Help Please - Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Message Board

stu25 · 03-10-2008, 06:13 PM

My soon to be wife was diagnosed with IBS about a year ago. since then it has got steadily worse, especially the discomfort caused by bloating. the bloating occurs nearly every time she eats now. I was wondering if anyone on here has any tips on how to control the bloating or gain a little comfort?

Thanks in advance!

Stu

Treyvanz · 03-11-2008, 06:49 AM

Hi Stu. I was diagnosed with IBS 5 years ago. The best thing that you can do to help her is to try and limit her to what she eats. My boyfriend really helps me by saying things like "you know you should'nt eat that" "you know what the consequences are if you eat that" kind of things. It really helps to have someone there to say these things, even though we know it already. When deciding on where to go for meals make it easier on her by choosing places that are some what healthy for her, even if it's not your favourite place. To control the discomfot my doctor suggested to me to start a diet journal. Write down what she eats everyday, symtoms she's feeling and types of b/m she has. Then go back and read it over. Look at the bad days she had and what she ate and try to limit herself to those foods (greasy things,caffeine,spicy foods etc.) It's all trial and error. Also if she eats alot of dairy products i suggest trying lactose free or soy products. This helped for me alot! Let me know how it goes
Trish

jrose1358 · 03-11-2008, 07:53 PM

I have been managing my IBS for a lot of years through diet modification. I, too keep a food journal and eliminate those foods that are offenders. For me it is any fast food, processed foods, most packaged foods, too much coffee, high fat and sugar foods, white breads and baked goods, and anything that is too spicy. I concentrate on lots of steamed veggies and fruits, small quantities of lean meats, lowfat dairy (especially yogurt), whole grains, and nuts and good fats like olive oil. I also eat small mini-meals about 5 times per day and this really helps me. Regular exercise is also essential for me and really helps to keep symptoms at bay. After many years of eating this way, it has become 2nd nature and I really am able to manage symptoms very well. Good luck and I think it is wonderful that you wish to be so supportive of her. She is a lucky lady! jrose