Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder that lasts for a long time and causes regular discomfort. However, severe complications are not very commonly observed. IBS is a chronic condition that is sometimes also referred to as spastic colitis, mucous colitis, and nervous colon.

Here are some important dietary tips for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) patients.

1. Relax more often
Relaxation techniques that are incorporated into the daily routine are very beneficial in the case of irritable bowel syndrome. Relaxation techniques have been known to reduce the symptoms of IBS. These include diaphragmatic/abdominal breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization/positive imagery.

2. Keep a diary
It is very important to journal the food items you are eating and symptoms seen after consuming particular food products. This way, you will be able to avoid foods that trigger IBS. To accurately understand and make sure that you are noting down everything, mention as many details as possible. What you are having is of paramount importance, but other things like portion size and the food source are also significant to understand the impact. You should document small things, like snacks, drinks, and gum, too. After having any food, if it feels like the gut is not comfortable, you should write down how you feel. If the symptoms of IBS are intermittent, the journal might help. Thus, keeping a diary is one of the most important dietary tips for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

3. Try probiotics
While it has not been seen to help everyone suffering from IBS, some people have been known to benefit from the intake of probiotics. Probiotics are bacteria that promote the health of the gut. The effects of having probiotics might not present themselves immediately. However, you must maintain consistency when it comes to trying probiotics, and the results will start showing over a few weeks.

4. Exercise
Exercise is essential, as it helps keep a check on depression, stress, and anxiety. Stress is directly related to Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and keeping stress under control will also lead to fewer symptoms of IBS. If you have not been exercising for a very long time, you can start small and then increase the intensity as with progress.

5. Cut down on the quantity of high-fiber foods
High-fiber foods, such as cereals, whole grains, beans, and vegetables, help avoid constipation. However, having these foods in excess can cause a problem as well. Gas and bloating can be caused if you add too many high-fiber foods in your diet very quickly. About 20 to 35 grams of fiber per day is considered healthy. However, instead of reaching there immediately, one must add 2-3 grams every day.