Many people with IBS say they’re extremely gassy. It’s not clear why. They don’t seem to make more gas than anyone else, but it seems to bother them more. Studies have found that people with IBS have trouble getting rid of gas, possibly because of problems with how the nerves and muscles in their gut work. Their intestines may also be extra sensitive. Even a normal amount of gas may cause pain.
probiotics or yogurt
probiotics or yogurt
Dealing with IBS and gas is hard. Symptoms vary widely from one person to the next, and no single treatment works for everyone. What gives someone else gas may not bother you at all. What brings you relief may have no effect on someone else. There are many different strategies you can try. Most have to do with what you eat.
probiotics or yogurt
probiotics or yogurt
Gas-Producing Foods
Because IBS is different for everyone, it may help to keep a food diary to see what triggers your symptoms. Once you know the problem foods, you can avoid them.
“Get more fiber” is standard advice for people with IBS, especially if you have constipation. But sometimes it can make gas worse. The type and amount of fiber you add matters. So does how you add it to your diet.Increase your fiber gradually. It may give you more gas at first, but that should get better as your body gets used to it.
probiotics or yogurt
probiotics or yogurt
Carbohydrates
Certain carbs called FODMAPs are a problem for people with IBS. These carbs aren’t absorbed by the small intestine. When they hit the large intestine, they quickly break down and make gas. It happens to everyone, but it can be a problem for people with IBS.
These foods are high in FODMAPs. Scientists in Australia created a diet to avoid them. It’s shown good results, especially with reducing gas. But the foods you’re supposed to cut out are good for you in general. So you should try it for no more than 2 months, and only with your doctor’s approval.
probiotics or yogurtprobiotics or yogurt
Probiotics and Antibiotics
One theory about IBS is that the normal blend of helpful bacteria that live in the intestines has been disrupted. Some of them make more gas than others as they help break down your food. People with IBS may have too much of those types of bacteria.
Probiotics are supplements that add bacteria to the digestive system to bring back the right balance. Studies on taking probiotics for IBS show some promise.
Some people with IBS have reported less gassiness after taking antibiotics. That could be because the drug is killing gas-producing bacteria in your gut.
probiotics or yogurt
probiotics or yogurt