Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the large intestine, causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Although the symptoms of IBS are uncomfortable and, quite frankly, annoying, this form of bowel disease does not cause changes to the bowel tissue or increase your risk of colon cancer. There are many causes, but IBS is most commonly triggered by foods, stress, hormones, and illnesses. There are several ways you can alleviate IBS:
- Eliminating high-gas foods, including carbonated beverages, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and raw fruits. This dietary change can reduce bloating and passing gas
- Eliminating or reducing gluten intake. According to Mayo Clinic, some people with IBS see improvement in diarrhea symptoms after cutting gluten out of their diets. Gluten can be found in wheat, barley, and rye
- Eating at regular times. Eat around the same time every day to regulate bowel function, and don’t skip meals. If diarrhea is your main symptom, eating small, frequent meals might make you feel better
- Avoiding caffeine. Try decaffeinated tea or coffee, and drink plenty of water to prevent cramping and diarrhea
- Taking fiber supplements with fluids. This may alleviate constipation. In addition, fiber supplements tend to cause less bloating than fiber-rich foods
As always, if you have tried these remedies or others to ease your IBS symptoms and nothing seems to work, talk to your doctor for other treatment options. There are medications made specifically for IBS that your doctor may prescribe. In addition, you could benefit from counseling if you have depression or if stress worsens your symptoms.

How can you alleviate IBS?