For those who have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), finding gluten and sugar-free products can be a difficult task. With so many processed and sugar-laden foods on the shelves, it’s hard to know which ones are safe and which ones are going to make your symptoms worse. Thankfully, there are some products that can help those with IBS manage their symptoms. However, there are also products that should be avoided as they may make your symptoms worse. Here are five of the worst food products for those with IBS.
Processed Meats: Processed meats are usually high in fat and sodium, which can be especially hard on the digestive system for those with IBS. Processed meats also contain additives, such as nitrates, which can be difficult for the body to digest and can lead to inflammation.
Refined Grains: Refined grains include white bread, white rice and pasta, and other processed grains. These types of grains have been stripped of their fibre content, which is important for maintaining regularity in those with IBS.
Artificial Sweeteners: While artificial sweeteners are often marketed as an alternative to sugar, they can actually be more irritating to the digestive system than sugar itself. While some artificial sweeteners may have fewer calories than sugar, they can still trigger reactions in people with IBS.
Caffeinated Drinks: Caffeinated drinks can be stimulating the digestive system, which can cause symptoms like bloating and abdominal pain in people with IBS.
Dairy Products: Dairy products can be difficult for the body to digest, especially for those with IBS. Dairy products also contain lactose, which can cause an increase in gas and bloating if it is not broken down properly by the body.
So, if you are looking to find foods that won’t aggravate your IBS symptoms, these five products should definitely be avoided - but don’t forget to read labels carefully and speak to a healthcare professional before making any changes in your diet.
