In those with IBS, foods high in fiber can cause symptoms related to the disorder. If you suffer from chronic constipation, high fiber foods can help get the bowels regular. Constipation in people who suffer from IBS can be helped by consuming more fluids, adding fiber, and watching the size of the meal they eat. Increases in fiber should be done slowly over a few weeks.
What causes IBS
Pain in the abdomen, gas, and bowel movements which are irregular are characteristics of IBS. Spasming muscles in the colon sometimes lead to constipation or diarrhea. If you often have stools which are hard and dry and difficult to rid your body of, you could have IBS that is constipation-predominate. The colon …show more content…
Twenty to thirty-five grams of fiber per day is what you should work up to, gradually. You can find great sources of fiber in foods such as fruits, legumes, breads made from whole wheats, and cereals. To reduce fat while increasing fiber you should substitute meat with beans a few times each week. Interchange cheese for salad. Breakfast is a great time for oatmeal with added bananas rather than a doughnut.
Fiber Types
Soluble and insoluble are the two types of fiber. For people with IBS, insoluble fibers often cause reactions in the intestines. Foods high in this fiber are some fruits and vegetables, and wheat brans. This type of fiber does not digest. People without IBS find this type of fiber to add bulk to stool which stimulates the colon but in people with IBS it can be the cause of diarrhea, bloating, and gas. Constipation can also be resolved by eating food with soluble fiber, such as beans, citrus fruits, whole oats, and apples.
Things to Consider
Constipation can worsen if fiber is added too quickly. Fluids should be increased as you increase your fiber. Monitor the reactions your bowels have to foods, and eat smaller meals, four or five, each day. People with IBS often report wheat to be a