Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in 20709

Photo of Ekere Ekandem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Ekere Ekandem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Serves Area
As a Master's degree level dietitian, I counsel on a wide range of topics during nutrition counseling that will be tailored to your needs and concerns. I have 16 combined years of experience in child and adult nutrition.
As a Master's degree level dietitian, I counsel on a wide range of topics during nutrition counseling that will be tailored to your needs and concerns. I have 16 combined years of experience in child and adult nutrition.
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More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Caroline Kern, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT
Caroline Kern
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21403
Due to personal struggles with migraines and IBS, I understand what it is like to not have answers.
Are you struggling with tummy troubles? Chronic constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain? You've seen a gastroenterologist and been told that everything is "normal." Have you been told you have fibromyalgia but not experienced any relief? Is your child an extreme picky eater, and you feel you may pull your hair out trying to get them to eat? Have you or a loved one been placed on a feeding tube with no direction on how to manage outside of the hospital? No help with optimizing nutrition status and getting the best nourishment?
Due to personal struggles with migraines and IBS, I understand what it is like to not have answers.
Are you struggling with tummy troubles? Chronic constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain? You've seen a gastroenterologist and been told that everything is "normal." Have you been told you have fibromyalgia but not experienced any relief? Is your child an extreme picky eater, and you feel you may pull your hair out trying to get them to eat? Have you or a loved one been placed on a feeding tube with no direction on how to manage outside of the hospital? No help with optimizing nutrition status and getting the best nourishment?
(903) 459-4545 View (903) 459-4545
Photo of Julie Newton, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Julie Newton
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
My areas of interest include but are not limited to IBS, Crohn’s disease, GERD, IBD, diverticulitis, SIBO, Celiac disease, pancreatitis, food sensitivities, and GI cancers.
My passion is to provide my clients with a better understanding of their GI diagnosis, why food choices play a role in symptoms, and to overall help you feel better. Long term changes, a positive outlook, and helping to reduce food and symptom related stress is also a primary focus.
My areas of interest include but are not limited to IBS, Crohn’s disease, GERD, IBD, diverticulitis, SIBO, Celiac disease, pancreatitis, food sensitivities, and GI cancers.
My passion is to provide my clients with a better understanding of their GI diagnosis, why food choices play a role in symptoms, and to overall help you feel better. Long term changes, a positive outlook, and helping to reduce food and symptom related stress is also a primary focus.
(678) 403-6964 View (678) 403-6964
Photo of Emma Sharp, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN
Emma Sharp
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN
1 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
Hi! My name is Emma Sharp. I am a Registered Dietitian in Maryland. I see patients in Greenbelt and Columbia, Maryland, as well as virtually across the US. Growing up loving science and animals, my passion for nutrition originated from researching plant-based nutrition to learn if I was able to achieve a healthy diet that aligned with my ethical beliefs and preferences. Upon learning how I could align my values with my health goals, I became passionate about studying nutrition in order to help others use the power of nutrition to their benefit!
Hi! My name is Emma Sharp. I am a Registered Dietitian in Maryland. I see patients in Greenbelt and Columbia, Maryland, as well as virtually across the US. Growing up loving science and animals, my passion for nutrition originated from researching plant-based nutrition to learn if I was able to achieve a healthy diet that aligned with my ethical beliefs and preferences. Upon learning how I could align my values with my health goals, I became passionate about studying nutrition in order to help others use the power of nutrition to their benefit!
(240) 255-7136 View (240) 255-7136
Photo of Eileen McMahon - Phoenix Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Phoenix Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Phoenix, MD 21131
In Greek mythology, the Phoenix is a long-lived bird that symbolizes renewal. It rises up from the ashes to be born again. At, Phoenix Nutrition, through assessment, education, and individualized planning within a trusting and supportive environment, you will experience your own renewal. You will be given all that you need to “rise up to health.”
In Greek mythology, the Phoenix is a long-lived bird that symbolizes renewal. It rises up from the ashes to be born again. At, Phoenix Nutrition, through assessment, education, and individualized planning within a trusting and supportive environment, you will experience your own renewal. You will be given all that you need to “rise up to health.”
