1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Slideshow Pictures
2. Digestive Disease Myths Slideshow Pictures
3. Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis) Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP

John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP

John P. Cunha, DO, is a U.S. board-certified Emergency Medicine Physician. Dr. Cunha's educational background includes a BS in Biology from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, and a DO from the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in Kansas City, MO. He completed residency training in Emergency Medicine at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, New Jersey.

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Medical Editor:

Bhupinder Anand, MD

Diet and lifestyle changes are important in decreasing the frequency and severity of IBS symptoms.

The first thing your doctor may suggest is to keep a food diary. This will help you figure out foods that trigger your symptoms.

• Limit foods that contain ingredients that can stimulate the intestines and cause diarrhea, such as:
  
  
  • Caffeine
    
    
  • Alcohol
    
    
  • Dairy products
    
    
  • Fatty foods
    
    
  • Foods high in sugar
    
    
  • Artificial sweeteners (sorbitol and xylitol)
    
    
• Some vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts) and legumes (beans) may worsen bloating and gassiness and should be avoided.
  
  
• Dietary fiber may lessen symptoms of constipation.
  
  
• Drink plenty of water, and avoid carbonated drinks such as soda, which may cause gas and discomfort.
  
  
• Eat smaller meals and eat slowly to help reduce cramping and diarrhea.
  
  
• Low fat, high carbohydrate meals such as pasta, rice, and whole-grain breads may help (unless you have celiac disease).

In addition to dietary changes, there are some healthy habits that may also help reduce IBS symptoms.

• Maintain good physical fitness to improve bowel function and help reduce stress.
  
  
• Stop smoking for overall good health.
  
  
• Avoid coffee and chewing gum.
  
  
• Reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption may help.
  
  
• Stress management can help prevent or ease IBS symptoms.
  
  
  • Use relaxation techniques: deep breathing, visualization, yoga
    
    
  • Do things you find enjoyable: talk to friends, read, listen to music

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