Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Lake Elmo, MN

Photo of Jen Sletten, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MA
Jen Sletten
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I LOVE helping people live healthier. My style is highly comprehensive - looking at the many pieces that make up our nutritional health. I am skillful at helping people reach a healthier weight (especially those who have attempted other ways unsuccessfully). I am also passionate about topics like brain health, good mood foods, preteen/teen nutrition, ADHD/ADD, confidence and self- esteem, nutrient deficiencies, eating best for your DNA, food sensitivity and anti-inflammation recommendations (Leap MRT testing). I also have a significant clinical background so eating for healthy aging and disease prevention is also in my wheelhouse.
I LOVE helping people live healthier. My style is highly comprehensive - looking at the many pieces that make up our nutritional health. I am skillful at helping people reach a healthier weight (especially those who have attempted other ways unsuccessfully). I am also passionate about topics like brain health, good mood foods, preteen/teen nutrition, ADHD/ADD, confidence and self- esteem, nutrient deficiencies, eating best for your DNA, food sensitivity and anti-inflammation recommendations (Leap MRT testing). I also have a significant clinical background so eating for healthy aging and disease prevention is also in my wheelhouse.
(651) 505-8482 View (651) 505-8482
Photo of Teresa Wagner, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LD, RDN, RD
Teresa Wagner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LD, RDN, RD
Serves Area
Teresa, a registered dietitian, is passionate about real food nutrition and behavior change. She helps clients build sustainable, healthy relationships with food, emphasizing whole, nutrient-dense ingredients and personalized guidance to foster lasting lifestyle improvements. With clinical and teaching experience, she views food as medicine, influencing energy, sleep, mood, and digestion. An avid runner and weight training enthusiast, she completed the Boston Marathon, inspiring her balanced approach to diet and fitness. Teresa empowers clients to overcome cravings and avoid all-or-nothing mindsets.
Teresa, a registered dietitian, is passionate about real food nutrition and behavior change. She helps clients build sustainable, healthy relationships with food, emphasizing whole, nutrient-dense ingredients and personalized guidance to foster lasting lifestyle improvements. With clinical and teaching experience, she views food as medicine, influencing energy, sleep, mood, and digestion. An avid runner and weight training enthusiast, she completed the Boston Marathon, inspiring her balanced approach to diet and fitness. Teresa empowers clients to overcome cravings and avoid all-or-nothing mindsets.
(651) 401-7293 View (651) 401-7293

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Katie Gross, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Katie Gross
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Katie specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), Oncology Nutritional needs, Thyroid Disorders, Weight Management, Diabetes, General Healthy Eating, GERD, and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Katie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that collaborates with all clients to create sustainable lifestyle changes that support their overall health and well-being. Food acts as fuel but also has the ability to cultivate memories, emotions and traditions. She believes that food should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. With an “all foods fit”, body positive approach, Katie focuses on identifying individual barriers and personal preferences as she works closely to establish confidence in clients reaching their unique goals.
Katie specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), Oncology Nutritional needs, Thyroid Disorders, Weight Management, Diabetes, General Healthy Eating, GERD, and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Katie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that collaborates with all clients to create sustainable lifestyle changes that support their overall health and well-being. Food acts as fuel but also has the ability to cultivate memories, emotions and traditions. She believes that food should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. With an “all foods fit”, body positive approach, Katie focuses on identifying individual barriers and personal preferences as she works closely to establish confidence in clients reaching their unique goals.
(612) 326-0011 View (612) 326-0011
Photo of Ashley Oswald, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, IFNCP, CLT
Ashley Oswald
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, IFNCP, CLT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Digestive and Autoimmune Issues, including but not limited to: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, SIBO, Food Intolerances, Sensitivities, Allergies, Arthritis, Eczema, Acne, Migraines, Headaches, Other digestive and autoimmune symptoms.
We Are A Virtual Clinic Helping You To Find Peace From Your Gut Struggles. Book an INITIAL APPOINTMENT here: https://www.oswalddigestiveclinic.com/scheduling
Digestive and Autoimmune Issues, including but not limited to: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, SIBO, Food Intolerances, Sensitivities, Allergies, Arthritis, Eczema, Acne, Migraines, Headaches, Other digestive and autoimmune symptoms.
We Are A Virtual Clinic Helping You To Find Peace From Your Gut Struggles. Book an INITIAL APPOINTMENT here: https://www.oswalddigestiveclinic.com/scheduling
(952) 230-1152 View (952) 230-1152
Photo of Lindsay Midura, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Lindsay Midura
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm Lindsay, Functional Medicine Dietitian and Eating Disorder Specialist. I am passionate about helping my clients find healing from digestive distress and/or hormonal imbalances. Our relationship with food is the most consistent and intimate connection we have in our lifetime. Like many important relationships, how we connect and interact with food can become confusing, overwhelming and complicated. Do you find yourself lost among mixed messages of how to care for your health? Are you struggling with your health and want to find a sustainable way to use food as a healing tool? Peace with food and your body is possible for you.
