Irritable Bowel Syndrome & High Fiber Diet

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By Kevin Rail
eHow Contributing Writer

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a debilitating disorder that causes uncomfortable distress in the stomach. It comes accompanied with cramps, constipation, bloating, diarrhea and mild to severe abdominal pain. Some of the remedies for IBS include medications, stress relief and dietary changes. One of the main dietary changes is adding more fiber to the diet.

Significance

According to National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders. Perhaps one in five Americas have symptoms.

Function

Two common effects of IBS are diarrhea and constipation. Dietary fiber actually helps both of these cases by producing a more solid stool and helping with elimination.

Types

Whole grains such as breads and cereals, fruits, vegetables and legumes are good sources of soluble and insoluble fiber. There are also a lot of good fiber supplements that are in the form of powders, chewables and bars.

Identification

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is triggered by muscle spasms of the colon. Eating a high fiber diet helps to keep the colon slightly distended which helps prevent this from happening.

Size

The Institute of Medicine recommends that you eat 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories you consume daily. There is also a fiber calculator that gives you more specific guidelines based on your height, age and activity level (see Resources).

Considerations

Consider adding fiber into the diet gradually. Eating too much too fast can cause gas and bloating. Aim to increase your daily amount by 2 to 3 grams. Also try to drink a lot of water to aid in digestion.