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

Photo of Tanya Goyette - Blooming Life Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
Blooming Life Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
4 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 Cassie Petro, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN, CNS
Cassie Petro
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN, CNS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our lives revolve around and depend on food, which is why nurturing your relationship to food is crucial to your health and something I strive to help strengthen. My approach to nutrition therapy is collaborative and personalized to optimize function within the whole body. Evidence-based nutrition science, health coaching, and trauma-informed care guide my practice to meet the needs of each individual I work with. I recognize the various challenges that can impact proper nutrition and aim to reduce internal and external limitations through nutrition education, empowerment, and behavior change.
Our lives revolve around and depend on food, which is why nurturing your relationship to food is crucial to your health and something I strive to help strengthen. My approach to nutrition therapy is collaborative and personalized to optimize function within the whole body. Evidence-based nutrition science, health coaching, and trauma-informed care guide my practice to meet the needs of each individual I work with. I recognize the various challenges that can impact proper nutrition and aim to reduce internal and external limitations through nutrition education, empowerment, and behavior change.
(720) 580-4263 View (720) 580-4263

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Leah Grace Barack - Grace Functional Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
Grace Functional Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help women get to the root of stubborn bloating, constipation, and IBS using personalized nutrition, lifestyle shifts, and functional testing when needed.
I help women struggling with bloat, constipation, and digestive issues find real, lasting relief. Maybe you’ve tried “eat more fiber” and cutting foods out, but nothing really works—and you're tired of feeling stuck, sluggish, and uncomfortable in your own body. You just want to have a flat belly, regular bowel movements, feel lighter, and stop obsessing over your symptoms. If you’re craving real answers, consistent relief, and a clear path forward that feels doable and sustainable, I can help you get there.
I help women get to the root of stubborn bloating, constipation, and IBS using personalized nutrition, lifestyle shifts, and functional testing when needed.
I help women struggling with bloat, constipation, and digestive issues find real, lasting relief. Maybe you’ve tried “eat more fiber” and cutting foods out, but nothing really works—and you're tired of feeling stuck, sluggish, and uncomfortable in your own body. You just want to have a flat belly, regular bowel movements, feel lighter, and stop obsessing over your symptoms. If you’re craving real answers, consistent relief, and a clear path forward that feels doable and sustainable, I can help you get there.
View
Photo of Molly Ostrander - Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Online Only
You’re a high-achieving woman 40+ navigating perimenopause/menopause while battling chronic gut issues like bloating, unpredictable IBS flares, or Crohn’s discomfort.
Access personalized nutrition therapy (flexible scheduling), small group sessions, and membership options designed for your unique gut-hormone balance. You’ll follow a clear action plan with step-by-step guidance, optional lab testing, and ongoing support to heal your gut, optimize energy, modify sustainable habits and set yourself up to crush life.
You’re a high-achieving woman 40+ navigating perimenopause/menopause while battling chronic gut issues like bloating, unpredictable IBS flares, or Crohn’s discomfort.
Access personalized nutrition therapy (flexible scheduling), small group sessions, and membership options designed for your unique gut-hormone balance. You’ll follow a clear action plan with step-by-step guidance, optional lab testing, and ongoing support to heal your gut, optimize energy, modify sustainable habits and set yourself up to crush life.
(864) 514-4535 View (864) 514-4535
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 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 Margo Gasta, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, RDN, CCH
Margo Gasta
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, RDN, CCH
Serves Area
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 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 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 Nadia Pugh, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Nadia Pugh
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Nadia is passionate about women’s health, PCOS, fertility, thyroid and autoimmune disorders, renal health, and diabetes management. Her holistic approach focuses on individualized nutrition plans that cater to your unique needs and goals. She emphasizes that there’s no one-size-fits-all diet and aims to empower you with healthy eating habits that resonate with your preferences. Whether you’re addressing imbalances, seeking better habits, or enhancing your relationship with food, Nadia is committed to providing personalized support and practical advice for lasting well-being.
