Food and IBS: Don't Blame What You Eat for Your IBS!

When it comes to food and IBS, a lot of people seem to get confused about a few things. Many people think that there is a connection between consumption of certain foods and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

People should know that when it comes to food and IBS, food has nothing to do with the condition. It is simple -- people cannot get an inflammatory bowel condition from eating. People also cannot cure their IBS by what they eat or don't eat. Many people believe that junk food can cause IBS and eating certain things, like organic foods, can cure IBS.

Those misconceptions are just the tip of the iceberg of all of the wives' tales that run rampant about food and IBS. Some people believe their IBS was caused by food poisoning that they had previously contracted. Others claim that their doctor told them to stay away from dairy and gluten foods, and think that if they stop eating these foods that their colitis will simply go away.

These are just a few examples of the erroneous information given out about food and IBS. Just in case you were wondering, neither of the above issues, food poisoning or eating dairy and gluten foods, causes IBS. And, IBS will not be cured by staying away from dairy and gluten foods. Those who have some form of IBS usually have a pre-existing condition that has nothing to do with food ingestion.

However, fiber-rich foods do have a connection. For example, if a person has a chronic gastrointestinal condition and they eat foods high in fiber, then a person's condition may become further aggravated. This person could up getting diarrhea, gas, bloating, or pain. This is really the only legitimate food and IBS connection. Remember, food is not responsible for your IBS but it may occasionally irritate the condition.

However, there is one food rule too keep in mind if you suffer from IBS. Eating a diet that is low in fiber can be beneficial until a person with IBS is healed. Once a person is healed, they will be able to consume whatever food that they desire. When trying to heal from IBS, try avoiding consumption of dairy and/or wheat, both of which have been known to aggravate the condition.

Bottom line - the consumption of certain foods cannot cause nor cure your irritable bowel condition. Food and IBS are remotely connected in terms of worsening your IBS symptoms, but don't blame food for your IBS condition.