Foods To Avoid In Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you are among the millions of individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you are likely familiar with the pain and irritation that this condition may cause. The gastrointestinal disorder known as IBS can cause a variety of digestive problems, such as diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain. Yet, making some dietary decisions may provide some alleviation. This article addresses the issue of IBS and foods to avoid to help control your symptoms.

What To Avoid In IBS?

Even though there is no treatment for IBS, there are foods to avoid in IBS. They are as follows.

1. Fruits:
   • Certain fruits like whole apples, rhubarb, and kiwis contain high levels of fibre and can increase water content in the digestive tract.
   • This extra moisture and fibre can lead to a laxative effect, potentially causing diarrhoea and discomfort in individuals with IBS.

2. Vegetables:
   • Some vegetables, particularly cruciferous ones like broccoli and cauliflower, are known for causing gas and can be hard to digest, often resulting in bloating and abdominal pain for people with IBS.

3. Legumes and Pulses:
   • Foods like beans, lentils, and chickpeas are rich in fibre and carbohydrates, which can lead to gas and digestive discomfort in those with IBS.

4. Dairy Products:
   • Lactose in dairy can be challenging for IBS sufferers to digest, potentially causing symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea.

5. Whole Wheat and Rye Products:
   • Whole grains, including whole wheat and rye, are high in fibre and gluten, which can be hard on the gut and lead to discomfort in individuals with IBS.

6. Sweeteners:
   • Artificial sweeteners, especially sugar alcohols like sorbitol and mannitol, can be harsh on the digestive system, often resulting in bloating and diarrhoea in those with IBS.

7. Ultra-Processed Foods:
   • These heavily processed foods often contain additives and preservatives that may irritate the gut, worsening IBS symptoms for some individuals.

8. Alcohol:
   • Alcohol can act as a gut irritant, potentially causing inflammation and digestive issues in people with IBS.
   • It can also disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system, leading to discomfort.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your comfort and overall health can be significantly impacted by the food decisions you make. If you want to manage IBS, you need to avoid trigger foods such as specific fruits, vegetables, legumes, dairy, whole grains, etc. To develop a plan that meets your unique needs and makes your journey with irritable bowel syndrome more comfortable and manageable, speak with a healthcare professional or a nutritionist who specialises in digestive health. Health insurance can help ease the financial burden of regular check-ups and specialized tests needed to monitor and manage IBS.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Also Read

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome Prevention: How to Prevent IBS
• Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Diagnosis and Management
• Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Symptoms, Types, and Effective Treatments
• Foods High in Antioxidants: Antioxidants Rich Food Sources
• Optimizing Digestive Wellness: A Guide to High-Fiber Foods for a Healthy Gut