I am a 33 yr. old male and have been suffering from IBS since college.

I recently have made a serious effort to consistently eat better to cure or at least mitigate my symptoms.

I have been eating a large bowl of bran cereal each morning, with the rest of the day consisting of two medium green apples, more vegetables, whole grain versus white bread, a banana, and lots of water (64+ oz.).

I am eating at the higher end of the recommended daily dosage of fiber (around 35-40 grams).

I have been rather bloated (like large snakes writhing around in my stomach), strong sense of tension especially on my right side under the rib cage when I slouch or sit in a chair, very gurgly stomach, and few bad attacks of watery stool, although I have also had some great solid stools like the "normal" pre-IBS days of my teenage youth.

Is this normal when you switch to a better colon/anti-IBS diet? Should I work through it and will it get better?

Or is my change too drastic?

Thoughts?

Thanks-

I would definitely say you've changed your diet too drastically too quickly. I tried this once and ended up in ER with an intestinal blockage from bran! I would suggest you first try soluble fibre - includes rice, pasta, white breads, bananas, applesauce, potatoes. Insoluble fibre which includes wheat products, raw fruits and veggies especially with peel and beans can be especially irritating to the colon of those with IBS. I would recommend reading Heather Van Vorous' books on IBS for excellent ways to change your diet. I've had the most improvement from following her diet.

PS - I just noticed your previous post. Heather's books also address triggers for IBS and tips on reducing stress.