CARE ASSISTANT
HRIBS & Food Intolerance
The dietary triggers of irritable bowel syndrome.
IBS reacts strongly to certain fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs). Garlic, onion, wheat and certain fruits ferment quickly in the gut and produce a lot of gas.
This gas production distends a hypersensitive bowel, hence pain, bloating and, depending on the person, diarrhoea or reflex constipation.
More Informations
FODMAPs: fermentable sugars often involved in symptoms.
Definition
FODMAPs are short-chain carbohydrates poorly absorbed by the small intestine. In people with IBS, they ferment in the colon and cause gas, bloating and pain.
Causes
Wheat, garlic, onion, certain fruits and dairy products contain them; their fermentation distends an already sensitive bowel.
Diagnosis
- Six-week elimination diet, then gradual reintroduction to identify the foods involved.
Treatments
A low-FODMAP diet, supervised by a dietitian to avoid deficiencies, then a personalised diet. Certain digestive enzymes can help occasionally.
While you identify trigger foods, a few episodes can occur. Flexi absorbent underwear in the bag and a Mati underpad on the bed stop the elimination diet from becoming a source of anxiety.
Educational content written for families and caregivers. It does not replace a consultation: a doctor, a continence nurse or a physiotherapist makes the diagnosis and chooses the treatment.