Hi! I'm Lindsay, Functional Medicine Dietitian and Eating Disorder Specialist. I am passionate about helping my clients find healing from digestive distress and/or hormonal imbalances. Our relationship with food is the most consistent and intimate connection we have in our lifetime. Like many important relationships, how we connect and interact with food can become confusing, overwhelming and complicated. Do you find yourself lost among mixed messages of how to care for your health? Are you struggling with your health and want to find a sustainable way to use food as a healing tool? Peace with food and your body is possible for you.
(312) 766-6802 View (312) 766-6802
Photo of Morgan Beemiller, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Morgan Beemiller
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Morgan is a hard working and compassionate dietitian with 6 years of inpatient and outpatient experience. Morgan is willing to meet you where you are, creating interventions to align with your unique goals. Morgan provides HAES-aligned care and emphasizes a non-diet approach for her nutrition counseling/interventions. Morgan's methods within sessions are non-judgemental, inclusive, and collaborative allowing the client to feel comfortable and vulnerable when sharing background, stories, etc. Morgan works with her clients to understand the “why” and establish individualized goals to support results.
Morgan is a hard working and compassionate dietitian with 6 years of inpatient and outpatient experience. Morgan is willing to meet you where you are, creating interventions to align with your unique goals. Morgan provides HAES-aligned care and emphasizes a non-diet approach for her nutrition counseling/interventions. Morgan's methods within sessions are non-judgemental, inclusive, and collaborative allowing the client to feel comfortable and vulnerable when sharing background, stories, etc. Morgan works with her clients to understand the “why” and establish individualized goals to support results.
(470) 465-9204 View (470) 465-9204
Photo of Emmy Bright, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Emmy Bright
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Serves Area
I specialize in providing HAES-based medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions including GI Disorders ( IBS, Celiac, GERD, & many more), Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Diabetes, Heart Health, Pregnancy, Menopause, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Food Allergies, and Autoimmune Conditions.
You’re the expert of your own body, and I'm here to listen and support you. My work is rooted in Intuitive Eating, so I'll help you have a healthy & balanced relationship with food by sharing non-restrictive, research-backed nutrition recommendations instead of food rules, strict diets, and questionable nutrition BS recycled from social media.
I specialize in providing HAES-based medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions including GI Disorders ( IBS, Celiac, GERD, & many more), Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Diabetes, Heart Health, Pregnancy, Menopause, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Food Allergies, and Autoimmune Conditions.
You’re the expert of your own body, and I'm here to listen and support you. My work is rooted in Intuitive Eating, so I'll help you have a healthy & balanced relationship with food by sharing non-restrictive, research-backed nutrition recommendations instead of food rules, strict diets, and questionable nutrition BS recycled from social media.
(608) 535-6692 View (608) 535-6692
Photo of Danielle Hendrix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
Danielle Hendrix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
(346) 666-7394 View (346) 666-7394
Photo of Lauren Furgiuele, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Lauren Furgiuele
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions like birth control, restrictive diets, or cookie-cutter group programs, my collaborative and personalized approach empowers clients to build trust in themselves while learning how to best nourish their bodies through tailored and realistic nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement strategies.
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions like birth control, restrictive diets, or cookie-cutter group programs, my collaborative and personalized approach empowers clients to build trust in themselves while learning how to best nourish their bodies through tailored and realistic nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement strategies.
(828) 383-9686 View (828) 383-9686
Photo of Erin Barnes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT
Erin Barnes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Are you wanting to make changes with your diet and lifestyle but don't know where to start? Navigating this complex food world can be daunting, it's my mission to provide a non-judgemental, caring space to help my clients get started. Through my work with hundreds of clients and through navigating my own health and healing journey, I have learned to embody a simple, approachable, non-diet, food-first philosophy.
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Are you wanting to make changes with your diet and lifestyle but don't know where to start? Navigating this complex food world can be daunting, it's my mission to provide a non-judgemental, caring space to help my clients get started. Through my work with hundreds of clients and through navigating my own health and healing journey, I have learned to embody a simple, approachable, non-diet, food-first philosophy.
(952) 529-4234 View (952) 529-4234
Photo of Ricci-Lee Hotz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Ricci-Lee Hotz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My nutrition philosophy is unique in that I focus on providing evidence-based, individualized nutrition recommendations focusing on moderation, variety, and how to fit patients' favorite foods into a healthy eating lifestyle. This can improve quality of life for many individuals who feel they must restrict certain foods to be healthy or lose weight. In addition, I have a special passion for working with individuals with eating disorders, athletes/dancers, weight management, and GI conditions/food allergies. I look forward to supporting you in your nutrition and health journey.
