Nutrition Science and Everyday Application - beta v 0.1

DISORDERS OF THE GI TRACT 157
IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a type of functional GI disorder, meaning that it’s caused
by a disruption in the signals between the brain and gut. People suffering from IBS often
experience abdominal pain, bloating, the feeling that they can’t finish a bowel movement,
as well as diarrhea or constipation or both, often in cycles. IBS is common; about 12%
of people in the U.S. are thought to have it. It’s more common in women, seems to run
in families, and is often associated with stress, history of trauma, or severe GI infections.
IBS isn’t well understood. It’s not clear what causes it, and it may have different causes in
different people. 5
Of course, since the cause of IBS isn’t understood, that lack of understanding makes it
difficult to treat. Some people find that eating more fiber-rich foods and increasing physical
activity improve their symptoms, so these are good first steps (and good for health
regardless of their effect on IBS). Others find that following a diet that is low in carbohydrates
called FODMAPs helps their symptoms. FODMAPs are fermentable carbohydrates found in
many foods and can usually be eaten without issue by most people. Foods that are high in
FODMAPs include fruits, vegetables, legumes, dairy products, wheat, and honey, so this is a
very restrictive diet and should only be attempted with the guidance of a dietitian. Without
careful planning, a low-FODMAP diet can be deficient in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is
usually followed for just a few weeks, and if it helps with symptoms, foods are gradually
added back to see what can be tolerated. 6,7