Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the intestines, without inflammation or tissue damage. The main cause is related to disturbances in bowel movements, which can be caused by stress, diet or changes in gut bacteria.
One of the most common mistakes people with IBS make is over-restricting their diet. In the long run, this can actually make their condition worse. Over-restricting your diet can lead to a more sensitive gut, nutritional deficiencies, and a reduced quality of life. Over-restriction can also create a cycle of anxiety and stress around food. Stress can trigger IBS symptoms, according to a study published in the journal BPG.
Rather than cutting out entire food groups or severely restricting your diet, a more effective approach is to identify specific triggers through a short-term elimination diet, which involves temporarily eliminating common trigger foods and then gradually reintroducing them to determine which ones are actually causing your symptoms. This approach allows you to maintain a balanced diet while still managing your IBS, says registered dietitian Bonnie Roney.