(443) 262-0338 View (443) 262-0338
Photo of Allison Tepper, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, RYT
Allison Tepper
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, RYT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in intuitive eating, mindfulness, eating disorders, emotional eating, food allergies and sensitivities, vegan and vegetarian diets, diabetes, PCOS, heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, IBS and more.
I am a Registered Dietitian and Registered Yoga Teacher and am passionate about helping clients achieve their goals through an overall lifestyle approach that is unique to each person. My focus is on helping clients create change in a balanced way, with a focus on intuitive eating and Health At Every Size. I believe that nutrition isn't just about food, but your entire lifestyle as well. Taking care of yourself through movement, adequate sleep, stress management and intuitive eating are all components of living a healthy life and my goal is to help you find what will work best for your lifestyle and needs.
I specialize in intuitive eating, mindfulness, eating disorders, emotional eating, food allergies and sensitivities, vegan and vegetarian diets, diabetes, PCOS, heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, IBS and more.
I am a Registered Dietitian and Registered Yoga Teacher and am passionate about helping clients achieve their goals through an overall lifestyle approach that is unique to each person. My focus is on helping clients create change in a balanced way, with a focus on intuitive eating and Health At Every Size. I believe that nutrition isn't just about food, but your entire lifestyle as well. Taking care of yourself through movement, adequate sleep, stress management and intuitive eating are all components of living a healthy life and my goal is to help you find what will work best for your lifestyle and needs.
(631) 364-0149 View (631) 364-0149
Photo of Kathleen Tabb, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT
Kathleen Tabb
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT
6 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
Tired of living with the uncomfortable and unwanted symptoms associated with chronic illnesses like IBS and Crohn's?
As a LEAP therapist, I can help you solve your digestive difficulties & additional symptoms. Together we will investigate the root cause of symptoms vs only treating symptoms. I offer a functional approach to nutrition in order to achieve your ultimate goal, which may include specialized testing such as a stool test or micronutrient testing.
Tired of living with the uncomfortable and unwanted symptoms associated with chronic illnesses like IBS and Crohn's?
As a LEAP therapist, I can help you solve your digestive difficulties & additional symptoms. Together we will investigate the root cause of symptoms vs only treating symptoms. I offer a functional approach to nutrition in order to achieve your ultimate goal, which may include specialized testing such as a stool test or micronutrient testing.
(240) 787-7092 View (240) 787-7092
Photo of Lynise Perry - Lynise Perry Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Lynise Perry Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’ve been dealing with ongoing gut issues, hormone changes, or chronic symptoms and feel like you’re not getting real answers, you’re not alone—and you’re not imagining it. Clients often come to me feeling dismissed, overwhelmed, or stuck—and leave with clarity, direction, and a deeper understanding of their body. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start feeling better, I’d love to support you.
If you’ve been dealing with ongoing gut issues, hormone changes, or chronic symptoms and feel like you’re not getting real answers, you’re not alone—and you’re not imagining it. Clients often come to me feeling dismissed, overwhelmed, or stuck—and leave with clarity, direction, and a deeper understanding of their body. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start feeling better, I’d love to support you.
(757) 418-6052 View (757) 418-6052
Photo of Robin Gatter - Robin Gatter Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, NBC-HWC
Robin Gatter Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, NBC-HWC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help people with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ASD, TBIs, Anorexia, Atypical Anorexia, Binge Eating Disorder, ARFID, OSFED, Diabetes, Thyroid Disease, IBS/IBD, and other GI conditions so they can get back to living their lives, feel confident in their bodies and take the stress out of eating.
Do you have an unhealthy relationship with food? Do you get stressed thinking about what to eat? Have you tried different ways of eating to help you feel better and nothing seems to work? Like you, I struggled. I have ADHD, Thyroid Disease, and had disordered eating patterns for many years. I help people identify the root cause of their illness and incorporate nutritional changes. I know what it's like to have a negative body image and be exhausted from thinking about what I could and couldn't eat. Food should bring joy and satisfaction, not stress.
I help people with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ASD, TBIs, Anorexia, Atypical Anorexia, Binge Eating Disorder, ARFID, OSFED, Diabetes, Thyroid Disease, IBS/IBD, and other GI conditions so they can get back to living their lives, feel confident in their bodies and take the stress out of eating.
Do you have an unhealthy relationship with food? Do you get stressed thinking about what to eat? Have you tried different ways of eating to help you feel better and nothing seems to work? Like you, I struggled. I have ADHD, Thyroid Disease, and had disordered eating patterns for many years. I help people identify the root cause of their illness and incorporate nutritional changes. I know what it's like to have a negative body image and be exhausted from thinking about what I could and couldn't eat. Food should bring joy and satisfaction, not stress.
(561) 944-7635 View (561) 944-7635
Photo of Dr. Kate Brock, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, LDN, CEDS
Dr. Kate Brock
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, LDN, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You might feel like you’ve tried every diet, every plan, every reset, but still feel stuck. Maybe you’re constantly thinking about food, swinging between feeling in control and overwhelmed. You’re tired of the guilt, the spirals, and the all-or-nothing mindset. My ideal clients are often high-achieving women struggling with restrictive eating, emotional eating, binge eating and/or body image concerns. Many come to my practice feeling exhausted by food rules and frustrated that nothing seems to “work” long term. Others feel disconnected from their hunger, fullness, and ability to trust themselves around food.
You might feel like you’ve tried every diet, every plan, every reset, but still feel stuck. Maybe you’re constantly thinking about food, swinging between feeling in control and overwhelmed. You’re tired of the guilt, the spirals, and the all-or-nothing mindset. My ideal clients are often high-achieving women struggling with restrictive eating, emotional eating, binge eating and/or body image concerns. Many come to my practice feeling exhausted by food rules and frustrated that nothing seems to “work” long term. Others feel disconnected from their hunger, fullness, and ability to trust themselves around food.
(202) 318-3069 View (202) 318-3069
Photo of Molly Ostrander, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFNCP
Molly Ostrander
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFNCP
Online Only
I am passionate about helping clients with improving overall diet and nutrition, gastrointestinal concerns such as IBS, colitis and the gut-brain interaction; women's health including perimenopause and menopause; and weight concerns.
Driven by her personal experience with Crohn’s disease, Molly is committed to helping women navigate their gut and hormonal health challenges. More specifically, she specializes in disorders of gut-brain interaction, celiac disease, autoimmune conditions, weight concerns, menopause, perimenopause, and GI disease and disorder. Her overall philosophy for all conditions includes intuitive eating in all sized bodies.
I am passionate about helping clients with improving overall diet and nutrition, gastrointestinal concerns such as IBS, colitis and the gut-brain interaction; women's health including perimenopause and menopause; and weight concerns.
Driven by her personal experience with Crohn’s disease, Molly is committed to helping women navigate their gut and hormonal health challenges. More specifically, she specializes in disorders of gut-brain interaction, celiac disease, autoimmune conditions, weight concerns, menopause, perimenopause, and GI disease and disorder. Her overall philosophy for all conditions includes intuitive eating in all sized bodies.
(301) 900-3497 View (301) 900-3497
Photo of Stacy O'Brien, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT
Stacy O'Brien
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT
Online Only
SIBO, IBS, Celiac Disease, food sensitivities, pre-diabetes, weight loss, high cholesterol, and lowering inflammation are all nutrition related!
GI is my specialty! Bloating, reflux, gas, constipation, diarrhea, stomach aches, food choices are things we can work on. With or without a formal diagnosis I can help you to feel better. We will focus on symptom relief AND finding the root cause of your GI discomfort. Gut health testing available as needed for SIBO, food sensitivities, gut microbiome, etc.
SIBO, IBS, Celiac Disease, food sensitivities, pre-diabetes, weight loss, high cholesterol, and lowering inflammation are all nutrition related!
GI is my specialty! Bloating, reflux, gas, constipation, diarrhea, stomach aches, food choices are things we can work on. With or without a formal diagnosis I can help you to feel better. We will focus on symptom relief AND finding the root cause of your GI discomfort. Gut health testing available as needed for SIBO, food sensitivities, gut microbiome, etc.
(973) 840-8578 View (973) 840-8578
Photo of Constance A Chukwuka, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
Constance A Chukwuka
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20715
My goal is to make it 100% easy for you to follow your specified dietary plan and lifestyle changes to meet your goal. I always review your food likes/dislikes, make necessary changes paying attention to your food likes. I believe that good nutrition is the one that is eaten, good diet plan/lifestyle change is the one that is simple and easy to follow for a long time. I use visuals and measures to bring points home and clear, you don't have to take notes, I do give handouts which you might never have to read because my points are always clear.
