Proper Nutrition for Irritable Bowel Disease

—Jill Fandrich, PharmD, CRPh

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing irritable bowel disease (IBD) and alleviating its symptoms. Here are some key guidelines to follow:

1. Eat a well-balanced diet - Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals. Aim for a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

2. High-fiber foods - Include soluble and insoluble fiber in your diet to help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation or diarrhea. Good sources include whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. However, if you have active inflammation or strictures, you may need to limit fiber intake as it can worsen symptoms.

3. Limit trigger foods - Everyone's triggers are different, so it's essential to identify and avoid foods that worsen your symptoms. Common trigger foods include spicy foods, greasy or fried foods, caffeine, alcohol, carbonated drinks, and foods high in lactose or artificial sweeteners. Keep a food journal to track your symptoms and identify potential triggers.

4. Small, frequent meals - Instead of having large meals, opt for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This can help ease digestion and prevent overwhelming your digestive system.

5. Hydrate adequately - Drink plenty of water to maintain hydration and support normal bowel movements. Avoid excessive intake of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages that can dehydrate the body and worsen symptoms.

6. Probiotics - Consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, or kimchi into your diet. These can help support gut health by introducing beneficial bacteria to the digestive system.

7. Omega-3 fatty acids - Include sources of omega-3 fatty acids like fatty fish like salmon, flaxseeds, chia seeds, or walnuts in your diet. These healthy fats have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

8. Supplements - Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if you need any supplements. Some individuals with IBD may require additional vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, calcium, iron, or B vitamins.

Remember, working with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional familiar with IBD is crucial to developing a personalized nutrition plan that suits your specific needs and addresses your symptoms.

Proper nutrition is the cornerstone for managing Irritable Bowel Disease, as it nourishes both the body and the mind, paving the path toward healing and balance.

—Dr. Jill

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