Fiber and IBS

Fiber and IBS
by Elizabeth Radisson

whole-wheat products are high in fiber to help your digestive system. In addition,
most fruits and vegetables will help to increase the fiber in your diet. High fiber foods
are known have a direct impact on Irritable Bowel Syndrome and the digestive tract.
Sometimes, IBS is an indicator that your diet is not high enough in fiber.

One type of fiber is soluble fiber. Soluble fiber soothes the digestive tract, and helps
to prevent both diarrhea and constipation--the two faces of IBS. Soluble fiber is
typically found in starchy foods such as:

* rice
* pasta
* oatmeal
* potatoes
* sweet potatoes
* mushrooms
* bananas
* applesauce

Soluble fiber is able to dissolve in liquid, including the water you drink with your meal.
This water absorption allows the fiber to move easily and quickly through the
digestive tract. Drinking plenty of water with your meals will help soluble fiber to be
most effective.

The other type of fiber is insoluble fibers. Insoluble fiber is typically found in the
cellulose of certain foods. Seeds, root vegetables, cabbage, wheat bran and corn
bran also contain high amounts of insoluble fibers. While insoluble fiber is a key part
of a healthy diet, those with IBS should be careful to avoid insoluble fiber on an
empty stomach as this can exacerbate your symptoms.

During an IBS attack, you may find that consuming additional fiber will help to relax
your digestive system, and return you to normal. You may want to consider a fiber
supplement, such as Metamucil or Fibercon, to relieve your symptoms.

As you begin to increase your fiber intake, be aware that your body has its
limitations. If you are not accustomed to a high-fiber diet, be sure to introduce fiber
slowly. This will give your body a chance to get used to processing the fiber. Over
time, your body will adjust, and you will be able to increase your daily fiber intake.

Fiber is part of a healthy, balanced diet, and it is even more important for those
suffering from IBS. It can help to reduce the symptoms, and even prevent them. The
recommended minimum fiber intake is 25-33 grams per day-more is certainly better.

About The Author

Elizabeth Radisson has been living with for twenty years.
She is a contributing author and editor of ,
where you can find information on IBS treatment, causes and symptoms.

If you suffer from IBS, you have
probably heard about fiber and its
effects on Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Eating a sufficient amount of fiber is
one of the major ways to help
prevent IBS. By being aware of both
the health benefits of fiber and how it
affects your symptoms, you can use
fiber effectively to ease the
discomforts of IBS. There are
different types of fiber, each with
their own characteristics to help with
your symptoms.

Fiber is primarily found in whole
grains. Bread, spaghetti and other

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on
this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural
remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.