Worst foods for IBS

People with Irritable Bowel Syndrome can attest that this condition is as uncomfortable as it sounds. The intestines malfunction and produce symptoms that can range from mildly unpleasant to unbearable. Since it is a digestive condition, it is largely influenced by what you eat. If you’ve been to the doctor and it just seems getting worse and worse, it might be possible that you are eating the worst foods for IBS without knowing it. By limiting or eliminating these foods from your every day diet, you can expect to see positive changes and improvement in your wellbeing.

What causes IBS?

This condition is so prevalent you might think its causes have long been discovered. Unfortunately, it still remains somewhat of a mystery. Research, however, suspect it is linked to neuron-chemical complications between the stomach and the brain. Others argue that it is caused by stress while others believe that it is the consequence of having stomach flu. The causes might not be verified, but the symptoms definitely are.

What are the symptoms of IBS?

You might have irritable bowel syndrome if you regularly experience constipation, bloating, excessive flatulence, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In severe cases, patients might also notice blood or pus in their stools, weight loss or the appearance of the mentioned symptoms after 50. Having these symptoms does not automatically qualify you as an IBS patient and you should consult your doctor to make sure they are not caused by other digestive conditions.

What are the worst foods for IBS?

The worst foods for IBS are those that are hard for the body to digest. Foods that can make your condition worse are fatty foods. Foods contain a high amount of bad fats like saturated and trans fats. These types of fats are very unhealthy and can result in increased levels of LDL cholesterol. Fatty foods include fast food, fried food, packaged, store-baked and processed food. Burgers, hotdogs, fries, doughnuts, pastry, cold cuts, chips, cookies and cake are great examples of the worst foods for IBS.

Spicy foods are infamous for making passing feces out of the body uncomfortable. So are breads and other products that contain gluten. Beverages that make the conditions worse are alcoholic drinks, caffeinated coffee and many types of teas.

It is possible for some healthy foods to aggravate your IBS symptoms. These foods usually cause constipation, diarrhea and flatulence when eaten. If dairy, for instance, causes constipation, then it probably worsens your IBS as well.

What are the best foods for IBS?

You should fill up on foods that are gently on the stomach. These include bananas, grapes, apples, avocados, berries, lettuce, rice, fish and yoghurt. It is also a good idea to eat according to your symptoms. If you have recurring constipation, you should choose foods with more soluble fiber like oatmeal and fruits and veggies like oranges, strawberries, sweet potatoes, cucumber and celery. If you experience chronic diarrhea, go for foods with insoluble fiber to bulk up your waste such as whole grains and meats.