How to Lose Weight When You Have IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causes pain and discomfort in the abdominals. IBS refers to impaired function in your bowels, which may result in cramping, gas, diarrhea or constipation and bloating. The key to losing weight for IBS sufferers is to make sure you eat healthily and exercise regularly, avoiding any foods that could set off an IBS attack.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid foods that may instigate an attack and prevent you from losing weight. This includes fatty foods such as french fries, alcohol, caffeinated drinks, carbonated soda drinks and milk products including cheese and ice cream. Not only do these foods lead to weight gain, they may also cause an IBS attack.

• 2

  Eat foods high in fiber, which are good for both treating IBS and losing weight. Foods that are high in fiber are softer and pass through your system more quickly and freely, and can ease the pain and discomfort associated with constipation. Foods high in fiber include vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, peas, as well as whole-grain breads, kidney beans and lima beans.

• 3

  Add fiber foods into your diet gradually; too much fiber all at once could result in uncomfortable diarrhea for some. Consider taking fiber pills if you don't eat a lot of vegetables, but it is important to eat as healthily as possible to keep your entire body in good condition.

• 4

  Eat reasonably sized portions as opposed to up-sized meals to assist with both IBS and weight loss. Many restaurants serve large portions ("super size," "hungry man," "all you can eat" and the like) that are counterproductive to losing weight. Eating smaller dinner portions will prevent you from filling up; however, if you're eating the right foods, such as raw vegetables, you will feel full on less.

• 5

  Consult a doctor about taking a laxative to treat constipation. If you suffer from constipation often, you could feel more bloated and your body weight will seem heavier. A laxative could improve your digestion problems; however, don't take one every day.

• 6

  Exercise three to five times a week for at least a half hour. Exercise will help you lose weight and feel good overall, whether you have IBS or not. Tailor your exercises to keep you interested; for example, try cycling, skating or running on your own; or join a gym and take an aerobics or spin class if you want the benefit of others to motivate you.