Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Golden, CO

Photo of Rebecca Russell, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFNCP, ATC
Rebecca Russell
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFNCP, ATC
Golden, CO 80401
As a Functional Medicine Dietitian, I specialize in helping individuals find relief from gut-related issues like bloating, acid reflux, IBS, SIBO, and IBD.
I take a whole body, scientific approach to identifying the root cause of your symptoms. By evaluating labs, current nutrition habits, and lifestyle, I am able to create targeted nutrition and lifestyle recommendations with actionable plans that enable you to achieve your health goals.
As a Functional Medicine Dietitian, I specialize in helping individuals find relief from gut-related issues like bloating, acid reflux, IBS, SIBO, and IBD.
I take a whole body, scientific approach to identifying the root cause of your symptoms. By evaluating labs, current nutrition habits, and lifestyle, I am able to create targeted nutrition and lifestyle recommendations with actionable plans that enable you to achieve your health goals.
(720) 702-9809 View (720) 702-9809
Photo of Wellness Coaching And Nutrition Therapy - Wellness Coaching & Nutrition Therapy, PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CEDS-C
Wellness Coaching & Nutrition Therapy, PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CEDS-C
Online Only
In the throws of an eating disorder? Struggling with a poor relationship with food? Has every diet you have been on failed? We are here to stand along side you to help you make peace with food. Achieving a balance of nutrition, exercise, stress management & self-care can be a challenge. Our team of experienced dietitians have blended their skills in wellness coaching and nutrition therapy in order to help others find this balance and achieve wellness. We only use evidence based practices and standards or care with all clients. Please give us a call or visit our website to see which dietitian would be the best fit for you.
In the throws of an eating disorder? Struggling with a poor relationship with food? Has every diet you have been on failed? We are here to stand along side you to help you make peace with food. Achieving a balance of nutrition, exercise, stress management & self-care can be a challenge. Our team of experienced dietitians have blended their skills in wellness coaching and nutrition therapy in order to help others find this balance and achieve wellness. We only use evidence based practices and standards or care with all clients. Please give us a call or visit our website to see which dietitian would be the best fit for you.
(303) 963-9455 x1 View (303) 963-9455 x1
Photo of Alyssa Paglia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CLT
Alyssa Paglia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CLT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you’re dealing with gut issues, food sensitivities, or trying to build healthier habits, I apply a personalized approach to fill in the gaps where conventional nutrition advice falls short. My goal is to help you sort through the confusion and make simple, sustainable lifestyle changes that produce real, lasting results. With a deep understanding of both functional and conventional medicine, I’m committed to finding the most effective solutions to help you feel your best.
Whether you’re dealing with gut issues, food sensitivities, or trying to build healthier habits, I apply a personalized approach to fill in the gaps where conventional nutrition advice falls short. My goal is to help you sort through the confusion and make simple, sustainable lifestyle changes that produce real, lasting results. With a deep understanding of both functional and conventional medicine, I’m committed to finding the most effective solutions to help you feel your best.
(844) 440-6249 View (844) 440-6249
Photo of Jess Sorci-Galecki - Vital Source Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Vital Source Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Serves Area
Greetings! I am Jess Sorci is a nutritionist and functional medicine practitioner working with clients with complex health issues, including autoimmune disorders, digestive imbalances, hormone and thyroid dysregulation, and much more. Specifically, I specializes in autoimmune thyroid disorders, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, and Graves Disease. I take a different approach to care and profoundly understands that those struggling with chronic health issues often have emotional concerns or have experienced stressful life events.
Greetings! I am Jess Sorci is a nutritionist and functional medicine practitioner working with clients with complex health issues, including autoimmune disorders, digestive imbalances, hormone and thyroid dysregulation, and much more. Specifically, I specializes in autoimmune thyroid disorders, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, and Graves Disease. I take a different approach to care and profoundly understands that those struggling with chronic health issues often have emotional concerns or have experienced stressful life events.