My goal is to make it 100% easy for you to follow your specified dietary plan and lifestyle changes to meet your goal. I always review your food likes/dislikes, make necessary changes paying attention to your food likes. I believe that good nutrition is the one that is eaten, good diet plan/lifestyle change is the one that is simple and easy to follow for a long time. I use visuals and measures to bring points home and clear, you don't have to take notes, I do give handouts which you might never have to read because my points are always clear.
(240) 534-1980 View (240) 534-1980
Photo of Brooke Mader Ganev - South Bay Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
South Bay Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Clinical & Integrative Nutritionist specializing in the functional medicine approach to nutrition. I help individuals find and address the root cause of imbalances rather than simply treating symptoms. In my practice, I provide individuals with personalized, whole-person care. I meet my clients where they are on their health journey. I believe every single person deserves to have the education and support they need in order to heal themselves and live a healthy life. I'd love to help you get started.
I am a board-certified Clinical & Integrative Nutritionist specializing in the functional medicine approach to nutrition. I help individuals find and address the root cause of imbalances rather than simply treating symptoms. In my practice, I provide individuals with personalized, whole-person care. I meet my clients where they are on their health journey. I believe every single person deserves to have the education and support they need in order to heal themselves and live a healthy life. I'd love to help you get started.
(424) 361-7755 View (424) 361-7755
Photo of Rebecca H Thomas - Food Freedom Nutrition Group, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Food Freedom Nutrition Group
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Are you struggle with yo-yo dieting and do not know how to eat for your health and pleasure? Does dieting and nutritional beliefs consume most of your thoughts and have become your identity? Let’s take back control! If you are ready to break up with destructive eating behaviors and find freedom from disordered eating, I am here to help. I specialize in Mindful eating, recovery from eating disorders( which include anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, ARFID and negative food associations).
Are you struggle with yo-yo dieting and do not know how to eat for your health and pleasure? Does dieting and nutritional beliefs consume most of your thoughts and have become your identity? Let’s take back control! If you are ready to break up with destructive eating behaviors and find freedom from disordered eating, I am here to help. I specialize in Mindful eating, recovery from eating disorders( which include anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, ARFID and negative food associations).
(443) 616-3329 View (443) 616-3329
Photo of Helena Ezzeldin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Helena Ezzeldin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Helena is a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist in the VA, DC, and MD area who is dedicated to helping her clients re-discover a healthy relationship with food and their body.Over the years she has found a deep connection working with co-morbid health challenges that many times accompany disordered eating such as gastrointestinal conditions, Crohn’s Disease, and Hormonal Imbalances. She has strong experience working with the Binge Eating Population, along with other disorder. In all her practices she leads with the Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size(HAES) principles as she guides her clients towards food freedom
Helena is a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist in the VA, DC, and MD area who is dedicated to helping her clients re-discover a healthy relationship with food and their body.Over the years she has found a deep connection working with co-morbid health challenges that many times accompany disordered eating such as gastrointestinal conditions, Crohn’s Disease, and Hormonal Imbalances. She has strong experience working with the Binge Eating Population, along with other disorder. In all her practices she leads with the Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size(HAES) principles as she guides her clients towards food freedom
(571) 771-1313 View (571) 771-1313
Photo of Haleigh Augspols, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Haleigh Augspols
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of The Health And Healing Collective - The Health and Healing Collective, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
The Health and Healing Collective
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Serves Area
Welcome to The Health and Healing Collective, a virtual private practice dedicated to making nutrition counseling stress-free and accessible. We understand that every body is unique, crafting personalized plans based on your health history, goals, and daily routine. Our commitment to affordability means we're in-network with major health insurance companies, often covering 100% with unlimited visits. We believe nutritional counseling should be accessible to all, which is why we accept insurance. With flexible meeting times, including weekends, and a user-friendly telehealth platform, our service is convenient wherever you are.
Welcome to The Health and Healing Collective, a virtual private practice dedicated to making nutrition counseling stress-free and accessible. We understand that every body is unique, crafting personalized plans based on your health history, goals, and daily routine. Our commitment to affordability means we're in-network with major health insurance companies, often covering 100% with unlimited visits. We believe nutritional counseling should be accessible to all, which is why we accept insurance. With flexible meeting times, including weekends, and a user-friendly telehealth platform, our service is convenient wherever you are.
