Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in 20716

Photo of Kathleen Tabb, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT
Kathleen Tabb
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Emma Sharp, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN
Emma Sharp
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Klara Knezevic, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CLT
Klara Knezevic
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CLT
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
My passion is to help you feel better and live your life to the fullest, without feeling restricted by food choices. Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, undergoing cancer treatment or attempting to manage a chronic illness, I am here to help! I will work with you to find a personalized nutrition approach that works for you based on your unique situation and including your favorite current foods and inspiration with new foods using our own quick, easy recipes.
My passion is to help you feel better and live your life to the fullest, without feeling restricted by food choices. Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, undergoing cancer treatment or attempting to manage a chronic illness, I am here to help! I will work with you to find a personalized nutrition approach that works for you based on your unique situation and including your favorite current foods and inspiration with new foods using our own quick, easy recipes.
(301) 804-2249 View (301) 804-2249

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Kate Brock, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, MS, CNS, LDN
Kate Brock
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, MS, CNS, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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. Physically, you might be dealing with bloating, fatigue, or hormone concerns, and wondering if it’s possible to care for your health without being on the constant merry go round of trying things and then giving up. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Healing is possible, and it doesn’t have to be exhausting.
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. Physically, you might be dealing with bloating, fatigue, or hormone concerns, and wondering if it’s possible to care for your health without being on the constant merry go round of trying things and then giving up. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Healing is possible, and it doesn’t have to be exhausting.
(202) 318-3069 View (202) 318-3069
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 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 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 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 Dana Monsees, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Dana Monsees
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
Dana Monsees is a board-certified, Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (MS, CNS, LDN). Dana offers a non-restrictive approach to nutrition and wellbeing that empowers individuals with chronic health conditions and complex symptoms. She utilizes a root cause, functional medicine philosophy combined with a non-diet approach to support both symptom remission, an improved relationship with food and body image. Dana grew up as a multi-sport athlete, and has coached swimming for 15+ years. She loves working with student athletes to support their performance through nutrition.
Dana Monsees is a board-certified, Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (MS, CNS, LDN). Dana offers a non-restrictive approach to nutrition and wellbeing that empowers individuals with chronic health conditions and complex symptoms. She utilizes a root cause, functional medicine philosophy combined with a non-diet approach to support both symptom remission, an improved relationship with food and body image. Dana grew up as a multi-sport athlete, and has coached swimming for 15+ years. She loves working with student athletes to support their performance through nutrition.
(301) 691-4577 View (301) 691-4577
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 Rebecca Bitzer - Rebecca Bitzer Dietitians for Every Condition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CEDRD
Rebecca Bitzer Dietitians for Every Condition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CEDRD
Greenbelt, MD 20770
Concerned about inflammation, diabetes, digestive issues or eating disorders? Our group practice includes seven Registered Dietitians with extensive nutrition counseling experience. Each dietitian specializes in personalized nutrition within their specialty. This allows you to see the "best of the best" based on your unique situation. Our highly-qualified dietitians specialize in eating disorders, food sensitivities, digestive troubles, diabetes, heart disease, PCOS, and more. Our non-dieting "REBEL" approach to weight loss provides greater satisfaction, improved health, mindful eating, intuitive eating and personalized care.
Concerned about inflammation, diabetes, digestive issues or eating disorders? Our group practice includes seven Registered Dietitians with extensive nutrition counseling experience. Each dietitian specializes in personalized nutrition within their specialty. This allows you to see the "best of the best" based on your unique situation. Our highly-qualified dietitians specialize in eating disorders, food sensitivities, digestive troubles, diabetes, heart disease, PCOS, and more. Our non-dieting "REBEL" approach to weight loss provides greater satisfaction, improved health, mindful eating, intuitive eating and personalized care.
(301) 485-6811 View (301) 485-6811
Photo of Amanda M Policare, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD , LDN
Amanda M Policare
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD , LDN
Baltimore, MD 21224
Welcome to a journey of wellness and joy. As your dedicated Registered Dietitian, I am here to guide you towards a happier, healthier version of yourself by unlocking the incredible power of nutrition. Together, we will embark on a personalized path that transcends fad diets and restrictive routines. Instead, we'll focus on nourishing your body with wholesome, delicious foods that fuel your body from the inside out. Whether your goal is weight management, increased energy, or improved overall health, nutrition plays a pivotal role. I will equip you with the knowledge and tools to unleash your full potential.
Welcome to a journey of wellness and joy. As your dedicated Registered Dietitian, I am here to guide you towards a happier, healthier version of yourself by unlocking the incredible power of nutrition. Together, we will embark on a personalized path that transcends fad diets and restrictive routines. Instead, we'll focus on nourishing your body with wholesome, delicious foods that fuel your body from the inside out. Whether your goal is weight management, increased energy, or improved overall health, nutrition plays a pivotal role. I will equip you with the knowledge and tools to unleash your full potential.
