Although there is no complete cure for IBS, certain steps and precautions can definitely help in easing the pain and making life more bearable. Since it is a problem related to the stomach and intestines, diet is one of the most common aspects of treatment. To a large extent, most physicians, dieticians and researchers agree on the kind of diet that should be followed. However, maintaining a record that contains the details about the symptoms, the time they were experienced and the food eaten during that period can be used to formulate a diet for an individual. Generally, a good and balanced diet can make a world of a difference to IBS patients.

Foods that are high in fat, insoluble fiber, caffeine, carbonated drinks, alcohol and certain milk products could cause IBS. Overeating or irregular eating habits may also lead to IBS.

It is a widely accepted fact that food that is high in fiber content is one of the most important parts of the IBS diet. Fruits (like apples and peaches), vegetables (like broccoli, carrots, raw cabbage, peas, breads, cereals and beans are all examples of food with high fiber content. These types of foods make bowel movements easier by making the stool soft and bulky. However, the body has to get used to the food with high fiber content, so it should be introduced slowly and steadily into the diet.

Apart from diet, certain other considerations also need to be taken into account. Overeating or eating snacks between meals should be avoided. Smaller meals at regular intervals of time instead of large ones spaced out are recommended.

IBS patients need not necessarily avoid eating in restaurants or confine their diet to only healthy food. There has to be a balance of cautious and sensible eating. Studies show that a reformed diet does go a long way in helping one cope with the problem of IBS.