Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition marked by abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and constipation or diarrhea. In some cases. one can even suffer from this condition throughout their life. But, the good news is that the symptoms of IBS can be easily managed by following certain good and healthy habits. Here is how you can start treating irritable bowel syndrome with smart diet choices.

1. Following low FODMAP meals
Certain carbs are tougher than others for the body to break down. These come in the Fermentable, Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, Sugar Alcohols, and Polyols (FODMAP) category. Your doctor will guide you on how to go about avoiding these types of carbs if you have IBS. Since all the sources of these carbohydrates cannot be removed instantaneously, the process followed is that of a gradual but steady reduction. Some foods that you should avoid as part of low FODMAP meals include baked beans, cabbage, cauliflower, chickpeas, dairy products, soybeans, watermelon, and processed, refined wheat foods like pizza. Artificial sweeteners also do not agree well with IBS symptoms. Foods that work well as part of low FODMAP meals include bananas, grapes, oranges, eggplant, sweet potato, carrots, green beans, and spinach, among others.

2. Increasing intake of soluble fiber
Dietary fiber comes in two main types, i.e. soluble fibers and insoluble fibers. Soluble fibers help to soften stools and work well for patients suffering constipation from IBS. These are found in foods such as beans, lentils peas, nuts and seeds, and some fruits and vegetables. They can also be consumed in the form of a food supplement. On the other hand, insoluble fibers help add bulk to stools as it does not break down too easily in the body. These fibers can be found in dietary sources such as whole-grain foods, certain vegetables, oats, and wheat bran, among others.

3. Go lactose-free
The consumption of dairy products can trigger a host of health issues in people suffering from digestive complaints. One of the best ways of treating irritable bowel syndrome naturally is to go lactose-free in one’s diet. This means skipping cow’s milk in favor of almond milk or soy milk. Yogurt is one of the few dairy products that are good for your digestive health due to its probiotic’s properties. Butter can also be safely consumed without causing major digestive problems. This is not to say that you need to completely boycott milk products; rather, consume them in moderation.

4. Reduce dependence on artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners are known to worsen the symptoms of IBS as they can disrupt the intestine and cause more discomfort. Patients suffering from IBS are advised to switch to stevia or maple syrup as sugar substitutes. These form a part of a low-FODMAP meal plan and do not interfere with on-going treatments for IBS.  Finally, treating irritable bowel syndrome also requires proper medical intervention so do speak to your physician about any recurrent symptoms that you need help with.