How do IBS and diverticulitis differ. What are the common symptoms of these digestive disorders. What causes IBS and diverticulitis. How are these conditions treated. Can diet help manage diverticulosis and IBS. What are the risk factors for developing these digestive issues. How can you differentiate between IBS and diverticulitis symptoms.

Understanding IBS and Diverticulitis: An Overview of Digestive Disorders

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and diverticulitis are two distinct digestive disorders that can cause significant discomfort and impact quality of life. While they share some similarities, it’s crucial to understand their differences in order to manage them effectively.

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by a group of symptoms affecting the digestive system. These symptoms often include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and bloating. On the other hand, diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition that occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the digestive tract become infected or inflamed.

Key Differences Between IBS and Diverticulitis

• Onset: IBS typically develops before age 50, while diverticulitis is more common in older adults.
• Cause: The exact cause of IBS is unknown, whereas diverticulitis has a clear physical cause – inflammation of diverticula.
• Pain characteristics: IBS pain often eases after a bowel movement, while diverticulitis pain is usually constant and localized.
• Associated symptoms: Diverticulitis may cause fever and chills, which are not typical in IBS.

Recognizing the Symptoms: IBS vs. Diverticulitis

Identifying the symptoms of IBS and diverticulitis is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While some symptoms overlap, there are distinct differences that can help differentiate between the two conditions.

Common Symptoms of IBS

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating
• Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between both)
• Mucus in stools
• Feeling of incomplete bowel movement

Common Symptoms of Diverticulitis

• Severe abdominal pain, usually on the lower left side
• Fever and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Abdominal tenderness

Is the location of pain different in IBS and diverticulitis? In IBS, abdominal pain can occur anywhere in the abdomen and often changes location. Diverticulitis typically causes pain in the lower left abdomen, although people of Asian descent may experience pain on the right side.

Exploring the Causes and Risk Factors of IBS and Diverticulitis

Understanding the underlying causes and risk factors for IBS and diverticulitis can help in prevention and management of these conditions.

Causes and Risk Factors for IBS

The exact cause of IBS remains unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development:

• Intestinal muscle contractions that are stronger or weaker than normal
• Severe infection in the digestive tract
• Changes in the microbes in the gut
• Nervous system abnormalities
• Severe stress, especially during childhood
• Hormonal changes

Causes and Risk Factors for Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula become inflamed or infected. Risk factors include:

• Low-fiber diet
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Lack of exercise
• Certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs)
• Aging

Does diet play a role in the development of these conditions? Yes, diet can significantly impact both IBS and diverticulitis. A low-fiber diet is a major risk factor for diverticulitis, while certain foods can trigger IBS symptoms in some individuals.

The Connection Between IBS and Diverticular Disease

Recent studies have suggested a potential link between IBS and diverticular disease, including diverticulitis. While the exact nature of this relationship is not fully understood, emerging research provides some interesting insights.

Research Findings on IBS and Diverticular Disease

A 2020 study found that diverticulitis was nearly four times more common in people with IBS compared to those without IBS. Additionally, IBS was associated with a higher recurrence of diverticulitis. These findings suggest a potential connection between the two conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the relationship.

Another study from 2014 focused on a Japanese population and found that left-sided or bilateral diverticular disease was associated with a higher risk of IBS. Interestingly, right-sided diverticular disease did not show the same association.

Are people with IBS more likely to develop diverticulitis? While the research suggests a potential increased risk, it’s important to note that having IBS does not necessarily mean you will develop diverticulitis. Many people with IBS never develop diverticular disease.

Diagnostic Challenges: Differentiating Between IBS and Diverticulitis

Accurately diagnosing IBS and diverticulitis can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms and the potential for misdiagnosis. Understanding the diagnostic process and potential pitfalls is crucial for healthcare providers and patients alike.

