IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is a very common problem that affects about a fifth of Americans. IBS is known by other names as well, such as spastic bowel, spastic colitis, spastic colon, and functional bowel syndrome.

IBS is usually classified as a functional disorder. A functional disorder refers to a disorder where the problem is an abnormality in a bodily function, but the causes of that disorder are difficult to pinpoint. A functional disorder usually cannot be diagnosed through regular methods. This is because it is not an infection. It is not an inflammation. It is also not a structural abnormality either. Because of that, commonly used testing methods such as x-rays or blood tests cannot detect it.

The symptoms of IBS may include constipation, diarrhea, abdominal cramps and pains, bloating, excessive flatulence, and nausea. If you have been encountering these symptoms over a period, consult a physician.

How is IBS diagnosed?

To determine if you have IBS, visit your doctor. The doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms. He will try to discern a pattern; such as, how long you have been suffering, what food you have been eating, etc. This line of questioning may lead to information concluding that you have IBS. The time factor is important here; if you have had the symptoms for an extended period, it is probable that you have the disorder; if not, something else might be the cause. Your doctor will conduct further tests if the diagnosis cannot be easily reached.

Does food cause IBS?

While it may seem that food is the direct source of your IBS problems, the truth is that food does not lead to the disorder. However, food can make you feel worse. If you eat the wrong types of food, your symptoms can become much worse, which means more pain and discomfort for you.

Fatty foods like chocolate should be avoided. The same thing goes for with milk, ice cream, and other dairy items. Alcohol, carbonated drinks, and caffeine should be kept at a minimum as well.

Remember to take note of the foods that seem to lead to IBS symptoms. Keep a food “diary”. It will help you to pinpoint the offending food items. Once you have identified these foods, avoid them as you do rattlesnakes. You will be sacrificing a small portion of your gastronomic possibilities, true, but remember that you will be giving yourself more comfort and better health. Eating a bar of chocolate might make you feel good for about ten minutes, but keep in mind that it might cause you hours of bathroom misery.

On the other hand, certain types of food might help you keep the symptoms of IBS at bay. Fiber rich foods are highly recommended. Fruits like peaches and apples, and vegetables like broccoli are excellent choices. Dried and stewed fruits like prunes, raisins, and apricots are also helpful.

You might want to consult a few health books and find fiber rich foods that you would like. Do not increase your fiber intake too quickly though; give your body a little time to adjust to the change. Persist in your new and improved diet though, and you will soon see results.