Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.

Criteria TEU

Abdominal pain or discomfort at least 3 days/monthin the last 3 months, associated with at least 2 of the following:

1. Retreat discomfort with bowel movement
2. Change in frequency of bowel movements
3. Change in the composition of stools

The criteria must be fulfilled for at least 3 months with the beginning of symptoms to be placed at least 6 months before the diagnosis.

While the TEU is not treatment, management of symptoms, especially through diet, can significantly alleviate the discomfort and to improve the overall well-being.

Other symptoms : Flatulence, gases, an urgent need for defecation, feeling of incomplete emptying, mucus. In addition, Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a group of functional disorders of the colon is strongly associated with stress.

The management of IBS through diet includes identify foods that cause activation and the adoption of a diet that minimizes the exacerbations of symptoms. If and there is no one approach that fits all ofseveral nutritional strategies have shown promising results for the management of symptoms of IBS:

• A diet low in FODMAP: A diet low in FODMAP includes the restriction of food with a high content of fermentable carbohydrates. In the phase of exacerbation, avoid foods high in FODMAP, followed by a gradual phase of re-importation to identify specific food.

What is the FODMAP carbs?

• Those containing fructose: fruits, honey etc.
• Those containing galactose: dairy products.
• Those containing φρουκτάνες: wheat, garlic, onion, inulin.
• Those containing γαλακτάνες: legumes such as beans, lentils, the soy.
• Those containing polyols: sweeteners such as sorbitol and xylitol, stone fruits such as apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches, plums.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of microflora in the intestine and relieve the symptoms of IBS.
• Conscious diet: The practice of careful diet includes attention to the signs of hunger, to eat slowly and thoroughly chew the food. This approach can help to reduce swallowing air, which can contribute to gas and bloating and promotes better digestion.
• Hydration: Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining a healthy digestion. Drinking plenty of water during the day can help to prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
• Fiber: Reduction of fiber (vegetables, wholegrain cereals, peel from fruit) in the phase of exacerbation and gradual reintegration into them.
• Reduce coffee and alcohol.
• Reduce fat and spices.
• Personalized approach: Given that the stimuli can vary between individuals, it is necessary to adopt a personalized approach to managing IBS through diet. Compliance with food diary for the monitoring of symptoms can help to identify specific factors and to guide the dietary modifications.

In conclusion, it is important not to infer that a food is causing symptoms if the symptoms do not occur within 3 days from its consumption, and if you do not recur regularly at least 3 times after the consumption of the food. If detected some food or some change that's beneficial, the individual must understand that you may not have to lifelong abstinence/change. The changes observed for 3-6 months, and then the person must try to have a normal / complete diet and see if symptoms return. While the dietary modifications can play an important role in the management of IBS, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have pre-existing conditions health or dietary concerns.