(410) 883-9287 View (410) 883-9287
Photo of Kristen Nyampong, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Kristen Nyampong
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Serves Area
My name is Kristen Nyampong, and I’m a Registered Dietitian based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. I take a person-centered, trauma-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. I’m especially passionate about working with individuals in the BIPOC community and those who are vegan, vegetarian, or plant-forward.
My name is Kristen Nyampong, and I’m a Registered Dietitian based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. I take a person-centered, trauma-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. I’m especially passionate about working with individuals in the BIPOC community and those who are vegan, vegetarian, or plant-forward.
(331) 259-8859 View (331) 259-8859
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 Emily Fultz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Emily Fultz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Ellicott City, MD 21043
My passion is to help you get nutritionally fit. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance or simply an individual looking for the motivation to get your health back – I am here to help you achieve your goals. Nutrition is ever-changing, which I know can become quite overwhelming and lead to a lot of questions. Together, we can quit the dieting and get you back to the life that you have been dreaming of. No goal is too hefty, so do not hesitate to reach out!
My passion is to help you get nutritionally fit. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance or simply an individual looking for the motivation to get your health back – I am here to help you achieve your goals. Nutrition is ever-changing, which I know can become quite overwhelming and lead to a lot of questions. Together, we can quit the dieting and get you back to the life that you have been dreaming of. No goal is too hefty, so do not hesitate to reach out!
(443) 355-7021 View (443) 355-7021
Photo of Lauren Ilene Mirkin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, CNS, LCPC
Lauren Ilene Mirkin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, CNS, LCPC
Columbia, MD 21044
I also have experience in many GI (gastrointestinal) conditions such as IBS ( Irritable bowel syndrome), IBD (Inflammatory bowel disorder), gastroparesis and functional GI disorders.
Are you ready to make a quantum leap in your health and well-being? Are you looking to lose weight and feel more fit and focused? Are you looking to develop a more mindful and self-compassionate approach to your nutritional needs? Are you looking for an experienced and patient nutritionist whose work is grounded in the principles of functional and integrative medicine? Are you ready to take a holistic whole-person approach to your health challenges? Whether you are struggling with excess weight, disordered eating, an eating disorder, diabetes, chronic fatigue or a mood disorder, I am here to help you improve your health.
I also have experience in many GI (gastrointestinal) conditions such as IBS ( Irritable bowel syndrome), IBD (Inflammatory bowel disorder), gastroparesis and functional GI disorders.
Are you ready to make a quantum leap in your health and well-being? Are you looking to lose weight and feel more fit and focused? Are you looking to develop a more mindful and self-compassionate approach to your nutritional needs? Are you looking for an experienced and patient nutritionist whose work is grounded in the principles of functional and integrative medicine? Are you ready to take a holistic whole-person approach to your health challenges? Whether you are struggling with excess weight, disordered eating, an eating disorder, diabetes, chronic fatigue or a mood disorder, I am here to help you improve your health.
(443) 231-0112 View (443) 231-0112
Photo of Manal Qadeer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Manal Qadeer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Manal Qadeer, MS, RD, LDN is a trauma-informed registered dietitian who helps clients heal their relationship with food and their bodies through a compassionate, collaborative approach. With over six years of experience in both nutrition and mental health settings, she specializes in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and the emotional side of nourishment. Manal’s philosophy is grounded in Health at Every Size, All Foods Fit, and the belief that every body is a good body. She creates a safe, judgment-free space where you can feel truly heard, understood, and empowered to move at your own pace tow
Manal Qadeer, MS, RD, LDN is a trauma-informed registered dietitian who helps clients heal their relationship with food and their bodies through a compassionate, collaborative approach. With over six years of experience in both nutrition and mental health settings, she specializes in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and the emotional side of nourishment. Manal’s philosophy is grounded in Health at Every Size, All Foods Fit, and the belief that every body is a good body. She creates a safe, judgment-free space where you can feel truly heard, understood, and empowered to move at your own pace tow
(470) 450-6050 View (470) 450-6050
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 Gargi Parikh, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MPH , CDCES
Gargi Parikh
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MPH , CDCES
Silver Spring, MD 20902
We can help you tackle your health challenges and reach your goals with a sustainable plan that works for you. Our goal is to help you master your diabetes and/or digestive health using real food and a mind-body approach to healing. Our dietitians help individuals control and reverse diabetes, and heal gut issues so they can live a fulfilling life. We are committed to making the journey simple, sustainable and fun! We provide real-life tools, resources, and coaching support to help you thrive.
We can help you tackle your health challenges and reach your goals with a sustainable plan that works for you. Our goal is to help you master your diabetes and/or digestive health using real food and a mind-body approach to healing. Our dietitians help individuals control and reverse diabetes, and heal gut issues so they can live a fulfilling life. We are committed to making the journey simple, sustainable and fun! We provide real-life tools, resources, and coaching support to help you thrive.
(301) 381-5656 View (301) 381-5656
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.