The IBS diet is a diet designed to reduce the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder of the bowel, also known as the colon or large intestine. Symptoms of IBS may include abdominal pain, cramping, excessive gas, chronic diarrhea and constipation, mucus in stool, bloating, and the feeling that the bowels are not completely empty after elimination.

Irritable bowel syndrome is not considered a disease and it is not known what causes it. Because the symptoms of IBS are similar to other gastrointestinal disorders, such as ulcerative colitis, a doctor will use a series of criteria known as the Rome III Diagnostic Criteria to determine whether a patient has IBS. The Rome III criteria are:

• Abdominal pain is relived by a bowel movement.

• Symptoms are associated with a change of frequency in bowel movements.

• Abdominal pain is linked to a change in appearance and consistency of stool.

There is no cure for IBS; however, a doctor may prescribe medication to relieve the symptoms caused by the disorder. It is also known that stress can exacerbate the symptoms of IBS; therefore a doctor may also recommend techniques that reduce stress or help the patient more effectively cope with stress.

Certain foods and drinks can cause or make the symptoms of IBS worse. The IBS diet consists of foods high in fiber such as oatmeal, pasta, rice, fruit, bread, and certain vegetables. Foods high in fiber can make it easier for stool to pass and ease the constipation associated with IBS. It should be noted however that the increased consumption of fiber, especially insoluble fiber such as wheat bran, can actually trigger symptoms of IBS. When beginning the IBS diet, it is important to consult with a doctor to determine the most effective foods to consume.

Just as important as the foods that are consumed on the IBS diet, are the foods that should be avoided whenever possible. Foods with higher fat content, dairy products such as cheese, milk, ice cream, chocolate, and drinks with caffeine, carbonation or alcohol may trigger or worsen IBS symptoms. Patients on the IBS diet are also generally urged to eat smaller meals about four to five times a day and to drink lots of fluids, except for those which may make the symptoms of IBS worse.