Diet plays a crucial role in managing both irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and food allergies. However, figuring out which foods to eat and which to avoid can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with the symptoms of these conditions.
More importantly, the reason we are covering both in this article here is that there is a growing body of evidence suggesting a relationship between food allergies and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Studies have shown that individuals with IBS are more likely to have food allergies or intolerances than those without the condition. In fact, some researchers estimate that up to 70% of people with IBS may have food sensitivities.
- Furthermore, the symptoms of food allergies and IBS can overlap, making it difficult to distinguish between the two conditions.
For example, both food allergies and IBS can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. - As a result, it’s not uncommon for individuals with undiagnosed food allergies to be misdiagnosed with IBS.
Given these connections, it’s important for individuals with IBS to consider the possibility of food allergies or intolerances when planning their diets. By identifying and avoiding trigger foods, people with IBS may be able to reduce their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Food Allergies
Have you ever experienced vomiting after eating a particular dish or felt itchy around your eyes or lips? These symptoms may indicate a food allergy. When the immune system of the body reacts abnormally to a specific food, it leads to an allergic reaction.
While allergic responses can be moderate, they can also be severe and life-threatening, causing symptoms such as breathing difficulties, heart palpitations, and other symptoms. While food allergies are most common in children under three years old, adults can also experience them.
Know more about Food Allergies and if there is a difference between Food Intolerance and Food Allergies? Click to read more.
Causes of Food Allergies
The cause of food allergies is still unclear. Although food is essential for the body, some people may have an allergic response to certain proteins in food, which triggers the body’s immune system to attack it. This can cause the release of substances that lead to allergic reactions.
While any chemical or food can induce an allergic reaction, certain foods are responsible for the majority of food allergies.
Symptoms of Food Allergy
Allergic reactions to food can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms may include nasal congestion, coughing, cramps, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, diarrhea, watery eyes, itchy skin, and swelling of the face and body.
Severe reactions can result in anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that requires emergency medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include difficulty in breathing, dizziness, rapid drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.
Management of Food Allergy
Effective management of Food Allergy is important as they can cause uncomfortable side effects or even life-threatening reactions.
- The best way to prevent allergic reactions is by recognizing the food that causes the allergy and avoiding it in the future.
- To manage food allergies better, it is important to be aware of what you’re consuming and analyze ingredient labels to avoid any allergenic components.
- Before making any dietary adjustments, it is recommended to talk to a doctor and a coach. If a food category is removed due to nutritional inadequacies, ask for alternatives.
- Antihistamines can help with mild to moderate allergic response symptoms, and higher doses may be required for severe reactions. Adrenaline may be needed for severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, and it should be used under medical supervision.
- Food allergy sufferers should carry an auto-injector pen that stores doses of adrenaline and seek medical advice first before using it.
- Wearing a medical emergency wristband that lists the clinical condition, suggested therapies, and medicines to be avoided can help medical staff respond promptly, even if the patient is unconscious or unable to communicate.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. It is diagnosed clinically when no definitive investigation or biomarker has been found. Women have a 1.5 to 3 times higher incidence rate of IBS than men. Although there is no cure for IBS, dietary changes can often help manage symptoms.
Causes of IBS
The causes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are not completely understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development.
These factors include abnormal gastrointestinal motility, visceral hypersensitivity, intestinal inflammation, changes in gut bacteria, psychological factors, and food sensitivities. It’s important to note that the causes of IBS can vary between individuals, and some people may have more than one contributing factor.
Symptoms of IBS
Symptoms of IBS can include abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or both.
Diet Management of IBS
Here are some tips for managing IBS through diet:
- Identify trigger foods by keeping a food diary.
- Gradually increase fiber intake and choose low FODMAP fiber sources like psyllium, chia, flax, and hemp seeds, well-cooked or canned vegetables like carrots, green beans, eggplants and fruits like kiwi, oranges, papaya, and berries.
- Try a low FODMAP diet, with the help of a registered dietitian.
- Avoid trigger beverages like carbonated drinks, caffeine, alcohol, and high fructose drinks.
- Chew food thoroughly to help with digestion.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
It’s important to seek medical advice for the proper diagnosis and treatment of IBS. Consulting a registered dietitian/nutritionist can also help to identify personalized triggers and create a plan that works for you.
Authors:
Jyoti Dabas (Founder & CEO, Institute of Nutrition and Fitness Sciences (INFS)
Zainab Cutlerywala (INFS Faculty)
