Soluble Fiber & Irritable Bowel Syndrome

FamilyDoctor.org describes irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as an intestinal problem in which, "the intestines squeeze too hard or not hard enough and cause food to move too quickly or too slowly through the intestines. Fortunately, soluble fiber helps.

Beneficial Process

• People with irritable bowel syndrome have to guard against cramping and diarrhea, as well as constipation at the other side of the spectrum. Soluble fiber regulates the bowels by creating a gel-like material that is passed at a comfortable rate.

Foods with Soluble Fiber

• Rice, oat, and barley products, pasta and beans are among the foods with soluble fiber. Vegetables include potatoes, carrots, beets, mushrooms, and yams. Fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and applesauce help as well.

Eating Order

• Eat soluble fiber before eating other foods. They can be eaten at any time, but according to Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment: Eating for IBS Diet, soluble fiber foods are the best foods to eat on an empty stomach.

Prevention

• Psyllium supplements are beneficial as a routine preventative for irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Newer versions can be mixed with water or juice. They will stay in the liquid state rather than become gritty and thick like the old-style supplements.

Warning

• An Aug. 28, 2009 InjuryBoard.com article cites a Dutch study that states IBS sufferers "may find relief with psyllium...but, they'll get no relief---and perhaps more bowel upset---from bran.