Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS has become a common health condition in today’s time. As per last year’s stats report, from 9 -23% of our general population has been suffering from IBS. Also, it has been calculated that almost 80% of these patients are women. It is a common disorder that targets your stomach and intestine, as a result, you may notice excessive bloating, gas issues, abdominal pain, constipation as well as diarrhea symptoms. However, you do not have to worry about colon cancer or digestive tract damage from IBS. Medication, food, and lifestyle modifications are frequently effective ways to treat symptoms.
The condition may arise due to various factors like a processed food diet, stress, hormonal fluctuation, and more. But making sensible eating choices can help people live happier, more comfortable lives with greater digestive health. Thus, in order to lessen discomfort and improve their quality of life, it’s imperative that individuals with IBS make knowledgeable food decisions.
In this post, we will highlight some of the top foods that one must avoid in an IBS diet.
1. Raw onion
Raw onions are often used in Indian families in the form of salad or for adding a side taste to the dish. It is also used in many cuisines across the globe for its unique flavor and versatility. However, people already suffering from IBS health conditions might exacerbate their existing symptoms. As a result, you may feel more pain and discomfort.
Specific to those with IBS, fructans, a type of carbohydrate, can ferment in the stomach and cause gas, bloating, and pain. Cooking onions helps break down and simplify these compounds.
2. Raw Tomatoes
Another ingredient that people must avoid during IBS conditions is raw tomatoes. Tomatoes are acidic and might cause irritation in the digestive system, especially when eaten raw. Also, it is not a great solution for people with sensitive stomachs.
Additionally, the natural ingredient comprises certain carbohydrates and fibers that may eventually lead to gas and bloating issues. Hence, it is best to invest your time in consuming cooked tomatoes or peeled ones. If not, you might end up visiting hospitals for the right treatment.
3. Oily spicy foods
IBS symptoms can be made worse by high-fat foods, such as fried and oily dishes, which slow down digestion and cause bowel spasms. Although, we all love eating spicy food as it tastes good and makes us feel full. However, eating too much spicy food may also aggravate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort and inflammation. Hence, it is recommended to go for lighter, less greasy options in the food menu and reduce the amount of spice in your food items. By adapting these basic practices, you can surely help manage your symptoms.
4. Excessive grains
It is often said by health practitioners and experts that consuming whole grains is great for our body as it is an excellent source of dietary fiber that comes with various health benefits. However, some people may find that a high-gluten diet makes their irritable bowel syndrome symptoms worse. Hence, it is preferable to restrict or prevent consumption for those who are intolerant to gluten, which is present in wheat, barley, and rye.
5. Cabbage
We all have heard that broccoli and cauliflower come with high nutritional value and are highly beneficial for our health. But there is a certain element or carbohydrate, named Raffinose, present in cabbage and similar cruciferous vegetables that can induce gas or bloating issues. Hence, especially those people with IBS must avoid its consumption. Or else, steam or boiling these vegetables will help break down their complex carbohydrates and make them easier to digest.
If your bowel habits have changed consistently or you experience other IBS symptoms, consult your doctor. They could be signs of something more dangerous, like colon cancer. Do not ignore the signs or else you might need more care and rest that too with medical bills.
The Takeaway
Choosing foods wisely is crucial to controlling irritable bowel syndrome.
IBS is not an acute health condition; it can cause several complications if not treated well. You may feel pain and discomfort as a result. Hence, make sure to work on your diet and follow the above top foods that you must not incorporate into your diet.
Eating less raw onions, raw tomatoes, fatty, spicy foods, too many cereals, and cabbage will help reduce symptoms and improve overall digestive health. Additionally, for individuals with IBS, portion control and moderate cooking methods may improve digestive system health and comfort.
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