Supporting Digestive Health

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the digestive system. Symptoms can vary from person to person and may include abdominal pain, bloating, wind, constipation, diarrhoea, or changes in bowel habits. Dietary and lifestyle changes can often help improve symptoms and support digestive health.

---

Common Symptoms of IBS

Symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Bloating and wind
• Constipation
• Diarrhoea
• Changes in bowel habits
• Urgency when using the toilet
• Feeling that the bowel has not emptied fully

If symptoms persist or worsen, speak to your GP or healthcare professional.

---

Simple Dietary Changes

Many people find that simple dietary changes help improve IBS symptoms.

Try To:

• Eat three regular meals each day
• Avoid skipping meals
• Avoid eating late at night
• Consider smaller meal portions
• Limit alcohol intake
• Reduce caffeine intake
• Reduce fizzy drinks
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water
• Cut down on rich, fatty or fried foods

These changes may help reduce digestive symptoms and improve comfort.

---

Lifestyle Advice

Healthy lifestyle habits can play an important role in managing IBS.

Helpful Tips

• Eat meals in a relaxed environment
• Chew food thoroughly
• Take regular exercise
• Practice relaxation techniques
• Keep a food and symptom diary
• Introduce changes gradually

Tracking symptoms can help identify foods or habits that may affect your IBS.

---

Managing Bloating and Wind

If bloating and wind are a problem, you may benefit from:

• Reducing beans and pulses
• Limiting Brussels sprouts and cauliflower
• Avoiding excessive sugar-free gum and mints
• Including oats in your diet
• Trying linseeds if appropriate

Everyone responds differently, so keeping a symptom diary can be helpful.

---

Managing Constipation

If constipation is a symptom:

• Aim for 6–8 glasses of fluid daily
• Increase fibre gradually
• Include fruit and vegetables regularly
• Choose wholegrain foods where tolerated
• Consider oats and linseeds

Gradual changes are usually easier for the digestive system to tolerate.

---

Managing Diarrhoea

If diarrhoea is a symptom:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Reduce caffeine intake
• Consider reducing very high-fibre foods
• Avoid sugar-free products containing artificial sweeteners where possible

Replacing lost fluids is important to prevent dehydration.

---

Probiotics

Some people find probiotics helpful for managing IBS symptoms.

Examples include:

• Live yoghurt
• Kefir
• Probiotic supplements

If trying a probiotic, use one product consistently for at least four weeks before deciding whether it is helping.

---

When To Seek Further Support

If symptoms continue despite making dietary and lifestyle changes, speak to your GP or healthcare professional.

A dietitian may be able to provide additional support and discuss specialist dietary approaches if appropriate.

---

Further Information Available

This page provides a summary of dietary and lifestyle advice for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

The full PDF resource includes:

• IBS symptoms and diagnosis information
• Dietary advice based on symptoms
• Constipation guidance
• Diarrhoea guidance
• Bloating and wind management
• Probiotic advice
• Low FODMAP information
• Lifestyle recommendations

For complete information, please download the full PDF resource.