(848) 220-1786 View (848) 220-1786
Photo of Anne Suelzer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Anne Suelzer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Vegan/Vegetarian, Anti-inflammatory Nutrition, Heart Health, Hormonal Imbalances, GI Conditions ( IBS and IBD), GERD (Acid Reflux), Diabetes, Crohn’s, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, High Cholesterol, Ulcerative Colitis, Psychiatric Diagnosis, Hyper/Hypo-Thyroidism, Candida Overgrowth.
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
Specialties include Vegan/Vegetarian, Anti-inflammatory Nutrition, Heart Health, Hormonal Imbalances, GI Conditions ( IBS and IBD), GERD (Acid Reflux), Diabetes, Crohn’s, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, High Cholesterol, Ulcerative Colitis, Psychiatric Diagnosis, Hyper/Hypo-Thyroidism, Candida Overgrowth.
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
(332) 244-2046 View (332) 244-2046
Photo of Morgan Schmitt, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Morgan Schmitt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21212
Morgan is a registered dietitian committed to improving overall health and well-being. She specializes in supporting individuals with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, and thyroid management. With a holistic approach, Morgan goes beyond assessing dietary habits to consider various lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, stress levels, and one's relationship with food. Morgan combines her expertise in nutrition with a compassionate approach to guide individuals on their journey towards improved health and wellness. Morgan recognizes that everyone's health and wellness journey is unique.
Morgan is a registered dietitian committed to improving overall health and well-being. She specializes in supporting individuals with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, and thyroid management. With a holistic approach, Morgan goes beyond assessing dietary habits to consider various lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, stress levels, and one's relationship with food. Morgan combines her expertise in nutrition with a compassionate approach to guide individuals on their journey towards improved health and wellness. Morgan recognizes that everyone's health and wellness journey is unique.
(240) 237-9607 View (240) 237-9607
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a general term that refers to a collection of symptoms associated with poor gut mobility and function, including abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. IBS is very common, with some estimates suggesting that as many as 10-15% of adults within the United States have IBS. Although the two conditions sound similar and share many symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, IBS differs from irritable bowel diseases (IBDs), such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. In contrast to IBS which is caused by issues in the functioning of the colon, IBDs are inflammatory conditions caused by overactive immune cells within the intestine. IBDs are much less common than IBS and typically more medically severe, occasionally requiring intensive medical treatment and/or surgery. IBS, in contrast, can usually be managed effectively with lifestyle changes and less intense medical intervention.

What are the subcategories of IBS?
Medical professionals generally identify four main types of IBS: IBS-C (constipation-predominant subtype), IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant subtype), IBS-M (mixed bowel subtype), and IBS-U (undefined subtype). Identifying the predominant type of IBS an individual has can be important for determining the type of treatment that is best for them, such as the lifestyle and dietary changes that may be most appropriate, as well as any medications that may be necessary. However, individuals may also experience multiple subtypes over time, as well as experience cycles of flare-ups and symptom relief.

What causes IBS?
The causes of IBS are not well understood, but symptoms are generally attributed to issues with gut muscle contraction and changes in the gut microbiome, both of which can lead to the characteristic symptoms of IBS. These issues can be caused by a variety of lifestyle factors, such as diet and stress. While lifestyle modifications may not completely cure IBS symptoms, identifying symptom-triggering foods, consuming a balanced diet, and reducing stress have all been shown to greatly reduce symptoms. IBS can also be caused by bacterial or parasitic infections within the intestine, in which case the syndrome is referred to as "post-infectious IBS." In contrast to non-infectious IBS, post-infectious IBS is less chronic in nature and symptoms will often resolve once the infection has subsided.

What foods should I avoid if I have IBS?
Specific foods that may trigger symptoms of IBS can vary person-to-person. However, common foods that may exacerbate symptoms include high-fat foods (such as fatty meats), wheat, dairy products, highly acidic foods (such as citrus), beans, cabbage, milk, and carbonated drinks. Over time, individuals with IBS are often able to identify which foods cause their symptoms to worsen and learn to avoid such foods to manage their symptoms.