(720) 707-2556 View (720) 707-2556
Photo of Megan R Tappan - New Life Dietitian- Megan Tappan, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
New Life Dietitian- Megan Tappan, RD, LDN
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Don’t know what or how to eat anymore? Overwhelming diagnosis? I'm here to help. Together we can set realistic goals that are sustainable in the long term. Quick fixes, one size fits all diets or restrictive eating won't work. Personalized nutrition and gradual lifestyle change is the way to better health. It doesn't have to be as complicated as it seems! Food IS meant to be enjoyable! If you agree, Contact me to schedule a free discovery call to start your journey!
Don’t know what or how to eat anymore? Overwhelming diagnosis? I'm here to help. Together we can set realistic goals that are sustainable in the long term. Quick fixes, one size fits all diets or restrictive eating won't work. Personalized nutrition and gradual lifestyle change is the way to better health. It doesn't have to be as complicated as it seems! Food IS meant to be enjoyable! If you agree, Contact me to schedule a free discovery call to start your journey!
(720) 513-4576 View (720) 513-4576

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Sofia Colantuono, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Sofia Colantuono
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sofia is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormonal Imbalances (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Sofia specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition. She also works with clients interested in Heart Health, Body Image concerns, vegan/vegetarian diets, and others areas.
Sofia is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormonal Imbalances (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Sofia specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition. She also works with clients interested in Heart Health, Body Image concerns, vegan/vegetarian diets, and others areas.
(206) 590-4794 View (206) 590-4794
Photo of Riley Maloney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Riley Maloney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Binge Eating Disorder, Sports Nutrition, Oncology and Hematology Nutrition, Pediatrics, GI Conditions/Digestive Problems (IBD, IBS), Acid Reflux (GERD), Crohn's,Diabetes, Food Intolerance, Exercise Addiction, Hormonal Imbalance, Thyroid Conditions.
Riley’s approach to care is rooted in developing a strong rapport with the client and making client’s feel safe and heard. Per her nutrition philosophy, Riley believes in nutrition care that is a mutual conversation where a client can have a say in their care, as this will lead to more sustainable, long-term progress; additionally, Riley practices from a non-diet and Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective for all clients, regardless of diagnosis. Riley prioritizes individualized treatment, tailoring interventions to meet clients developmental, financial, physical and emotional needs.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Binge Eating Disorder, Sports Nutrition, Oncology and Hematology Nutrition, Pediatrics, GI Conditions/Digestive Problems (IBD, IBS), Acid Reflux (GERD), Crohn's,Diabetes, Food Intolerance, Exercise Addiction, Hormonal Imbalance, Thyroid Conditions.
Riley’s approach to care is rooted in developing a strong rapport with the client and making client’s feel safe and heard. Per her nutrition philosophy, Riley believes in nutrition care that is a mutual conversation where a client can have a say in their care, as this will lead to more sustainable, long-term progress; additionally, Riley practices from a non-diet and Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective for all clients, regardless of diagnosis. Riley prioritizes individualized treatment, tailoring interventions to meet clients developmental, financial, physical and emotional needs.
(210) 791-9924 View (210) 791-9924
Photo of Donna Hugues - Brandywine Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Brandywine Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian
Serves Area
Conditions such as IBS, migraine, fibromyalgia, and many other lingering health problems are often directly related to immune reactions to the foods we eat.
Free Yourself! Do you suffer with health problems that just will not go away? Are you tired of paying for treatments and medications that do not work? Consider this... Your food could be making you sick! For the past nine years, I have used the patented blood test Mediator Release Test (MRT) along with the Lifestyle Eating And Performance (LEAP) dietary protocol to identify reactive foods and develop a meal plan that has helped many people heal and get well.
Conditions such as IBS, migraine, fibromyalgia, and many other lingering health problems are often directly related to immune reactions to the foods we eat.
Free Yourself! Do you suffer with health problems that just will not go away? Are you tired of paying for treatments and medications that do not work? Consider this... Your food could be making you sick! For the past nine years, I have used the patented blood test Mediator Release Test (MRT) along with the Lifestyle Eating And Performance (LEAP) dietary protocol to identify reactive foods and develop a meal plan that has helped many people heal and get well.