Nadia is passionate about women’s health, PCOS, fertility, thyroid and autoimmune disorders, renal health, and diabetes management. Her holistic approach focuses on individualized nutrition plans that cater to your unique needs and goals. She emphasizes that there’s no one-size-fits-all diet and aims to empower you with healthy eating habits that resonate with your preferences. Whether you’re addressing imbalances, seeking better habits, or enhancing your relationship with food, Nadia is committed to providing personalized support and practical advice for lasting well-being.
(904) 567-0490 View (904) 567-0490
Photo of Nicole Lindel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Nicole Lindel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Online Only
Nicole offers virtual nutrition counseling, personalized nutrition plans, and ongoing support to individuals suffering from digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and other gut-related conditions.
Nicole Lindel, MS, RDN is a registered dietitian with a specialty in gastroenterology. Her mission is to help patients restore and maintain gut health through personalized, evidence-based nutrition strategies that blend conventional and functional medicine principles. She aims to address the root causes of digestive disorders by creating tailored nutrition plans that improve symptoms, optimize gut health and overall well-being.
Nicole offers virtual nutrition counseling, personalized nutrition plans, and ongoing support to individuals suffering from digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and other gut-related conditions.
Nicole Lindel, MS, RDN is a registered dietitian with a specialty in gastroenterology. Her mission is to help patients restore and maintain gut health through personalized, evidence-based nutrition strategies that blend conventional and functional medicine principles. She aims to address the root causes of digestive disorders by creating tailored nutrition plans that improve symptoms, optimize gut health and overall well-being.
(720) 679-5381 View (720) 679-5381
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 Ryann Hilton - NourishRX Nutrition Counseling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
NourishRX Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety around meals, guilt after eating, or physical issues like digestive problems or hormonal imbalances? Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of dieting, restriction, or binging with no end in sight? Maybe you’re watching your child struggle with body image or refusing to eat, leaving you feeling worried and helpless. We understand that healing from an eating disorder isn’t just about food—it’s about rebuilding trust with your body and mind. Our personalized, non-judgmental approach helps you develop healthy habits. Our dietitians are here to guide you in reclaiming your health and finding long-term balance.
Are you struggling with anxiety around meals, guilt after eating, or physical issues like digestive problems or hormonal imbalances? Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of dieting, restriction, or binging with no end in sight? Maybe you’re watching your child struggle with body image or refusing to eat, leaving you feeling worried and helpless. We understand that healing from an eating disorder isn’t just about food—it’s about rebuilding trust with your body and mind. Our personalized, non-judgmental approach helps you develop healthy habits. Our dietitians are here to guide you in reclaiming your health and finding long-term balance.
(720) 868-9354 View (720) 868-9354
Photo of Tori Taggart - Rooted Health & Wellness, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Rooted Health & Wellness, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Castle Rock, CO 80104
Integrative Clinical nutrition is based on a scientific, evidence-based approach that considers the uniqueness of each person's biochemical individuality, in conjunction with genetic, environmental , lifestyle, mental, emotional, spiritual and relationship factors that impact the state of health. My personal story may be just like your own. Like many of you reading this, I suffered many years with health conditions that didn't fit into the mold of conventional medicine.
Integrative Clinical nutrition is based on a scientific, evidence-based approach that considers the uniqueness of each person's biochemical individuality, in conjunction with genetic, environmental , lifestyle, mental, emotional, spiritual and relationship factors that impact the state of health. My personal story may be just like your own. Like many of you reading this, I suffered many years with health conditions that didn't fit into the mold of conventional medicine.
(314) 310-4291 View (314) 310-4291
Photo of Lisa Lanzano - Essential Nutrition, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CIEC
Essential Nutrition, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CIEC
Denver, CO 80211
Looking for a nutrition professional who listens & takes your concerns to heart? Who tailors advice to YOUR unique needs? Who communicates with your healthcare providers on your behalf? At Essential Nutrition we care about your health & well-being. We take great pride in making sure we provide the best nutritional care possible. We are a group practice of Registered Dietitians who specialize in a variety of health conditions. We are "anti-dieting," "pro-peace" with food and bodies; and we blend evidence-based care with best practices of integrative medicine. We LOVE what we do. And we would love to help you! Please contact us today!