Common Diagnostic Tools and Procedures

• Medical history and physical examination
• Blood tests to check for inflammation or infection
• Stool samples to rule out infections
• Imaging studies (CT scan, colonoscopy) for suspected diverticulitis
• Rome criteria for diagnosing IBS

A 2020 study highlighted the importance of accurate diagnosis, finding that about 1 in 5 initial cases of diverticulitis diagnosed without imaging were misdiagnosed. This underscores the need for thorough evaluation and appropriate use of diagnostic tools.

How can healthcare providers improve the accuracy of diagnosis? Utilizing a combination of clinical assessment, patient history, and appropriate diagnostic tests can help differentiate between IBS and diverticulitis. When in doubt, imaging studies can be particularly helpful in confirming or ruling out diverticulitis.

Treatment Approaches for IBS and Diverticulitis

While IBS and diverticulitis are distinct conditions, some treatment approaches may overlap. However, it’s crucial to tailor the treatment to the specific diagnosis for optimal management.

Treatment Options for IBS

• Dietary modifications (e.g., low FODMAP diet)
• Stress management techniques
• Probiotics
• Medications (antispasmodics, antidepressants, anti-diarrheal agents)
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy

Treatment Options for Diverticulitis

• Antibiotics for infection
• Pain relief medications
• Liquid or low-fiber diet during acute episodes
• Surgery in severe or recurrent cases
• Lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence

Can dietary changes help manage both conditions? Yes, dietary modifications can play a significant role in managing both IBS and diverticulitis. A high-fiber diet is generally recommended for preventing diverticulitis, while identifying and avoiding trigger foods can help manage IBS symptoms.

Lifestyle Modifications and Prevention Strategies

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can significantly impact the management and prevention of both IBS and diverticulitis. While these conditions have different underlying causes, many lifestyle modifications can benefit both.

Dietary Recommendations

A balanced, fiber-rich diet is crucial for digestive health. For diverticulosis (the presence of diverticula without inflammation) and diverticulitis prevention, a high-fiber diet is typically recommended. This includes:

• Whole grains
• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Legumes
• Nuts and seeds (if tolerated)

For IBS, dietary recommendations may vary depending on individual triggers. Some general guidelines include:

• Avoiding trigger foods (common triggers include dairy, caffeine, and high-fat foods)
• Eating regular meals
• Staying hydrated
• Considering a low FODMAP diet under healthcare provider guidance

Exercise and Stress Management

Regular physical activity can help maintain digestive health and reduce the risk of both IBS flare-ups and diverticulitis. Exercise can help:

• Promote regular bowel movements
• Reduce stress, which can exacerbate IBS symptoms
• Maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of diverticulitis

Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can be particularly beneficial for those with IBS, as stress is a common trigger for symptoms.

Smoking Cessation and Alcohol Moderation

Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can have positive effects on overall digestive health. Smoking is a risk factor for diverticulitis, while alcohol can trigger IBS symptoms in some individuals.

How quickly can lifestyle changes impact digestive health? While some changes, like dietary modifications, may show results within a few weeks, others may take longer to have a noticeable effect. Consistency is key in implementing lifestyle changes for long-term digestive health.

The Role of Probiotics in Managing IBS and Diverticular Disease

Probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, have gained attention for their potential role in managing various digestive disorders, including IBS and diverticular disease. While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that probiotics may offer benefits for both conditions.

Probiotics and IBS

Several studies have investigated the use of probiotics in managing IBS symptoms. Some findings suggest that certain probiotic strains may help:

• Reduce abdominal pain and bloating
• Improve bowel movement frequency and consistency
• Alleviate overall IBS symptoms

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of probiotics can vary depending on the specific strains used and individual factors.

Probiotics and Diverticular Disease

While research on probiotics for diverticular disease is more limited, some studies suggest potential benefits:

• Reducing inflammation in the colon
• Preventing recurrence of diverticulitis
• Improving overall gut health

Are all probiotics equally effective for digestive health? No, different probiotic strains can have varying effects on digestive health. It’s important to choose probiotics that have been studied for the specific condition you’re trying to address and to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in IBS and Diverticulitis Management

As our understanding of digestive disorders continues to evolve, new research is shedding light on potential treatment approaches and management strategies for both IBS and diverticulitis.

