Irritable Bowel Syndrome

What is irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is when the large intestines experience a group of symptoms. They usually happen at the same time. IBS lasts for a long time. Making changes in food, stress, and lifestyle can control the symptoms.

What are possible causes?
  • Stressful early life events
  • Bacterial overgrowth
  • Bacterial infection
  • Food intolerances
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
What are some symptoms?
  • Stomach pain
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Bloating
  • Gas
What to do?
  • Limit fatty foods
  • Slowly add fiber
  • Reduce stress
  • Drink at least 8 cups of water
  • May benefit from following a low FODMAP diet
  • Avoid foods that worsen the symptoms
  • Consult a doctor or dietitian before making big changes
  1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome/definition-facts. Published November 2017. Accessed December 4, 2020.
  2. Symptoms & Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes. Published November 2017. Accessed December 9, 2020.
  3. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Nutrition Care Manual. http://www.nutritioncaremanual.org. Accessed December 12, 2020.