The Foods To Avoid With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Diet is a major contributing factor in irritable bowel syndrome. For those suffering with this malady it is imperative that they learn how to alter their diet to relieve symptoms that include but are not limited to bloating, gas, cramping and pain.

Certain foods must be avoided in order to control symptoms. For those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome some foods to avoid will be cited in this article. You can use the following list to guide you in your effort to control the symptoms from which you are currently suffering. Of course you will want to discuss the specifics with your doctor.

You should eliminate certain foods from your diet, namely fatty and sugary foods. You should also avoid caffeine as much as you can. This is because all of these are considered gastrointestinal irritants and will worsen your symptoms. The high fat content present in the diet of some individuals is responsible for causing spasms in the colon that are rapid, violent, and very painful. Items such as french fries, onion rings, fried chicken, potato chips, corn chips, pie crusts, nuts and nut butters are all high in fat content and should not be consumed.

Individuals that suffer from bloating and gas will need to eliminate foods such as beans, cabbage, and carbonated beverages, as these foods create more gas and further irritate the bowel.

It is important to know that meat, egg yolks, and dairy products are major contributors of triggering and/or aggravating symptoms. In addition, these offenders and are actually dangerous to one with irritable bowel syndrome. Red meat should be removed from the diet.

All forms of red meat including:

• ground beef
• hamburgers
• hot dogs
• steaks
• roast beef
• pastrami
• salami
• bologna
• pepperoni
• corned beef
• corn dogs
• ham
• sausage

All these foods are unadvised.

The dairy category includes:

• cream cheese
• whipped cream
• yogurt
• butter
• shortening
• margarine
• tartar sauce
• mayonnaise
• salad dressings
• cool whip

Foods such as shredded coconut, olives, and solid chocolate are also off limits.

On the other hand, there are foods that are not only permissible but advisable. Feel free to consume plenty of vegetables. Fresh fruits are also nutritious and are a pleasant addition to any diet. Another item you must consume daily is water (six to eight glasses a day are recommended.)

You may consider maintaining a daily food diary. Food diaries are very helpful because you are not only documenting what you are eating and drinking, but in doing so you can begin to identify what foods are causing problems in your particular case. The diary will expose them, then you can remove them. Making these dietary changes and taking recommended precautions can relieve symptoms.

An added benefit to keeping a food diary is that you can review and discuss its contents with your doctor. It will be a helpful tool for him in treating your case and evaluating your progress.

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