The Step by Step Guide to Managing IBS

Getting a diagnosis

If you have any of the common IBS symptoms (listed below) on a regular basis, it is very important that you discuss them with your GP – don’t ignore them!

To get an accurate diagnosis, your GP may rule out conditions such as bowel cancer, coeliac disease, Chrohns Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. This is often done through various blood tests and scans. 

Causes of IBS

The actual cause of IBS is still unknown, however what is known is that it is a chronic disorder; where symptoms can vary in frequency and severity. 

Common IBS symptoms

·  Bloating

·  Constipation

·  Diarrhoea

·  Abdominal pain and discomfort

·  Heartburn

·  Nausea

·  Excessive wind

·  A noisy/gurgling abdomen

See an Accredited Practising Dietitian

Many people who suspect they have IBS will start to change their diet in an attempt to control their symptoms. However, if you suspect food is a culprit, we recommend that you consult with one of our dietitians first, as you may end up cutting out more than you need to, which could lead you to miss out on vital nutrients in your diet. Our dietitians can help you replace foods you need to limit with other nutritious foods, to ensure your diet is balanced and nutritionally adequate. 

Creating Good Gut Health Habits

Many people I see in clinic often aren’t looking after their gut at all. Yes, they may have IBS, but they are not necessarily taking the right basic steps that even a healthy gut would need. 

Could you confidently say that you are….

– Exercising regularly?

– Getting enough sleep?

– Eating enough fibre (25g for women, 30g for men) daily? 

– Eating regularly?

– Drinking enough water? 

– Doing daily stress management exercises?

STEP 2: IDENTIFYING YOUR TRIGGERS

Although there is no ‘cure’ for IBS, finding out your triggers can mean that you avoid symptom flare ups. 

Common IBS triggers

·  Caffeine

·  Spicy Foods

·  Irregular meal patterns

·  Alcohol 

·  Fatty/deep fried foods

·  FODMAPS

·  Stress/Anxiety

It is not recommended that you necessarily avoid all of these triggers, as everyone is different and you may end up unnecessarily avoiding foods or situations. However, working with a dietitian to find out which triggers cause your symptoms is a great way to get relief from your IBS.

The Low FODMAP Diet

FODMAPs are another type of trigger that can cause an issue in those with IBS. FODMAPs are sugars that occur naturally in foods, but can also be adding during food processing.

Below is a table of some of the common high FODMAP foods.You will notice that many of these foods are incredibly healthy, so it is important to remember that a low FODMAP diet is not designed to be followed long term. Following a low FODMAP diet for a period of 4-6 weeks can help with IBS. However, it is very important that this is done under the guidance of a dietitian. After the period of 4-6 weeks, FODMAPs are reintroduced one group at a time to find out which ones are triggering symptoms.