IBS Relief: Understanding Foods That Trigger Your Symptoms By Dr. Kerry Evans
Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be challenging, especially when certain foods seem to trigger symptoms unexpectedly. Learning to identify and avoid these triggers is essential for managing IBS effectively. Dr. Kerry Evans, a specialist in digestive health, emphasizes the importance of understanding which foods can aggravate your symptoms and how to make informed dietary choices.
Common Trigger Foods To Watch Out For
Certain foods are known to commonly trigger IBS symptoms like bloating, cramping, and diarrhea. These include:
Dairy Products: Many people with IBS are lactose intolerant, meaning they cannot properly digest lactose found in milk, cheese, and other dairy products. This can lead to discomfort and symptoms like gas and diarrhea.
Gluten-Containing Foods: Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, can be problematic for those with IBS. Gluten sensitivity can cause similar symptoms to IBS, making it difficult to identify without careful observation.
Fried And Fatty Foods: High-fat foods, including fried items and fatty meats, can slow digestion, leading to increased symptoms of IBS such as bloating and stomach pain.
How To Identify Your Trigger Foods
As Dr. Kerry Evans recommends keeping a food diary to help identify which foods might be triggering your IBS symptoms. By tracking what you eat and noting any symptoms that arise, you can start to see patterns. It’s also helpful to introduce or eliminate one food at a time, so you can be sure which one is causing the issue.
Making Informed Food Choices
Once you’ve identified your trigger foods, it’s essential to make informed choices to avoid flare-ups. Opt for low-FODMAP foods, which are less likely to cause IBS symptoms. These include bananas, carrots, and oatmeal. Additionally, eating smaller, more frequent meals can help manage symptoms better than consuming large portions.
Conclusion
Understanding your IBS triggers is a crucial step toward finding relief. By recognizing the foods that cause discomfort and making mindful dietary changes, you can significantly improve your quality of life. Dr. Kerry Evans suggests that while it might take some time to identify all your triggers, the effort is well worth it for the relief it brings. Remember, managing IBS is not about deprivation, but about discovering what works best for your body.