Microbiome Research

The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in digestive health, and researchers are exploring how manipulating the microbiome could help manage IBS and diverticular disease. Areas of investigation include:

• Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for severe IBS
• Targeted probiotic therapies
• Personalized diet plans based on individual microbiome profiles

Genetic Studies

Genetic research is providing insights into the hereditary aspects of both IBS and diverticular disease. This could lead to:

• Better understanding of disease mechanisms
• Identification of individuals at higher risk
• Development of targeted therapies

Novel Treatment Approaches

Researchers are exploring new treatment options for both conditions, including:

• Targeted medications for specific IBS subtypes
• Non-antibiotic approaches to managing diverticulitis
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques for severe diverticulitis

How might future research impact the management of IBS and diverticulitis? As our understanding of these conditions grows, we may see more personalized treatment approaches, better prevention strategies, and potentially even ways to modify disease progression.

Living with IBS and Diverticular Disease: Coping Strategies and Support

Managing chronic digestive conditions like IBS and diverticular disease can be challenging, but various coping strategies and support systems can help improve quality of life.

Patient Education and Self-Management

Understanding your condition is crucial for effective self-management. This includes:

• Learning about triggers and how to avoid them
• Keeping a symptom diary to identify patterns
• Understanding when to seek medical attention

Support Groups and Counseling

Connecting with others who have similar experiences can be beneficial. Options include:

• Online forums and support groups
• Local in-person support groups
• Individual counseling or therapy, particularly for managing stress related to chronic illness

Work and Social Life Adjustments

Managing digestive disorders may require some lifestyle adjustments:

• Communicating with employers about necessary accommodations
• Planning ahead for social events and travel
• Developing strategies for eating out and attending social gatherings

How can patients effectively communicate their needs to healthcare providers and loved ones? Open and honest communication is key. Providing specific examples of how symptoms impact daily life can help others understand the challenges of living with these conditions.

In conclusion, while IBS and diverticulitis are distinct conditions with different underlying causes, they share some similarities in symptoms and management strategies. Understanding the differences and similarities between these conditions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. As research continues to advance our understanding of digestive disorders, we can look forward to more targeted and personalized approaches to managing both IBS and diverticular disease. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, working closely with healthcare providers, and utilizing available support systems, individuals with these conditions can significantly improve their quality of life and digestive health.

IBS and Diverticulitis: Differences, Causes, Treatments

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) refers to a group of symptoms that affect your digestive system. It often includes abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.

Diverticulitis falls into a group of diseases called diverticular disease. It’s characterized by inflammation of bulging pouches in your digestive tract called diverticula.

Some studies suggest that IBS is more common among people with diverticular disease, but the connection still is not clear.

Keep reading to learn more about the similarities and differences between IBS and diverticulitis and how they may be linked.

	IBS	Diverticulitis
Common symptoms	• constipation • abdominal pain • cramps • bloating • diarrhea	• constipation • abdominal pain • nausea and vomiting • fever • diarrhea (less common)
Causes	not completely known	inflammation of pouches in your intestines called diverticula
Prevalence	affects about 10 to 15 percent of people	• affects about 15 percent of people over age 60 who have diverticulosis (the presence of pouches) • about 200,000 people hospitalized with diverticulitis each year in the United States
Sex differences	1. 5 to 2 times more common in women than men	• under age 50, more common in men • over age 50, more common in women
Most common age	most commonly onsets in people younger than 50	• more common in older adults • average age of hospital admission is 63 years old

IBS is a common gastrointestinal disease. It’s characterized by abdominal pain and changes in the frequency and quality of your bowel movements. Symptoms tend to flare up periodically.

