Even though dairy products are the major culprits of discomfort for some IBS sufferers, yogurt proves to be an exception. The live cultures in the yogurt break down the lactose, so it's less likely to cause gassy symptoms.
Furthermore, you should purchase plain, low-fat yogurt. Greek yogurt is another good option, but it should be plain and unsweetened. If you find plain yogurt hard to stomach, consider adding low-fructose fruits such as berries or, better yet, nuts, which also help with IBS symptoms and have high levels of fiber.
A recent study showed that consuming 2 to 3 cups of homemade yogurt - containing Lactobacillus - on a daily basis lead to the complete relief of IBS symptoms along with 1-2 normal bowel movements daily.
An IBS flare-up can be frustrating and may cause a range of digestive symptoms. If you're experiencing a flare, there are several at-home remedies you can try, such as gut-directed hypnotherapy, removing high-FODMAP foods from your diet, heat therapy, avoiding caffeine, exercising, and reducing stress.
Foods to Eat When You Have Diarrhea From IBS. The BRAT diet is often recommended to help bind loose or watery stools. 3 BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
Even though dairy products are the major culprits of discomfort for some IBS sufferers, yogurt proves to be an exception. The live cultures in the yogurt break down the lactose, so it's less likely to cause gassy symptoms.
Increase the amount of fibre in your diet, for example: cereals, e.g. All Bran®, Bran Flakes®, Weetabix®, muesli, fruit and vegetables and brown bread. You must however drink plenty of water: 1-1½ litres a day. Eat your meals slowly and chew food thoroughly.
Tips for an IBS-Friendly Diet
Try eating smaller meals, more often, spread throughout your day. Instead of 3 meals, try 5 or 6 regularly scheduled small meals. Slow down; don't rush through meals. Avoid meals that over-stimulate everyone's gut, like large meals or high-fat foods.
For individuals with constipation-predominant IBS, a soluble fiber supplement (Metamucil or others containing psyllium) can be helpful. Large amounts of fiber can hinder the absorption of medications, so take your medications one to two hours before the fiber supplement.
Porridge
Porridge oats contain a high amount of soluble fiber, which could help relieve IBS symptoms, according to the NIDDK . A person could add fiber to their diet gradually to avoid triggering gas.
Some of the best foods for IBS include: Eggs. Eggs are easy to digest and don't upset the colon. Also, they are a great source of protein as part of a weekly diet.
Insoluble fiber may make IBS symptoms worse.
Nuts. Beans. Vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, and potatoes.
Eggs digest easily and are a safe choice for people with IBS. Eggs can be enjoyed hard-boiled, soft-boiled, scrambled, or poached. Omelets and frittatas can be your meal of choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and make a great option when eating out in a restaurant.
Avocados contain FODMAPs that can trigger IBS symptoms and may be high, moderate, or low in FODMAPs depending on how much you eat. In terms of portion sizes, 1/8 of an avocado is considered low-FODMAP and should be safe to eat if you have IBS.
Several studies have shown improvements in symptoms in response to a lactose-free diet in a significant proportion of IBS patients (4, 5). Beyond lactose, other components of milk and dairy foods such as casein may also trigger IBS symptoms (6, 7).
According to this guide, almond, hemp, and coconut milks may work for people with IBS. Just pay attention to your serving size. You may also want to try kefir. The fermentation process lowers lactose to a better level for those with IBS and lactose intolerance.
Although butter does not contain enough lactose to be classed as high FODMAP, it may still trigger your IBS symptoms. 100g of butter contains 81g of fat, making it a high-fat product. Some people find that high fat foods can trigger their IBS symptoms (5, 6).
However, peanut butter and jelly on white may not sit well with people who have IBS, so sandwiches need some new ingredients. Bread such as sourdough and French are delicious alternatives to plain white bread. Skip the lunch meat, cheese, and mayonnaise and try soy, tofu, or seafood alternatives.
Don't skip meals, says Natalie Brown, a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant in South Surrey, BC. 'When we go through long gaps without eating, it's easy for the digestive system to fill up with extra air, and you'll get more cramping and bloating. '