Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Silver Spring, MD

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 Aubrey Stephenson Kepler - Potomac Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Potomac Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian
Online Only
Hi, welcome to Potomac Nutrition! We are a team of 3 dietitians and have openings now for new patients. At Potomac Nutrition, we work collaboratively with patients to help them reach their nutrition and health goals. All appointments are virtual at this time. Collectively, we have over 10 years of experience with nutrition counseling. We see patients with a variety of concerns such as autoimmune disease, endocrine disease, relationship with food, digestive health, heart health, women's health and PCOS, athletic performance, weight concerns and eating disorders. Each dietitian has a unique speciality for a variety of concerns.
Hi, welcome to Potomac Nutrition! We are a team of 3 dietitians and have openings now for new patients. At Potomac Nutrition, we work collaboratively with patients to help them reach their nutrition and health goals. All appointments are virtual at this time. Collectively, we have over 10 years of experience with nutrition counseling. We see patients with a variety of concerns such as autoimmune disease, endocrine disease, relationship with food, digestive health, heart health, women's health and PCOS, athletic performance, weight concerns and eating disorders. Each dietitian has a unique speciality for a variety of concerns.
(301) 900-3497 View (301) 900-3497
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
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 Patty McManamee, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, CNS, INHC
Patty McManamee
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, CNS, INHC
Online Only
helping clients improve overall gastrointestinal health (SIBO, IBS, heartburn/reflux, intestinal permeability, microbiome health, digestion and absorption issues.) I also work with CardioMetabolic issues, Women's Health issues, and Healthy weight loss.
Most of my clients come to me to lose weight, but often we discover other health issues that are causing the weight issues, such as, chronic inflammation, chronic stress, toxic overload, and gastrointestinal issues, such as, poor digestion and absorption of foods. It is my goal to understand someone's whole health story and discover the root cause of some of their health issues. I provide individualized treatment plans for each of my clients, and I allow them to decide what they are ready to take on with my support, expert guidance, and counseling.
helping clients improve overall gastrointestinal health (SIBO, IBS, heartburn/reflux, intestinal permeability, microbiome health, digestion and absorption issues.) I also work with CardioMetabolic issues, Women's Health issues, and Healthy weight loss.
Most of my clients come to me to lose weight, but often we discover other health issues that are causing the weight issues, such as, chronic inflammation, chronic stress, toxic overload, and gastrointestinal issues, such as, poor digestion and absorption of foods. It is my goal to understand someone's whole health story and discover the root cause of some of their health issues. I provide individualized treatment plans for each of my clients, and I allow them to decide what they are ready to take on with my support, expert guidance, and counseling.
(301) 409-5247 View (301) 409-5247
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 Gabriella Nowicki, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Gabriella Nowicki
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Gabby. I am a registered dietitian that works with clients in Maryland and virtually across the USA. I have lived with chronic illness since I was 14, which inspired me to get into the nutrition field. However, over the many years of my education, I developed a poor relationship with food and body image.
Hello! My name is Gabby. I am a registered dietitian that works with clients in Maryland and virtually across the USA. I have lived with chronic illness since I was 14, which inspired me to get into the nutrition field. However, over the many years of my education, I developed a poor relationship with food and body image.
(240) 607-5076 View (240) 607-5076
Photo of Brittany Kern, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDRD
Brittany Kern
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDRD
Online Only
Hi, I'm Britt Kern, a registered dietitian specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, disordered eating, weight concerns, autoimmune disorders, digestive disorders, and food sensitivities. With a compassionate and holistic approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals cultivate a healthy and balanced relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves. I hold a degree in nutrition and dietetics and am licensed as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). My previous experience spans high-level care settings, including inpatient, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP).
Hi, I'm Britt Kern, a registered dietitian specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, disordered eating, weight concerns, autoimmune disorders, digestive disorders, and food sensitivities. With a compassionate and holistic approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals cultivate a healthy and balanced relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves. I hold a degree in nutrition and dietetics and am licensed as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). My previous experience spans high-level care settings, including inpatient, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP).
(571) 339-0360 View (571) 339-0360
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 Mary Davis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Mary Davis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're living with gastrointestinal issues such as IBS, Crohns disease, reflux, bloating, colitis, IBD, diverticulitis, pancreatitis, food sensitivities and GI cancers I can help you to find relief from your symptoms.
I'm passionate about working with clients individually and setting realistic nutrition goals. This leads to success with clients feeling healthy, energetic and symptom-free. I help my clients to understand their diagnosis while maintaining and encouraging a healthy relationship with food.
If you're living with gastrointestinal issues such as IBS, Crohns disease, reflux, bloating, colitis, IBD, diverticulitis, pancreatitis, food sensitivities and GI cancers I can help you to find relief from your symptoms.
I'm passionate about working with clients individually and setting realistic nutrition goals. This leads to success with clients feeling healthy, energetic and symptom-free. I help my clients to understand their diagnosis while maintaining and encouraging a healthy relationship with food.
(443) 233-0348 View (443) 233-0348
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 Lili Rosenberg, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CNSC, CDCES
Lili Rosenberg
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CNSC, CDCES
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Not accepting new clients
Secondarily, I work with gastrointestinal problems such as IBS.
Hi All! My expertise is in hormonal health including PCOS, insulin resistance, diabetes and prediabetes and GI. I am a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES). I am an ardent ‘Health at Every Size’ provider and a member of the Association for Size Diversity and Health; see my profile on their site. I have a masters degree in nutrition and I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist licensed in New York, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Illinois. I can see clients from a variety of other states as well depending on reciprocity. LGBTQ+ provider. I work with insurance in most cases.
Secondarily, I work with gastrointestinal problems such as IBS.
Hi All! My expertise is in hormonal health including PCOS, insulin resistance, diabetes and prediabetes and GI. I am a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES). I am an ardent ‘Health at Every Size’ provider and a member of the Association for Size Diversity and Health; see my profile on their site. I have a masters degree in nutrition and I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist licensed in New York, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Illinois. I can see clients from a variety of other states as well depending on reciprocity. LGBTQ+ provider. I work with insurance in most cases.
(240) 363-1885 View (240) 363-1885

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

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 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 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 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 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
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.