IBS-short for irritable bowel syndrome, is a health issue that affects millions of individuals. Some of the primary symptoms include constipation (difficult bowel movements), diarrhea (uncontrollable bowel movements) or both. Other symptoms associated include stomach bloating, excessive gas and mucus in the stool. Individuals who suffer from IBS need to monitor diet and food intake carefully and to work on stress management since triggers vary from person to person. The following will address some diet guidelines specifically for individuals who suffer from IBS with constipation.
Triggers
Various types of foods commonly have been associated with individuals suffering from IBS. These foods include dairy, caffeine, animal products, fatty foods, foods containing insoluble fibers, sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners and fructose, which is found in fruits. Certain vegetables, particularly cruciferous vegetables and others that have hard to digest fibers, may be triggers. These vegetables include brocolli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts and cabbage, which are a part of the cruciferous-vegetable family, and others such as carrots. In some cases, it can one or a combination of these foods that trigger a flare-up.
An Appropriate IBS-C diet
A key component to ease constipation when suffering from IBS is to consume larger amounts of fiber, preferably soluble fibers along with plenty of water. Foods high in soluble fibers include oatmeal, apples, green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale), brown rice and some breads and cereals. Although more products and cereals are popping up on supermarket shelves that are advertised as high fiber (Fiber One, All-Bran), not all IBS sufferers may benefit from the extra add-ins. Many IBS-C (constipation) individuals do not benefit from products that have added artificial fibers. Chicory root, an ingredient added to many new "high-fiber" grains can trigger symptoms of IBS and cause constipation since it can make stool harder to pass.
Other Remedies
IBS can mainly be controlled and treated by meticulous diet and stress management. Keeping a food diary of symptoms and foods can help individuals become more aware of which foods trigger the constipation. From there, the individuals can begin to incorporate the various food remedies and see which ones work best.
Over the counter fiber supplements and mild laxatives may also aid constipation sufferers if incorporated appropriately into the diet. Always remember to drink to a lot of water. Exercise is also key to aid easier digestion.
Tags: benefit from, bowel movements, soluble fibers, stress management, suffer from