Hello everyone! Today, let’s talk about a common condition that many people deal with—Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Learning how to manage IBS with the right diet strategies can make a big difference in how you feel every day. In this episode, dietitian Matthew is joined by Kelsey, one of the Revive dietitians specializing in gut health.

Kelsey is a dietitian with a focus on helping people with gut health issues like IBS. She offers personalized advice on how to manage IBS symptoms through diet.

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Briefly, IBS is a disorder that affects the digestive system, causing symptoms like stomach pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It can be challenging to manage because different people react differently to various foods.

Easy Nutrition Tips from Kelsey

Kelsey shares some key tips for managing IBS through your diet:

• Track Your Food and Symptoms: Keeping a diary of what you eat and how you feel afterwards can help you identify which foods might trigger your symptoms.

• Gradually Increase Fibre: Foods rich in soluble fibre, such as oats, nuts, and seeds, are good for digestion. However, it’s important to introduce high-fibre foods slowly to avoid upsetting your stomach.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for digestion and can help prevent constipation, which is often a concern for those with IBS.

• Consider a Low FODMAP Diet: This diet limits foods that are high in certain types of carbohydrates that can aggravate symptoms. While it’s not suitable for everyone, many people find it helps a lot. Be sure to connect with Kelsey or other gut health dietitians on our team if you want to experiment with a low FODMAP diet!

• Adjust Portions and Frequency: Sometimes, it’s not just about which foods you eat but also how much and how often. A Revive dietitian can help you adjust the size of your meals and the timing to better suit your digestive system.

• Tailor Nutrition to Your Lifestyle: Your eating habits should also align with your lifestyle and daily routine. For instance, if you have a busy morning, a dietitian can help plan a breakfast that’s nutritious yet easy to digest, ensuring you start your day right without aggravating your IBS.

A Personalized Nutrition Plan

Every individual’s experience with IBS is unique, which is why Kelsey stresses the importance of a diet plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Seeing a dietitian like Kelsey, Laura, Heather, or Roshni can be a game-changer. They can help analyze your food diary and symptoms to pinpoint specific triggers. This might include discovering that certain grains, fruits, or dairy products worsen your symptoms while others are perfectly fine.

Conclusion

Dealing with IBS effectively involves understanding your own body and making dietary adjustments that fit your unique needs. Kelsey’s insights provide a great starting point for anyone looking to manage their IBS symptoms through diet. Remember, even small changes can have a big impact on your comfort and health!