IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) Diet Plan

It is estimated that 15-20% of Americans suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS. Though this condition is very common, many people go undiagnosed and untreated throughout their lives because there is very little education about this condition. The good news is that once diagnosed, there are many possible treatments, including a change in diet. The IBS diet eliminates irritants, such as high fat foods, that can cause gastrointestinal pain and discomfort. The following is an example of a two day IBS diet plan that should help to alleviate the symptoms of IBS.

IBS Diet Plan - Day 1

Breakfast
1 cup soy yogurt
2 tbsp sugar-free granola
2 kiwi fruits

Mid-Morning

2 oatcakes (or 1 slice oatbread with light margarine)

Lunch
1 cup lentil soup
1 whole wheat 6" pita
1 oz hummus
2 cups mixed salad leaves
2 tbsp fat-free dressing

Snack
1/2 cup unsweetened apple juice
Small handful cashew nuts

Dinner
6" tortilla
5 oz turkey breast, cut in thin strips
1 clove minced garlic
2 tsp olive oil
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1 cup spinach
1/2 cup vegetable juice

Method: Heat oil in non-stick skillet. Add the garlic and turkey and cook quickly for 5 minutes. Add the vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes. Serve wrapped in warm tortilla with the vegetable juice.

IBS Diet Plan - Day 2

Breakfast
1 cup Oatmeal
1/2 cup fat-free milk
1 tbsp linseeds
1 cup berries
Cook oatmeal, sprinkle with linseeds and top with berries.

Snack
Apple

Lunch
2 eggs
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp oil
1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
1/2 cup spinach
2 cups mixed salad leaves
2 tbsp fat-free dressing

Method: Heat oil in non-stick skillet. Add vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes. Beat eggs and milk together and add to the vegetables. Allow to set. Serve with salad.

Snack
2 rye crackers (like Ryvita)
1 mashed banana

Dinner
4 oz lean tenderloin beef
1 clove minced garlic
2 tsp oil
1 onion
2 fresh tomatoes
3 tbsp (dry weight) brown rice
1 cup broccoli

Method: Thinly slice the beef and tomatoes. Heat oil in non-stick skillet. Add garlic and meat and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the sliced tomatoes and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes. Serve over cooked rice with steamed or microwaved broccoli.