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May 1

Diet, lifestyle changes might help those with IBS – Herald-Mail Media

Diet Comments Off on Diet, lifestyle changes might help those with IBS – Herald-Mail Media

An estimated 20 percent of American adults suffer with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), although most prefer not to discuss it publicly.

It is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine (colon), causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. No one knows exactly what causes it, and there is no way for a doctor to make a definitive diagnosis. However, there are a variety of factors that affect IBS, including diet, stress, hormonal changes and activity level.

IBS can be managed with diet and lifestyle changes.

Foods often can cause flare-ups, so identifying ones that are personal triggers help people know which foods to avoid. Research has identified certain foods, called Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols commonly referred to as FODMAPs that might cause IBS symptoms.

FODMAPs are carbohydrates that are poorly digested, causing them to be fermented by bacteria in the digestive system. They also change the chemistry in the large bowel, which affects how quickly things pass through the body. Those two processes trigger many of the symptoms of IBS, but not all FODMAPs will pose problems for all people.

Some foods that are included in the FODMAP group are wheat products, onions, lentils, broccoli, beans, Brussels sprouts, soy-based products, dairy products, honey, mangos, watermelon, high-fructose corn syrup, apples, pears, cauliflower, and sugar substitutes containing xylitol or sorbitol.

Health care providers might recommend a controlled FODMAP diet for patients who have IBS. The diet starts with a low-FODMAP period. Working with a registered dietitian nutritionist who can give guidance on foods to avoid is recommended. With the help of an RDN, the patient will gradually reintroduce certain FODMAP-containing foods. During the reintroduction period, patients will keep track of signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal distress to help identify food triggers.

Dietitians work with patients to maintain adequate nutrition and develop an eating plan to meet their needs. The diets are supported by scientific evidence for use in medical nutrition therapy to manage symptoms of IBS.

How we eat also is important. Eating quickly can wreak havoc on digestion.

Eating small meals throughout the day helps prevent the stomach from becoming overloaded. Having a regular schedule for meals helps the body get used to a routine. Eat slowly, taking time to relax and chew your food.

Stress can trigger physiological changes in the digestive system, which can lead to IBS symptoms. People can benefit from using stress-management techniques such as massage, yoga, meditation and deep breathing.

Exercise also plays a role in healthy digestion of food. When you are active in your daily life, your stomach will be healthier and better regulated.

Some people might be tempted to control the symptoms of IBS with over-the-counter laxatives or antidiarrheal medication. Be sure to check with a health care provider before taking that approach.

Lisa McCoy is a family and consumer-sciences educator with University of Maryland Extension in Washington County. Her columns regularly appear in Wednesday's Food section in The Herald-Mail.

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Diet, lifestyle changes might help those with IBS - Herald-Mail Media

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