Fried and fatty foods can also cause uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain and cramping. Switch to grilled, broiled, or roasted food options and minimize the use of oil.
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower can cause gas and bloating because they are difficult to digest. Vegetables like carrot, celery, and squash are better tolerated by people with IBS.
Eating large meals can also make IBS worse as this can overstimulate the digestive system and lead to abdominal pain and cramping. Smaller meals will improve digestion and minimize symptoms.
If you’re not sure which foods are causing IBS, keep a daily log of what you eat for at least one week. Recording how your body reacts to different foods will help pinpoint IBS triggers.
Can Dietary Changes Reduce Symptoms of IBS?
Trigger foods worsen IBS, so avoiding these will certainly ease symptoms of IBS. Once you know the problem foods, plan to avoid them to prevent flare-ups.
Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding cigarettes can help keep the symptoms of IBS at bay. But depending on the cause of IBS, medication may also be necessary to reduce symptoms. At Cochise Oncology, our gastroenterologist uses a customized approach to treat IBS.