Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Maryland City, MD

Photo of Sofia Mendes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Sofia Mendes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a registered dietitian who is passionate about guiding others toward a healthier, more positive relationship with food and their bodies. I understand that nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all journey, which is why I prioritize a client-centered approach and tailor my care to each individual. In a world overwhelmed by nutrition myths and misinformation, I strive to cut through the noise and make healthy living approachable and clear. I recognize that every person has unique nutritional needs, so I ensure that my guidance reflects that.
I am a registered dietitian who is passionate about guiding others toward a healthier, more positive relationship with food and their bodies. I understand that nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all journey, which is why I prioritize a client-centered approach and tailor my care to each individual. In a world overwhelmed by nutrition myths and misinformation, I strive to cut through the noise and make healthy living approachable and clear. I recognize that every person has unique nutritional needs, so I ensure that my guidance reflects that.
(630) 496-4611 View (630) 496-4611

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Kerri Holmquist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders ( IBS), Diabetes, Diabetes, Pregnancy Nutrition, and Weight Management. Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders ( IBS), Diabetes, Diabetes, Pregnancy Nutrition, and Weight Management. Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677
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 Brittany Norem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Brittany Norem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
(904) 467-7389 View (904) 467-7389
Photo of Meg Bowman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CHES
Meg Bowman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CHES
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client has done everything right, followed plans, taken supplements, read the books, but still feels anxious, exhausted, or disconnected from their body. They often struggle with digestion, hormones, or stress related symptoms and want to understand why. They are ready for a compassionate, science based approach that honors both body and mind. Together, we restore a sense of safety first so energy, digestion, and calm can follow naturally.
My ideal client has done everything right, followed plans, taken supplements, read the books, but still feels anxious, exhausted, or disconnected from their body. They often struggle with digestion, hormones, or stress related symptoms and want to understand why. They are ready for a compassionate, science based approach that honors both body and mind. Together, we restore a sense of safety first so energy, digestion, and calm can follow naturally.
(847) 278-9449 View (847) 278-9449
Photo of Maureen Rieras, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Maureen Rieras
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
My name is Maureen Rieras and I am a Certified Nutrition Specialist licensed in the state of Maryland. I am a preferred provider for BCBS/CareFirst. My practice is rooted in treating the whole person. Food is fundamental to great health and there are other aspects that may need to be addressed as well. We’ll look at your lifestyle, sleep, exercise, relationships, work, and underlying health conditions. I strongly believe that “food is medicine” because what’s on the end of your fork has the power to heal your body. I also use herbs and supplements for specific conditions to facilitate healing and replenish the body.
My name is Maureen Rieras and I am a Certified Nutrition Specialist licensed in the state of Maryland. I am a preferred provider for BCBS/CareFirst. My practice is rooted in treating the whole person. Food is fundamental to great health and there are other aspects that may need to be addressed as well. We’ll look at your lifestyle, sleep, exercise, relationships, work, and underlying health conditions. I strongly believe that “food is medicine” because what’s on the end of your fork has the power to heal your body. I also use herbs and supplements for specific conditions to facilitate healing and replenish the body.
(240) 209-9880 View (240) 209-9880
Photo of Saima Chaudhry, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDCES
Saima Chaudhry
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDCES
Online Only
I empower individuals to overcome health challenges and achieve their goals through personalized, sustainable plans. My approach is rooted in real food and the mind-body connection to support deep healing and lasting wellness. Whether you're navigating diabetes, digestive issues, or other conditions, I offer expert guidance, practical tools, and compassionate coaching to help you take charge of your health. With small, achievable steps, I make the journey simple, sustainable, and transformative—so you can thrive and live a vibrant, fulfilling life.
I empower individuals to overcome health challenges and achieve their goals through personalized, sustainable plans. My approach is rooted in real food and the mind-body connection to support deep healing and lasting wellness. Whether you're navigating diabetes, digestive issues, or other conditions, I offer expert guidance, practical tools, and compassionate coaching to help you take charge of your health. With small, achievable steps, I make the journey simple, sustainable, and transformative—so you can thrive and live a vibrant, fulfilling life.
(240) 776-7682 View (240) 776-7682
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 Nourish Registered Dietitian Nutritionists - Nourish Family Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Nourish Family Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
At Nourish, we don’t lecture, body shame, or give clients generic nutrition plans. Our caring professionals help each individual achieve and maintain optimal health and a positive body image through collaborative goal setting, tailored, science-based nutrition plans, and other industry best practices. Tired of bouncing from diet to diet and Googling nutrition advice? Quick fixes aren’t long-term solutions. You’ll achieve and maintain your goals with our personalized, sustainable nutrition plans. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to nutrition counseling.
At Nourish, we don’t lecture, body shame, or give clients generic nutrition plans. Our caring professionals help each individual achieve and maintain optimal health and a positive body image through collaborative goal setting, tailored, science-based nutrition plans, and other industry best practices. Tired of bouncing from diet to diet and Googling nutrition advice? Quick fixes aren’t long-term solutions. You’ll achieve and maintain your goals with our personalized, sustainable nutrition plans. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to nutrition counseling.
(410) 394-8291 View (410) 394-8291
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.