(302) 300-4807 View (302) 300-4807
Photo of Adrienne DePaul, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LDN
Adrienne DePaul
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include working with clients that currently have PCOS, Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, Hormonal Imbalances, Thyroid Issues, Low Fodmap, Disordered Eating, High Blood Pressure, IBD, IBS, GI Conditions, Infertility Nutrition.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft helping clients whom have PCOS, interests in Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, or Weight Management. I help clients to craft personalized, attainable, and sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes that support their health. By collaboratively designing small, impactful steps that preserve quality of life and promote personal choice, I help my clients achieve their goals from better blood sugar control to increased energy.
Specialities include working with clients that currently have PCOS, Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, Hormonal Imbalances, Thyroid Issues, Low Fodmap, Disordered Eating, High Blood Pressure, IBD, IBS, GI Conditions, Infertility Nutrition.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft helping clients whom have PCOS, interests in Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, or Weight Management. I help clients to craft personalized, attainable, and sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes that support their health. By collaboratively designing small, impactful steps that preserve quality of life and promote personal choice, I help my clients achieve their goals from better blood sugar control to increased energy.
(312) 517-2296 View (312) 517-2296
Photo of Randi Andres, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Randi Andres
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Other areas of expertise include but is not limited to, general healthy eating, weight management, IBS, and heart health.
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
Other areas of expertise include but is not limited to, general healthy eating, weight management, IBS, and heart health.
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
(305) 614-9182 View (305) 614-9182
Photo of Jan Patenaude, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
Jan Patenaude
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
56 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do your clients have chronic inflammatory health problems such as heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS), headaches, migraines, arthritis, Crohn's, colitis, Eosinophilic Esophagitis, sinusitis, fibromyalgia, chronic pain or eczema?
Do you have MRT blood test results but still don't know what to do? A Certified LEAP Therapist (CLT) can help, and I can help you find the right CLT for you. (Takes just a minute, no charge.) I recommend the Mediator Release Test (MRT) but only combined with LEAP Diet Protocol. (I don't recommend Alcat or IgG testing for food/chemical sensitivities.)
Do your clients have chronic inflammatory health problems such as heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS), headaches, migraines, arthritis, Crohn's, colitis, Eosinophilic Esophagitis, sinusitis, fibromyalgia, chronic pain or eczema?
Do you have MRT blood test results but still don't know what to do? A Certified LEAP Therapist (CLT) can help, and I can help you find the right CLT for you. (Takes just a minute, no charge.) I recommend the Mediator Release Test (MRT) but only combined with LEAP Diet Protocol. (I don't recommend Alcat or IgG testing for food/chemical sensitivities.)
(970) 340-2372 View (970) 340-2372
Photo of Shari Havourd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Shari Havourd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Serves Area
I am passionate about addressing the gut-brain axis and conditions like ADHD, anxiety, autoimmune, depression, disordered eating, eating disorders, GERD, insomnia, IBS, IBD, and SIBO.
Clients rebuild positive relationships with food & their bodies by reconnecting with internal cues, appreciating fun foods & fuel foods, and relearning true nutrition. We also explore how your big picture affects how you feel: food, movement, stress, sleep, digestion, labs, relationships, family and medical history. And we do all of this at your own pace.
I am passionate about addressing the gut-brain axis and conditions like ADHD, anxiety, autoimmune, depression, disordered eating, eating disorders, GERD, insomnia, IBS, IBD, and SIBO.
Clients rebuild positive relationships with food & their bodies by reconnecting with internal cues, appreciating fun foods & fuel foods, and relearning true nutrition. We also explore how your big picture affects how you feel: food, movement, stress, sleep, digestion, labs, relationships, family and medical history. And we do all of this at your own pace.
