Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Diet Foods

IBS, also known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is a fairly common gastrointestinal disorder among Americans. The symptoms of IBS can be very painful and despite this, many people are unaware that they suffer from it and that treatment is an option. One of the most important methods for treating IBS is to avoid foods that irritate the condition. Examples of foods to avoid if you suffer from IBS include yeast, alcohol and sugar. Below is a full list of foods to avoid or eat in moderation if IBS is a condition you suffer from.

Foods to Avoid to Relieve Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Yeast - This will include most breads, cakes, muffins (this is very important for persons with Celiac Disease)

Alcohol - In particular all fermented drinks like beer, wines and spirits. Instead drink lots of water, diluted fruit juice, vegetable juice, fat-free milk, herbal teas and green tea.

Sugar - Including soft drinks, cookies, ice-cream, sugar-coated breakfast cereals, syrups and jelly. Also avoid anything canned in sugar or syrup.

Vinegar - Including pickles, relishes, saurkraut, sourdough bread, soy sauce

Mushrooms or Other Fungi

Smoked Foods - Including smoked fish and cheese.

Other Foods To Monitor - These include wheat, rye, barley, chocolate, milk products and drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, or colas.

NOTE: Before changing your diet, keep a journal noting the foods that seem to aggravate the symptoms of irritable bowel. Then discuss your findings with your doctor.

SOURCES include: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, 2002. Website: www.niddk.nih.gov/