Are food sensitivities common with IBS? - Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Message Board

mollipop · 10-22-2003, 11:28 PM

Hello all. I was just diagnosed with IBS one month ago, but I've had the symptoms (constipation, bloating, horrible pains in the stomach, etc.) since I was at least 11 years old. I'm 23 now. Zelnorm is horrible--I don't know why all those women in the commercial are smiling. Anyway, I think certain foods are really bothering me but don't know which since I have stomach pains/problems every day. I don't eat anything regularly either, like, say, milk every day. I tried to do a food elimination diet once but there is so much conflicting info that I gave up after one day. Should I talk to my doctor? Any suggestions?

Frustrated1 · 10-23-2003, 07:33 AM

I believe there is a definite connection between food sensitivities and food. After going to three doctors I found out if I eliminated wheat from my system, my IBS attacks were reduced significantly. I also have lactose intolerance which has very similary symptoms.

I would suggest that you keep a food diary that charts the food you eat, how it was prepared, the time of day and when symptons develop. Depending on your sensitivity your symptoms may develop at a different rate than others. Diary, nuts and wheat are the most common. Other things that based on this board have some affect is sugar, alcohol and artifical sweenteners.

I am glad you have been diagnosed and it should help you to be proactive in your evaluation.

Good Luck

Harry · 10-23-2003, 01:17 PM

Frust is right--- everyone that has IBS is intolerant to 1 or more foods. The problems is not easy to identify them. Sometimes you'll have a reaction to them other times you may not.

You have to keep diary of both food as well as what you drink.

I wish you well---Harry

[This message has been edited by Harry (edited 10-23-2003).]

maggie39 · 10-31-2003, 11:34 AM

Definately! My doctor believes all IBS are undiagnosed food intolerances. I finally figured out that I can't digest fructose. Been fine ever since as long as I stay away from it. The elimination diet is very difficult and tedious but believe me it is the best thing you can do for yourself. You may find you have problems related to this you never even knew of. For example, I can't believe how much more energy I have now - I didnt even realize what a slug I'd been!
Start with several easy things that you think are ok, like plain chicken, plain rice maybe a simple green salad and plain oatmeal for breakfast. (Make everything yourself, so you know what's in it- store bought stuff has too many ingredients). Eat this same thing for three days (yes, BORING!). IT can take that long for food to get through your gut, so you need to go that long AT LEAST before adding something new. Then each time you add a new thing (and write everything down) wait another 3 days before adding then next thing. Its very hard but well worth it!

Frustrated1 · 11-11-2003, 09:59 AM

I cannot agree more with the cooking part of your post. This is probably the best advice I could give anyone. It is difficult to know what commerical places prepare and cook your food. Many of the people at these places do not know.
Good Luck.