11 Tummy Taming Tips: Navigating Your Way Through The IBS Diet Maze

5. Enjoy Chicken And Fish

Irritable bowel syndrome patients often find they enjoy chicken and fish as part of their diet. These foods are comprised mostly of protein, which is easy for the body to digest, and since it does not ferment in the gut, it will not cause the patient to have gas. Experts suggest individuals with IBS choose white meat chicken instead of dark meat. White meat chicken is generally leaner than dark meat, and it does not contain the inflammation-causing fats that may be found in some dark meat. The high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in fish might help irritable bowel syndrome patients reduce the inflammation that contributes to their symptoms. To avoid potential toxins in fish, IBS patients are advised to choose wild-caught, organic fish instead of factory-raised fish. Salmon, mackerel, herring, white fish, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3s.

6. Consider Avoiding Gluten

Not everybody with irritable bowel syndrome has a gluten intolerance, but there is a larger prevalence of gluten intolerance in patients with this condition than in individuals without it. If individuals are not sure whether gluten affects them, they should try avoiding it for a few weeks and see if their symptoms improve. Gluten is found in whole grains like wheat, barley, and rye. This protein sometimes causes allergic reactions. If individuals are allergic to gluten, the condition is known as celiac disease. Celiac disease can sometimes present with symptoms similar to those of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea predominance. Celiac disease is classified as an autoimmune disorder because it occurs when the immune system attacks healthy tissues. This reaction happens when individuals eat gluten, and the disease can cause changes to intestinal cells over time. In turn, this leads to trouble absorbing nutrients and further intestinal distress.