How IBS develops still is not well understood. But it’s been linked to:

• food passing through your gut too quickly or slowly
• an oversensitivity of the nerves in your gut
• stress
• family history (genetics)

Diverticulitis is a condition that develops in your large intestine (also called your colon). It’s caused by an infection in a diverticulum, which is a weakened area of your colon wall that can bulge out and form a pocket or pouch. Diverticula can range from pea-size to much larger pockets.

Diverticulitis develops when one of these pockets becomes inflamed and infected by bacteria in stool that gets pushed into the diverticula. You may feel pain in your abdomen and may also feel nauseous and feverish.

People with diverticulitis in Western societies, such as the United States or Europe, are much more likely to develop diverticula on their left side. But people of Asian descent are more likely to develop diverticula on their right side.

Some people have both IBS and diverticulitis, and misdiagnosis of the two conditions is common. A 2020 study found that about 1 in 5 initial cases of diverticulitis diagnosed without imaging were misdiagnosed.

Some studies suggest that some people with diverticular disease are more likely to develop IBS. But more research is needed to fully understand the link.

A 2014 study found that diverticular disease on the left side or both sides was associated with a higher risk of IBS in a Japanese population. Right-sided diverticular disease was not associated with this risk.

A 2020 study evaluated the association between IBS and diverticulitis. The researchers found that diverticulitis was 3.95 times more common in people with IBS than people without IBS. They also found that IBS was associated with a higher recurrence of diverticulitis.

Both diverticulitis and IBS can cause abdominal pain or discomfort. IBS pain usually relieves after a bowel movement, while diverticulitis pain is constant.

Diverticulitis most often causes pain in the lower left area of the abdomen. People of Asian descent are more likely to develop pain in their right side.

People with diverticulitis tend to be over 40 years old. Most cases of IBS develop before the age of 50.

Symptoms shared by both conditions include:

• abdominal pain
• constipation
• bloating

Symptoms more likely with IBS include:

• cramping
• mucus in bowel movements
• diarrhea
• pain easing after a bowel movement

Symptoms more likely with diverticulitis include:

• fever and chills
• nausea and vomiting
• abdominal tenderness
• pain coming on suddenly
• pain not easing after a bowel movement

The exact cause of IBS still is not known. It’s thought that an overly sensitive colon or immune system may contribute to this condition. Some evidence suggests that IBS is more common in people with diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis is caused by pouches in your large intestine that become inflamed and infected. These pouches can become inflamed or infected when bacteria or stool gets trapped in them.

Risk factors for diverticulitis include:

• a diet low in fiber and high in red meat
• physical inactivity
• obesity
• smoking
• a change in the balance of microbes (good bacteria) in your digestive tract
• the use of steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• genetic factors

A doctor can diagnose IBS by:

• reviewing your symptoms
• performing a physical exam
• reviewing your medical and family history

To diagnose diverticulitis, a doctor will likely:

• check your abdomen for tenderness
• review your medical history
• ask you about your symptoms and medications

To help confirm their diagnosis, a doctor may perform additional tests, such as:

• blood tests
• stool culture
• colonoscopy
• upper endoscopy
• computed tomography (CT) scan or X-ray
• pelvic exam
• urine test
• pregnancy test

You may be able to relieve your IBS symptoms by:

• eating no more than 3 portions of fresh fruit per day
• drinking no more than 3 cups of tea or coffee per day
• following a low FODMAP diet
• eating your food slowly
• limiting or avoiding spicy, processed, or fatty foods
• limiting or avoiding fizzy drinks
• taking probiotics
• cooking most of your meals at home using fresh ingredients

You may be able to ease diverticulitis symptoms by:

• following a liquid diet until pain subsides
• adding more high fiber foods to your diet
• avoiding foods that seem to trigger your symptoms

Incorporating the following habits into your daily life may help prevent or reduce symptoms of IBS and diverticulitis:

• Keep a journal of your symptoms and the foods you eat. This may help you pinpoint the foods that are triggering your symptoms.
• Try to get regular exercise. Regular, moderate exercise can help boost your overall health and well-being as well as decrease the severity of IBS symptoms.
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking water or other sugar-free beverages throughout the day. Avoid drinks that are flavored with artificial sweeteners, as these are known to worsen gas and diarrhea if you have IBS.
• Limit or avoid tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Try to incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily life, like breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation.
• Reduce the nonessential use of NSAIDs.

