When readers last stopped by, they found out a few ways to reduce IBS symptoms for both diarrhea and constipation. Today, we are continuing the IBS series. Our Orlando gastro doctors hope to help readers and patients relieve IBS symptoms until they can be seen by our experienced gastro team.

First-line recommendations:

If you have not already read our last blog, read it and come on back. Now that you are all caught up, we will share more ways to relieve IBS symptoms. In addition to trying a low-FODMAP diet, doctors may recommend adhering to a regular meal pattern while slowly reducing the consumption of the following foods:

  • caffeine
  • alcohol
  • insoluble fiber
  • spicy foods
  • fat

Regular exercise can do wonders for IBS. When bowel movements are not regular with diet adjustments, exercise may get things moving. Getting the entire body moving can make all the difference.

If the previous interventions fail to provide relief, secondary measures may be necessary. Implementing a low-FODMAP or gluten-free diet can get bowel movements regular and relieve IBS symptoms. It is best to do so under the guidance of an experienced healthcare professional.

When improvements are lacking or inconsistent, additional changes may be required. Tinkering may involve the identification of food triggers. Distinguishing between food allergies and intolerances is important, and once they are identified, they can be avoided.

In addition to seeking guidance from a gastroenterologist, meeting with a dietician can prove useful. Meeting daily nutritional goals may be challenging when plenty of foods a patient usually eats must soon be avoided.

Celiac disease:

The following are signs and symptoms of celiac disease:

  • abdominal pain
  • constipation
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • bloating
  • gas
  • fatigue
  • diarrhea

In addition to the previous signs and symptoms, more than half of adults with celiac disease have the following symptoms which are unrelated to the digestive system:

  • headaches
  • joint pain
  • itchy, blistery skin rash
  • mouth ulcers
  • loss of bone density
  • softening of bone
  • nervous system injury
  • numbness and tingling in the feet and hands
  • possible problems with balance
  • cognitive impairment
  • reduced spleen function

Getting tested for celiac disease:

It is in your best interest to consult your doctor before changing to a gluten-free diet. If you slightly reduce the amount of gluten you eat before getting tested for celiac disease, you may change the test results. Celiac disease tends to run in families.

If someone in your family has celiac disease, it would be best to get tested as well. For those with type one diabetes, they are at risk for celiac disease and should be tested.

Be sure to contact our office with any inquiries. Our incredible gastroenterologists will help relieve as many gastro issues as they possible can. Call or reach out today to make an appointment!

Staff Writer