(970) 341-2027 View (970) 341-2027
Photo of Margo Gasta, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, RDN, CCH
Margo Gasta
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, RDN, CCH
Boulder, CO 80302
I provide advanced level integrative and functional nutritional care as well as homeopathy. I help people who are struggling with difficult chronic, complicated health issues who would like to add nutrition and homeopathy as a complement to their conventional medical care. I use nutritional testing to help pinpoint the root cause of your symptoms and to help balance your nutritional biochemistry. I also provide group coaching for people struggling with emotional and stress overeating. Please visit my website for more information and to book a free discovery call www.nutritionbymargo.com.
I provide advanced level integrative and functional nutritional care as well as homeopathy. I help people who are struggling with difficult chronic, complicated health issues who would like to add nutrition and homeopathy as a complement to their conventional medical care. I use nutritional testing to help pinpoint the root cause of your symptoms and to help balance your nutritional biochemistry. I also provide group coaching for people struggling with emotional and stress overeating. Please visit my website for more information and to book a free discovery call www.nutritionbymargo.com.
(720) 580-5746 View (720) 580-5746
Photo of Becky Bell, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP, CLT
Becky Bell
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP, CLT
1 Endorsed
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Ready to get rid of bloating, digestive issues, and and chronic fatigue? I use a functional approach to nutrition to help you get the root cause of your symptoms and find relief from your symptoms so you can reclaim your health, vibrant life. Even if you've been told your labs are "normal," I'll help you get to the bottom of the symptoms that are keeping you from feeling your best. I take a whole-person, personalized approach to your wellness. I'll give you a clear strategy to transform your health and help you make realistic and sustainable nutrition and lifestyle changes that will allow you to reach your goals.
Ready to get rid of bloating, digestive issues, and and chronic fatigue? I use a functional approach to nutrition to help you get the root cause of your symptoms and find relief from your symptoms so you can reclaim your health, vibrant life. Even if you've been told your labs are "normal," I'll help you get to the bottom of the symptoms that are keeping you from feeling your best. I take a whole-person, personalized approach to your wellness. I'll give you a clear strategy to transform your health and help you make realistic and sustainable nutrition and lifestyle changes that will allow you to reach your goals.
(720) 817-6853 View (720) 817-6853
Photo of Catherine A. Layden, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MNT, BS, CGP, BCHN®
Catherine A. Layden
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MNT, BS, CGP, BCHN®
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
HellIo! I am Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition (BCHN) with a natural, functional medicine approach. I can help you heal leaky gut, digestive pain, food intolerances/ sensitivities, autoimmune conditions and celiac damage. Therapeutic foods and nutrients banish cravings while balancing hormones and stress. I also work with mold, MCAS, histamine & CIRS. Have you tried conventional and alternative medicine not found the root concerns of your troubles? Let me connect the dots between your symptoms and create a personalized plan to achieve your goals. Visit my business website to learn more and schedule a Complimentary Intro Call.
HellIo! I am Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition (BCHN) with a natural, functional medicine approach. I can help you heal leaky gut, digestive pain, food intolerances/ sensitivities, autoimmune conditions and celiac damage. Therapeutic foods and nutrients banish cravings while balancing hormones and stress. I also work with mold, MCAS, histamine & CIRS. Have you tried conventional and alternative medicine not found the root concerns of your troubles? Let me connect the dots between your symptoms and create a personalized plan to achieve your goals. Visit my business website to learn more and schedule a Complimentary Intro Call.
(303) 622-5878 View (303) 622-5878
Photo of Tanya Goyette - Blooming Life Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
Blooming Life Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I help women over 40 learn to eat the right foods for their bodies without deprivation and change the way they work out to get leaner, increase muscle and strength, while having renewed vitality so you can be a happier and healthier you. I help you blossom – to reclaim your fitness, vibrancy and well-being by getting to the root cause of your health challenges – addressing macro balances, micronutrients, food sensitivities, gut health, and inflammation.
I help women over 40 learn to eat the right foods for their bodies without deprivation and change the way they work out to get leaner, increase muscle and strength, while having renewed vitality so you can be a happier and healthier you. I help you blossom – to reclaim your fitness, vibrancy and well-being by getting to the root cause of your health challenges – addressing macro balances, micronutrients, food sensitivities, gut health, and inflammation.
