What Foods Should I Avoid with LBS?

IBS is an acronym for irritable bowel syndrome, which happens to be one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders. Cramping, flatulence, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation come after a disturbed colon.

Although the cause of the problem remains unidentified, diet plays a very important role in keeping the symptoms at bay. There are some foods that start or aggravate the symptoms of this disease, so knowing what to avoid is very necessary for those suffering from it.

1. High-FODMAP Foods

FODMAPs are a group of carbohydrates that consist of Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols, which may not be very well absorbed in the gut, then leading to increased gas production, bloating, and other IBS symptoms.

High-FODMAP foods are one of the most common triggers for people with IBS. Some examples of high-FODMAP foods could be:

• Certain Fruits: Apples, pears, cherries, mangoes, and watermelon are Ch high in FODMAPs and may give rise to discomfort.
• Vegetables: Onions, garlic, cauliflower, and broccoli are all high FODMAP foods that can bring on bloating and gassy feelings.
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are known for their capability to be gas-producing and bloating due to their high content of FODMAPs.
• Dairy Products: Lactose is a FODMAP, a sugar present in milk, soft cheeses, and yoghurt that can be triggered by milk intolerance.

2. Fatty and Fried Foods

Foods that are high in fat, particularly those that are fried, can be difficult to digest and may aggravate IBS symptoms. Fatty foods slow digestion and will cause bloating, discomfort, and diarrhea. Such examples are:

• Fried Chicken: The high amount of fat in fried chicken may make it hard to digest and lead to bloating and gas.
• French Fries: Not only are they extremely fattening, but they are usually also loaded with trans-fatty acids that can very easily trigger gut imbalance.
• Creamy Sauces and Dressings: Rich and creamy sauces can be very fatty and trigger symptoms in those who have IBS.

3. Caffeinated Beverages

Caffeine is a mild stimulant that increases the velocity of digestion and may, therefore, instigate diarrhea, which is among the major symptoms associated with IBS. One who has IBS finds decreasing or eliminating their intake of caffeinated beverages very helpful in controlling their symptoms. A few examples include:

• Coffee: It may be the way many people get started in the morning, but it can also stimulate the intestines and trigger discomfort.
• Tea: In particular, black and green teas that include caffeine may have to be restricted.
• Sodas: Many soft drinks include caffeine and artificial sweeteners, both of which can be triggering for those with IBS.

4. Processed Foods

Preservatives, flavor enhancers, and other gut-irritating additives are added in processed foods that may worsen IBS. In addition, these foods are usually high in fat but low in fiber not good at all for those who have IBS. Some examples of these processed foods that should be avoided include:

• Frozen Meals: Most of these are high in sodium and fat and will trigger the IBS symptoms most of the time.
• Processed Snack Foods: Chips, crackers, and like foods are made using refined grains and unhealthy fats, thus can be hard on the digestive system.
• Processed Meats: Sausages, hot dogs, deli meats—all these contain additives or preservatives that can cause stomach problems and irritation of the digestive tract.

Conclusion

What one keeps in mind is that everybody’s body is different, and what might trigger symptoms in one person has no effect on another. This can help develop a diet plan more suited to your individual requirements by consulting with a professional healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic