. This increase can come in the form of fiber drink mixes and supplements or by introducing fiber-rich foods to your diet, including oat bran, lima beans, raspberries and whole grains. Avoid consuming large amounts of fiber at once, as this can make bloating and gas worse.

• 4

  Avoid consuming foods and beverages that can irritate the large intestine, including alcohol, chocolate, dairy products such as milk and ice cream, cabbage, broccoli and caffeinated beverages.

• 5

  Avoid consuming foods that contain high amounts of refined ingredients, such as sugars. These include potato chips, cookies, white rice and white bread. Wheat bread, brown rice and naturally sweet snacks, such as strawberries, should be substituted for these foods.