Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Dietitians Brisbane
- Have you experienced frequent bloating, gas or stomach ache?
- What about episodes of constipation or diarrhoea?
- Have you been diagnosed with Gastroesophageal reflux disease?
- Do you feel a pressing need to go to the toilet?
- Did all your attempts to lose weight fail?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a far more common disorder than you might think. Many people experience the symptoms of IBS without even knowing they have it. IBS can negatively affect your quality of life to the extent that other, seemingly unrelated disorders are quite common in sufferers of IBS.
Symptoms include:
- Bloating
- Excess Wind
- Abdominal Discomfort
- Constipation and/or Diarrhoea
These common food intolerances can be linked with IBS:
- Lactose Intolerance
- Fructose Malabsorption
- Gluten Intolerance
- Coeliac Disease
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
IBS is a prevailing health condition that an estimated 10-20% of our population suffer from, with women facing a higher risk of having it than men. The most common signs that you have IBS include abdominal pain, acid reflux, a bloated stomach, recurring episodes of diarrhoea or constipation and fatigue.
These symptoms of IBS present themselves differently to different people. Some IBS sufferers only experience abdominal discomfort and bloatedness. Some may have to deal with episodes of diarrhoea, constipation or even both. But most IBS sufferers will need to find ways of managing this lifelong condition.
If you are suffering from milder IBS symptoms, you can manage it by switching to a proper diet and making necessary lifestyle adjustments. A higher level of support and intervention may be needed by those experiencing more serious IBS symptoms.
Will a change in my diet improve my IBS symptoms?
Not all IBS sufferers will find dietary changes effective in relieving their IBS symptoms.
However, you may observe that consuming particular types of food increases the frequency or severity of your IBS symptoms. Keeping a food journal may help you in discovering what these foods are.
It will be beneficial for you to remember that:
- Regardless of any dietary changes you make, it is critical that you still end up with a balanced diet for your proper nutrition.
- Identifying which foods trigger your IBS symptoms may be difficult, even with a food journal. Consulting with a certified dietitian specialising in IBS at New Life Nutrition will give you the professional support you need to correctly identify these foods, and the role they play in your condition. A consultation with an expert can also prevent you from making the mistake of avoiding foods that may actually be good for you.
Why do FODMAPS trigger my IBS symptoms?
Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides And Polyols (FODMAPs) are a collection of molecules found in food. Studies have shown that some people find FODMAP-rich foods difficult to absorb, therefore triggering symptoms of IBS. Reducing your FODMAPs consumption is often the first step you need to take when determining which food is causing your IBS symptoms.
A low-FODMAP diet contains only a very small amount of fermentable carbohydrates like fructose, fructans (including wheat), raffinose, lactose and sorbitol. Taking these food groups out of your diet, and then systematically reintroducing them, allows us to make connections between IBS symptoms and particular food groups. This method allows your dietitian to accurately assess whether you have any food intolerances.
FODMAPs are not the only dietary triggers for your IBS symptoms – there can be many more. This is why a consultation with a dietitian experienced in gastrointestinal nutrition is highly recommended. Our team of Accredited Practising Dietitians at New Life Nutrition can assess your diet and your IBS symptoms, then advise you about the best dietary plan that may alleviate your symptoms of IBS.
How can we help you manage your IBS?
Our team are experts in helping our clients deal with their symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). We can assist you in finding out the foods that trigger your IBS symptoms and developing a personalised diet plan to ensure your complete nutrition without the discomfort. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety and depression can also trigger IBS symptoms and should be considered.
Our dietitians at New Life Nutrition can guide you as you take the steps towards a healthier you. Book your appointment now.
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