[Jaharow]

I have been diagnosed with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) because of this I am in a lot of pain most times and medications prescribed by the doctors are ineffective. It doesn’t seem to have a pattern on what effect me. I mean are there certain food groups I should stay away from or embrace? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[Kip]

Yes you need to find out what foods you shouldn't eat that starts it up. My sister has it her foods are corn and tomates .You would know which foods those would be as soon as you eat them, its just like having an allergic reaction.

[robotsandmusic]

Food intolerance tests have been useful to quite a few of my friends who experience IBS. However, some can be very expensive and are not always accurate so you might want to keep a food diary and record what triggers it instead.For me personally, I found that it was mostly stressed that triggered mine, so moderate exercise and relaxation techniques (such as breathing exercises) helped. I also tried acupuncture which for me, had no effect but everyone reacts to treatments differently so it may be worth a try.Good luck with sorting this out!

[heartspeakstruth]

There are some really great books on the subject. You can control IBS very well with a little discipline, and taking care with your eating habits.Here's a top 5 list from about.com1. Eating for IBS"Eating for IBS"is a comprehensive guide to help people with IBS change the way they think about the food they eat. This book will be a welcome addition to the library of many IBS sufferers who are committed to eliminating their symptoms from trigger foods.2. Freedom from Digestive DistressIn this book, author Gary Gitnick, M.D advocates using lifestyle changes to combat digestive disorders such as heartburn, gas, bloating and IBS. By taking the reader through several case studies, Dr. Gitnick illustrates important lifestyle changes that can alleviate symptoms.3. The First Year - IBSThe strategy of"The First Year: IBS"is true to its title - to take the newly diagnosed patient through the first year after diagnosis of IBS. This is no small task as there is a significant amount to learn about IBS, and each person responds differently. Focusing on only one topic each day week, or month also gives time for new information to register before moving on to the next idea.4. Breaking the Bonds of IBSIn her book, Dr. Bolen presents several tools that people with IBS can utilize to gain control over their symptoms. She touches on often overlooked topics such as incontinence, emotional illness, and developing a working relationship with physicians. Using examples from her practice, she explains how to use positive thinking and self-talk to manage IBS flare-ups.5. Mayo Clinic on Digestive HealthThe book touches on concepts not normally covered such as meal portions, body mass index (BMI), and how much fiber to eat. A section on common tests includes even those less well known such as transit studies. This book is a good choice as a general'how to'manual and troubleshooting guide for the digestive tract.