Various diets and dietary interventions have been proposed for people that suffer from IBS; we have found the following to be the most helpful. For more specific recommendations, more specific testing is required; we recommend a Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis 2.0 with Parasitology to help determine possible root causes of IBS and to tailor therapy.

Key Points

• Eliminate dairy and gluten-containing grains from the diet along with any other agents which you are known to be sensitive. Many people who have IBS-like symptoms may have a gluten and/or dairy intolerance. Gluten containing foods include anything containing wheat (i.e., flour, wheat, and whole wheat), rye, oats, kamut, spelt, and barley. Specially manufactured ‘gluten-free’ substitutes are available at most health food stores, co-ops and even in the ‘health food department’ at conventional grocery stores, including gluten-free bread, pasta, cereals and flour. See our Recipes section for ideas on gluten/dairy free cooking.
• If candida is found to be present (through testing like the CDSA 2.0) follow an anti-Candida diet.
• If you experience a lot of gas and bloating you should eliminate/reduce gas forming foods such as beans and other legumes, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, onions and garlic. You can try reintroducing them (steamed or cooked) in small quantities over time.
• Be sure and vary your foods; nutritional deficiency and/or imbalances often occur with IBS because of improper absorption and intake of nutrients.
• Avoid nightshade vegetables, including tomatoes, white potatoes (yams and sweet potatoes are okay), eggplant and bell peppers (and tobacco). These foods contain a chemical called solanine that can cause inflammation in the GI tract.
• Avoid citrus fruits, such as tomatoes, oranges and grapefruits, as they can incite inflammation.
• Get plenty of essential fatty acids in the diet; if tolerated, eat deep-sea fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, halibut and sardines several times weekly. Augment the diet with freshly ground flaxseeds (1-2 Tbsp daily) and flaxseed oil (1-2 Tbsp daily).
• Avoid corn and corn products; they can be very hard to digest and can cause allergic or sensitivity reactions.
• Follow the Vital Life Diet as much as possible.