IBS and diverticulitis are both gastrointestinal conditions that can cause symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and changes to your bowel movements. But they are not the same condition and have different causes.

How or why IBS develops is not well understood. On the other hand, diverticulitis is caused by the inflammation of pouches that can develop within weakened parts of the large intestine. This can be a serious condition that requires hospitalization if the symptoms become severe.

If you think you may have one of these conditions, contact a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Once the condition has been accurately diagnosed, you can work with your doctor to build a treatment plan that’s right for you.

IBS and Diverticulitis: Differences, Causes, Treatments

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) refers to a group of symptoms that affect your digestive system. It often includes abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.

Diverticulitis falls into a group of diseases called diverticular disease. It’s characterized by inflammation of bulging pouches in your digestive tract called diverticula.

Some studies suggest that IBS is more common among people with diverticular disease, but the connection still is not clear.

Keep reading to learn more about the similarities and differences between IBS and diverticulitis and how they may be linked.

IBS is a common gastrointestinal disease. It’s characterized by abdominal pain and changes in the frequency and quality of your bowel movements. Symptoms tend to flare up periodically.

How IBS develops still is not well understood. But it’s been linked to:

• food passing through your gut too quickly or slowly
• an oversensitivity of the nerves in your gut
• stress
• family history (genetics)

Diverticulitis is a condition that develops in your large intestine (also called your colon). It’s caused by an infection in a diverticulum, which is a weakened area of your colon wall that can bulge out and form a pocket or pouch. Diverticula can range from pea-size to much larger pockets.

Diverticulitis develops when one of these pockets becomes inflamed and infected by bacteria in stool that gets pushed into the diverticula. You may feel pain in your abdomen and may also feel nauseous and feverish.

People with diverticulitis in Western societies, such as the United States or Europe, are much more likely to develop diverticula on their left side. But people of Asian descent are more likely to develop diverticula on their right side.

Some people have both IBS and diverticulitis, and misdiagnosis of the two conditions is common. A 2020 study found that about 1 in 5 initial cases of diverticulitis diagnosed without imaging were misdiagnosed.

Some studies suggest that some people with diverticular disease are more likely to develop IBS. But more research is needed to fully understand the link.

A 2014 study found that diverticular disease on the left side or both sides was associated with a higher risk of IBS in a Japanese population. Right-sided diverticular disease was not associated with this risk.

A 2020 study evaluated the association between IBS and diverticulitis. The researchers found that diverticulitis was 3.95 times more common in people with IBS than people without IBS. They also found that IBS was associated with a higher recurrence of diverticulitis.

Both diverticulitis and IBS can cause abdominal pain or discomfort. IBS pain usually relieves after a bowel movement, while diverticulitis pain is constant.

Diverticulitis most often causes pain in the lower left area of the abdomen. People of Asian descent are more likely to develop pain in their right side.

People with diverticulitis tend to be over 40 years old. Most cases of IBS develop before the age of 50.

Symptoms shared by both conditions include:

• abdominal pain
• constipation
• bloating

Symptoms more likely with IBS include:

• cramping
• mucus in bowel movements
• diarrhea
• pain easing after a bowel movement

Symptoms more likely with diverticulitis include:

• fever and chills
• nausea and vomiting
• abdominal tenderness
• pain coming on suddenly
• pain not easing after a bowel movement

The exact cause of IBS still is not known. It’s thought that an overly sensitive colon or immune system may contribute to this condition. Some evidence suggests that IBS is more common in people with diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis is caused by pouches in your large intestine that become inflamed and infected. These pouches can become inflamed or infected when bacteria or stool gets trapped in them.

