Why is diet Important?

Many people find that their irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms become worse after they eat. Sometimes certain foods make symptoms worse.

No particular foods cause everyone with IBS to have symptoms. Doctors do not advocate a particular diet to manage symptoms. But through trial and error, many people find that they feel better when they stop eating certain foods. These foods may cause the intestines to contract, which can aggravate IBS in people who have diarrhea as their main symptom.

Test your knowledge

Determine whether this statement is true or false.

• People with irritable bowel syndrome do not need to follow a special diet.
  • True
  • False

Answer: True

This answer is correct.

People with irritable bowel syndrome do not need to follow a special diet. However, many people with irritable bowel syndrome discover that certain foods cause them to have symptoms of abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, and bloating. A high-fiber diet may reduce symptoms, particularly for people who have constipation.

Answer: False

This answer is incorrect.

People with irritable bowel syndrome do not need to follow a special diet. No particular diet is recommended for everyone with IBS. However, many people with irritable bowel syndrome do find that some foods tend to cause them to have symptoms.