Looking for a nutrition professional who listens & takes your concerns to heart? Who tailors advice to YOUR unique needs? Who communicates with your healthcare providers on your behalf? At Essential Nutrition we care about your health & well-being. We take great pride in making sure we provide the best nutritional care possible. We are a group practice of Registered Dietitians who specialize in a variety of health conditions. We are "anti-dieting," "pro-peace" with food and bodies; and we blend evidence-based care with best practices of integrative medicine. We LOVE what we do. And we would love to help you! Please contact us today!
(720) 636-9178 View (720) 636-9178
Photo of Jerry Casados - Plant-Based Nutrition and Lifestyle, Nutritionist/Dietitian, NTP
Plant-Based Nutrition and Lifestyle
Nutritionist/Dietitian, NTP
Aurora, CO 80016
I work with clients to create nutrition plans based on their health goals and objectives. I will provide the personal coaching, nutritional information, tools, resources to guide and educate you to optimal health with a healthy lifestyle. I promote a dietary approach through whole foods and making the right dietary choices for optimal health by eliminating toxins in the diet. By adopting a plant-based diet that is based on decades of peer-reviewed scientific evidence in medical journals. In fact, it has been shown that 80 percent of chronic diseases are preventable, especially with a shift to a plant-based diet.
I work with clients to create nutrition plans based on their health goals and objectives. I will provide the personal coaching, nutritional information, tools, resources to guide and educate you to optimal health with a healthy lifestyle. I promote a dietary approach through whole foods and making the right dietary choices for optimal health by eliminating toxins in the diet. By adopting a plant-based diet that is based on decades of peer-reviewed scientific evidence in medical journals. In fact, it has been shown that 80 percent of chronic diseases are preventable, especially with a shift to a plant-based diet.
(303) 732-6155 View (303) 732-6155
Photo of Madeline Kuras, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Madeline Kuras
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
(651) 412-7437 View (651) 412-7437
Photo of Kelley Magill, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Kelley Magill
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Your health journey is personal and so is the care I provide. As a functional medicine dietitian, I help clients get to the root of chronic symptoms, hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, and fertility concerns by using evidence-based nutrition, advanced lab testing, and personalized lifestyle strategies. My approach is integrative and collaborative. Whether you're feeling dismissed by conventional care, frustrated with symptoms that don't make sense, or simply seeking to feel your best again, I'm here to listen, guide, and empower you with a plan that’s tailored to your unique body and goals.
Your health journey is personal and so is the care I provide. As a functional medicine dietitian, I help clients get to the root of chronic symptoms, hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, and fertility concerns by using evidence-based nutrition, advanced lab testing, and personalized lifestyle strategies. My approach is integrative and collaborative. Whether you're feeling dismissed by conventional care, frustrated with symptoms that don't make sense, or simply seeking to feel your best again, I'm here to listen, guide, and empower you with a plan that’s tailored to your unique body and goals.
(720) 912-8798 View (720) 912-8798
Photo of Nell Harloe, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Nell Harloe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Online Only
I’ve been working in the field of dietetics for over 18 years, with the last 13 working for a top health insurance company. During that time, I’ve spent over 26,000 hours treating and counseling over 15,000 clients. I’ve helped my patients manage various health conditions including weight management, diabetes, bariatric, gastrointestinal health, oncology, renal, cardiovascular, PCOS, menopause, thyroid health and autoimmune disorders. I have extensive experience working with clients seeking assistance with weight, diabetes management, and improving their cardiac health.
I’ve been working in the field of dietetics for over 18 years, with the last 13 working for a top health insurance company. During that time, I’ve spent over 26,000 hours treating and counseling over 15,000 clients. I’ve helped my patients manage various health conditions including weight management, diabetes, bariatric, gastrointestinal health, oncology, renal, cardiovascular, PCOS, menopause, thyroid health and autoimmune disorders. I have extensive experience working with clients seeking assistance with weight, diabetes management, and improving their cardiac health.
(855) 624-5438 View (855) 624-5438
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.