(720) 463-1200 View (720) 463-1200
Photo of Kristin Dennis - New Heights Nutrition- Kristin Dennis RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CPT
New Heights Nutrition- Kristin Dennis RD, LD
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CPT
Online Only
Are you struggling to implement change that lasts? Do you feel like you know what to do but just can’t seem to stick it out till the end? Or maybe you don’t quite know, and you need help cutting through the clutter of information and misinformation. Or perhaps you've got bigger things going on. You have unexplained symptoms or just know you don't feel "right" but are told that's every is ok. Or maybe told you can just take a pill for it, but you don't want to.
Are you struggling to implement change that lasts? Do you feel like you know what to do but just can’t seem to stick it out till the end? Or maybe you don’t quite know, and you need help cutting through the clutter of information and misinformation. Or perhaps you've got bigger things going on. You have unexplained symptoms or just know you don't feel "right" but are told that's every is ok. Or maybe told you can just take a pill for it, but you don't want to.
(303) 816-3415 View (303) 816-3415
Photo of Elizabeth Arensberg, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LSD
Elizabeth Arensberg
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LSD
Serves Area
Do you struggle with constipation, bloating, diarrhea, acid reflux, or stomach pain? Do unpredictable digestive symptoms make you avoid social outings, your favorite clothes, or even traveling? Have you tried everything—diets, supplements, and more—only to see zero improvement in your symptoms? What if your digestion was so reliable that you could confidently book that dream vacation without a second thought? Picture yourself savoring a meal out with friends, fully immersed in the conversation instead of worrying about your stomach.
Do you struggle with constipation, bloating, diarrhea, acid reflux, or stomach pain? Do unpredictable digestive symptoms make you avoid social outings, your favorite clothes, or even traveling? Have you tried everything—diets, supplements, and more—only to see zero improvement in your symptoms? What if your digestion was so reliable that you could confidently book that dream vacation without a second thought? Picture yourself savoring a meal out with friends, fully immersed in the conversation instead of worrying about your stomach.
(816) 441-3952 View (816) 441-3952
Photo of Tracy Brown, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD/N
Tracy Brown
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD/N
Serves Area
It is not often we are encouraged to honor our bodies needs.  We live in world that teaches us to "watch it" and "have it together", especially around weight and food.  Unfortunately, this constant pressure to "be good" can play a role in constant dieting, restricting, binging, purging and an all or nothing attitude around exercise.  Fortunately, we can make peace with food and our bodies again.  My approach of somatic nutrition therapy and coaching teaches intuitive eating and body wisdom skills to learn to trust our bodies again.
It is not often we are encouraged to honor our bodies needs.  We live in world that teaches us to "watch it" and "have it together", especially around weight and food.  Unfortunately, this constant pressure to "be good" can play a role in constant dieting, restricting, binging, purging and an all or nothing attitude around exercise.  Fortunately, we can make peace with food and our bodies again.  My approach of somatic nutrition therapy and coaching teaches intuitive eating and body wisdom skills to learn to trust our bodies again.
(239) 266-2502 View (239) 266-2502
Photo of Haley Golich - Redefine Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Redefine Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Online Only
It can be incredibly frustrating and discouraging to feel trapped in cycles of dieting, body image struggles, and emotional eating. Many of us have been taught that health equals restriction and perfection, or that happiness comes from a certain number on the scale, but I firmly believe that the key to lasting well-being lies in honoring your body, trusting its natural cues, and cultivating self-compassion. My true passion lies in helping people to reconnect with their bodies and cultivate a balanced, sustainable relationship with food.
It can be incredibly frustrating and discouraging to feel trapped in cycles of dieting, body image struggles, and emotional eating. Many of us have been taught that health equals restriction and perfection, or that happiness comes from a certain number on the scale, but I firmly believe that the key to lasting well-being lies in honoring your body, trusting its natural cues, and cultivating self-compassion. My true passion lies in helping people to reconnect with their bodies and cultivate a balanced, sustainable relationship with food.
(619) 348-6354 View (619) 348-6354
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.