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Foods and Drinks Which Can Worsen Irritable Bowel Syndrome
By
Elizabeth Harfleet, Nutritional Therapist
Irritable
Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms can vary greatly from person to
person. They can range from slight discomfort to being
completely debilitated and housebound. Although there is no IBS
cure as such, many sufferers have noticed that certain foods
seem to trigger symptoms. By avoiding problem foods, it is
possible to alleviate some of the discomfort caused by Irritable
Bowel Syndrome.
A food
intolerance test or elimination diet can help to identify any
foods which may be causing you problems. We provide York Test
food intolerance tests
which you can use yourself in the comfort of your own home.
However certain foods are well known for their irritating
effect on the digestive tract and are therefore best avoided.
Coffee,
even the decaffeinated version, contains enzymes which are
irritating to the whole of the digestive tract. Caffeine in
general should therefore be avoided.
The
effects of alcohol are well known! Whilst a little red wine may
be good for the cardiovascular system, most people go well
beyond this. Irritable Bowel Syndrome sufferers would be best to
avoid alcohol if possible and should definitely avoid drinking
it on an empty stomach.
Fibre is
reputed to be good for IBS and digestive health in general.
However, some grains and gluten, (the sticky protein found in
many grains), can be irritating and difficult to digest. Foods
such as brown rice and vegetables are preferable sources of
fibre.
Fruit is
very much a personal choice. Fruits which are ‘sharp’ such as
berries and citrus fruits can feel quite acidic when digested.
Foods such as bananas, pears and red apples may be a better
choice.
Other
foods which can play a part in worsening Irritable Bowel
Syndrome symptoms include dairy products and yeast.
Diet can
play an important role in alleviating Irritable Bowel Syndrome
symptoms. Food intolerance tests help to identify any problem
foods specific to you, whilst avoiding well-known problem foods
like coffee, acidic fruits, dairy products and yeast can also
help.
Elizabeth Harfleet is a Manchester-based Nutritional Therapist
specialising in the treatment of IBS. For more information or
to order a food intolerance kit, please visit
http://www.wellbeing-nutrition.com/treatment-for-ibs.htm
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