Risk factors for diverticulitis include:

• a diet low in fiber and high in red meat
• physical inactivity
• obesity
• smoking
• a change in the balance of microbes (good bacteria) in your digestive tract
• the use of steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• genetic factors

A doctor can diagnose IBS by:

• reviewing your symptoms
• performing a physical exam
• reviewing your medical and family history

To diagnose diverticulitis, a doctor will likely:

• check your abdomen for tenderness
• review your medical history
• ask you about your symptoms and medications

To help confirm their diagnosis, a doctor may perform additional tests, such as:

• blood tests
• stool culture
• colonoscopy
• upper endoscopy
• computed tomography (CT) scan or X-ray
• pelvic exam
• urine test
• pregnancy test

You may be able to relieve your IBS symptoms by:

• eating no more than 3 portions of fresh fruit per day
• drinking no more than 3 cups of tea or coffee per day
• following a low FODMAP diet
• eating your food slowly
• limiting or avoiding spicy, processed, or fatty foods
• limiting or avoiding fizzy drinks
• taking probiotics
• cooking most of your meals at home using fresh ingredients

You may be able to ease diverticulitis symptoms by:

• following a liquid diet until pain subsides
• adding more high fiber foods to your diet
• avoiding foods that seem to trigger your symptoms

Incorporating the following habits into your daily life may help prevent or reduce symptoms of IBS and diverticulitis:

• Keep a journal of your symptoms and the foods you eat. This may help you pinpoint the foods that are triggering your symptoms.
• Try to get regular exercise. Regular, moderate exercise can help boost your overall health and well-being as well as decrease the severity of IBS symptoms.
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking water or other sugar-free beverages throughout the day. Avoid drinks that are flavored with artificial sweeteners, as these are known to worsen gas and diarrhea if you have IBS.
• Limit or avoid tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Try to incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily life, like breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation.
• Reduce the nonessential use of NSAIDs.

IBS and diverticulitis are both gastrointestinal conditions that can cause symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and changes to your bowel movements. But they are not the same condition and have different causes.

How or why IBS develops is not well understood. On the other hand, diverticulitis is caused by the inflammation of pouches that can develop within weakened parts of the large intestine. This can be a serious condition that requires hospitalization if the symptoms become severe.

If you think you may have one of these conditions, contact a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Once the condition has been accurately diagnosed, you can work with your doctor to build a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Diet for irritable bowel syndrome

7 foods to avoid if you have irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common disease of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Its symptoms are not unique: abdominal pain, diarrhea, increased flatulence. According to experts, about 10-15% of the world’s population experience such discomfort ¹ . The exact causes of IBS are unknown, but include stress, intestinal motility, heredity, or individual characteristics of the gastrointestinal tract.

In IBS, the intestinal walls become especially sensitive. Therefore, nutrition directly affects well-being. You can also help the intestines with the help of medicines. It is better to give preference to drugs for course treatment, because they not only relieve symptoms for a short time, but also fight the causes of the disease.

Below we will tell you which foods are better to exclude from your diet.

1. Milk and dairy products

There are two reasons why you should abstain from milk. First, they contain fats that irritate the intestines and can make diarrhea worse. Second, lactose is a sugar. It is not absorbed into the large intestine, and during fermentation it releases gases, which only increases flatulence ² .

What to replace? Try skim milk, and if your stomach continues to “resent”, switch to lactose-free: soy, almond, buckwheat or coconut.

2. Gluten

About celiac disease – an autoimmune disease caused by gluten intolerance – they started talking not so long ago. Since then, more and more often in stores you can find gluten-free bread, which costs more than usual. This is not a marketing gimmick, although only 1% of the population has the disease, there are studies that gluten sensitivity without celiac disease is also possible ³ .

What to replace: Gluten is almost everywhere. In bread, pasta, cereals and cookies. Try to avoid products with wheat, rye and barley. Fortunately, now shelves with the name “Gluten free” have appeared in stores.

