Suffering from irritable bowel syndrome? Avoid these foods

Image for representational purpose only

New Delhi: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common problem which affects the large intestine causing abdominal cramping, bloating, and a change in bowel habits. But, symptoms of IBS can be managed by making simple changes in your diet and lifestyle.

So, here are some foods to avoid if you are suffering from IBS:

Alcohol

Avoid drinking alcohol as it can induce or worsen IBS symptoms. It can affect the motility of the digestive tract.So, one should limit alcohol intake to no more than two units per day.

High-fat meals

High-fat meals have been shown to worsen symptoms in IBS. Studies have shown that people with IBS have a more sensitive gut following a high-fat meal than healthy people. Fatty foods are thought to alter gut motility, and effect gut hormone release which may further influence motility. So, avoid eating common high-fat foods like fried meats, chips, sausages, pizza, pies, crisps and creamy sauces.

Caffeine

Caffeine can worsen IBS symptoms by increasing gut motility, and stress hormones such as cortisol which may lead to over activation of the gut-brain axis. It is said that caffeine is not only found in tea and coffee, but in many soft drinks and energy drinks also.

Spicy food

One should avoid eating hot and spicy dishes as they are trigger of IBS-like symptoms. The active component of chilli is called capsaicin, which has been shown to increase gut motility and abdominal pain in some individuals.