3. Some kinds of nuts

Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. And it’s always a great snack. Cashews and pistachios are oligosaccharides, which are types of carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and cause fermentation in the large intestine ⁴ .

What to replace? Nuts that can be used for IBS. These include walnuts and pine nuts, peanuts, pecans and almonds (no more than 10 pieces per day).

4. Smoked products

Smoked fish and meat can also be harmful to the average person due to the carcinogens that are contained in the smoke. For people with IBS, smoked meats are contraindicated due to the high concentration of salt and carrageenan. This food additive is often used when smoking meat to increase mass. Studies show that carrageenan can cause peptic ulcers ⁵ .

What to replace? Lean meat and fish.

5. Products that cause gas

One of the symptoms of IBS is flatulence – an increased content of gases in the intestines. Most of these gases enter the body through swallowing, so doctors advise taking your time while eating. Another source of gases is the vital activity of microorganisms living in the large intestine ⁶ . Their fermentation can be controlled by eliminating legumes, all types of cabbage, mushrooms, grapes, pears, apples, peaches from the diet.

What to replace? Foods that reduce bloating: bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, corn, eggplant, asparagus, banana and ginger.

6. Products containing insoluble fiber

Despite the fact that fiber is not absorbed or digested by the body, it is necessary for the normal functioning of the intestines. Insoluble fiber cleanses the intestines and stimulates peristalsis, which can increase bloating and spasms ⁷ . Such products include beans, bran, cauliflower, nuts.

What to replace? Soluble fiber products. In the presence of liquid, it turns the contents of the stomach into jelly and easily removes it from the body. Therefore, soluble fiber is recommended for constipation. Product examples: rye bread, avocado, spinach, celery, raspberries and strawberries.

7. Alcohol

Alcohol makes the symptoms of IBS worse. Alcohol irritates the stomach, causing it to produce gastric juice saturated with hydrochloric acid ⁸ . In addition, alcohol may contain gluten (beer) or sugar (wine, vermouth and liqueurs).

What should I do if I have irritable bowel syndrome?

Above, we discussed how and why specific foods can exacerbate the symptoms of the disease. And now we will tell you how to support your body during an exacerbation. There are several causes of IBS, but most often it is a combination of malnutrition and stress.

A strict diet is also stressful. Do not rush to throw out harmful products from the list from the refrigerator. Start to give them up gradually, listening to the sensations. Keep a food diary so you can record improvements and focus on the foods that improve your digestion.

Find the source of stress and get rid of it. If this is not possible, start meditating or consult a psychologist.

Talk to your doctor – he can advise you on auxiliary drugs. The drug “Kolofort” allows you to comprehensively solve the problem of IBS, namely, due to active components, it can help reduce inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa, and allows you to normalize motor skills. The drug has antidepressant properties and allows you to stop the feeling of bloating, reduce the severity of pain.

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. IT IS NECESSARY TO CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST

Instructions for medical use of the drug Kolofort No. RU: LSR-006226/10

List of sources used

1. Statistics https://www.aboutibs.org/facts-about-ibs/statistics.html

2. Everything You Need to Know About Lactose Intolerance. Medically reviewed by Saurabh Sethi, MD, MPH on August 2, 2019— Written by Jacquelyn Cafasso https://www.healthline.com/health/lactose-intolerance

3. European Society for the Study of Coeliac Disease (ESsCD) guideline for coeliac disease and other gluten-related disorders. Department of Gastroenterology, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31210940

4. What Are Oligosaccharides? Learn All About the “O” in FODMAP! Erica Ilton https://www.fodmapeveryday.com/what-are-oligosaccharides/

5. Carrageenan New Studies Reinforce Link to Inflammation, Cancer and Diabetes Updated Report by The Cornucopia Institute | April 2016 https://www.cornucopia.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/CarageenanReport-2016.pdf

6.