My nutrition philosophy is unique in that I focus on providing evidence-based, individualized nutrition recommendations focusing on moderation, variety, and how to fit patients' favorite foods into a healthy eating lifestyle. This can improve quality of life for many individuals who feel they must restrict certain foods to be healthy or lose weight. In addition, I have a special passion for working with individuals with eating disorders, athletes/dancers, weight management, and GI conditions/food allergies. I look forward to supporting you in your nutrition and health journey.
(612) 482-5327 View (612) 482-5327
Photo of Janelle A Fuchs, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, IFNCP, CLT
Janelle A Fuchs
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, IFNCP, CLT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Nutrition is an essential and often missing piece to mental health plans. Janelle at Upstream Nutrition takes a personalized look at your nutrition to support your mental health and brain health. In addition to mental health, many of my clients are also experiencing digestive disorders, chronic pain or fatigue, migraines, PCOS/infertility, PMDD, blood sugar imbalances, or other chronic challenges. We look at it all together. I offer a weight inclusive approach to nutrition with a focus on whole foods and supporting meal planning & intuitive eating skills to help you feel your best. I do not offer weight loss services.
Nutrition is an essential and often missing piece to mental health plans. Janelle at Upstream Nutrition takes a personalized look at your nutrition to support your mental health and brain health. In addition to mental health, many of my clients are also experiencing digestive disorders, chronic pain or fatigue, migraines, PCOS/infertility, PMDD, blood sugar imbalances, or other chronic challenges. We look at it all together. I offer a weight inclusive approach to nutrition with a focus on whole foods and supporting meal planning & intuitive eating skills to help you feel your best. I do not offer weight loss services.
(612) 223-7379 View (612) 223-7379
Photo of Holly Wruck, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Holly Wruck
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55401
I have experience in eating disorders, diabetes, kidney disease, heart health, IBS/GI issues, and enjoy helping people change their relationship with food and their body.
I strive to build confidence in your choices and become more in tune with your body's cues and needs. I seek to help my clients meet their wellness goals through an individualized approach. Whether you are looking for general nutrition education, improving your relationship with food, or other nutrition and health related challenges, I look forward to partnering with you on your journey.
I have experience in eating disorders, diabetes, kidney disease, heart health, IBS/GI issues, and enjoy helping people change their relationship with food and their body.
I strive to build confidence in your choices and become more in tune with your body's cues and needs. I seek to help my clients meet their wellness goals through an individualized approach. Whether you are looking for general nutrition education, improving your relationship with food, or other nutrition and health related challenges, I look forward to partnering with you on your journey.
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Photo of Jan Patenaude, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
Jan Patenaude
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
48 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 Jessica Lind, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Jessica Lind
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Wayzata, MN 55391
Hi there! I'm Jess - exciting to find you here! I refer to the care I provide as "nutrition therapy" rather than "dietitian services" because that feels most authentic to me. I have specialty training in eating disorders and a background in mental health, so no matter what sort of support you're looking for this is a safe space to examine all of the factors impacting your eating behaviors. I practice from a "Health At Every Size"-informed lens and include topics of intuitive eating and social justice in the care I provide. My practice has included people of all ages, gender identities, racial backgrounds, and religious beliefs.
Hi there! I'm Jess - exciting to find you here! I refer to the care I provide as "nutrition therapy" rather than "dietitian services" because that feels most authentic to me. I have specialty training in eating disorders and a background in mental health, so no matter what sort of support you're looking for this is a safe space to examine all of the factors impacting your eating behaviors. I practice from a "Health At Every Size"-informed lens and include topics of intuitive eating and social justice in the care I provide. My practice has included people of all ages, gender identities, racial backgrounds, and religious beliefs.
(612) 424-1704 View (612) 424-1704
Photo of Ava Ajlouny, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Ava Ajlouny
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ava’s ideal client is someone who is curious about nutrition and ready to make real, lasting changes. They want to break free from diets, rebuild their relationship with food, and learn to trust their body’s cues. They’re interested in hormone balance, gut health, anti-inflammatory eating, and sustainable habits that support energy and well-being. They value guidance, education, and accountability as they move toward intuitive eating, joyful movement, and long-term health.
Ava’s ideal client is someone who is curious about nutrition and ready to make real, lasting changes. They want to break free from diets, rebuild their relationship with food, and learn to trust their body’s cues. They’re interested in hormone balance, gut health, anti-inflammatory eating, and sustainable habits that support energy and well-being. They value guidance, education, and accountability as they move toward intuitive eating, joyful movement, and long-term health.
(614) 756-2433 View (614) 756-2433
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
Photo of Britni Vincent, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Britni Vincent
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I've experienced the healing power of nutrition firsthand, having struggled with insomnia, acne and regular migraines before I realized my diet was the culprit. I understand that an individualized approach is necessary to achieve the same kinds of results I experienced, which is why I am here to support, motivate and educate you the whole way so you too can experience the positive effects of nutrition. I find it extremely rewarding to see how nutrition can positively change people's lives. Let's get started on your success story.
I've experienced the healing power of nutrition firsthand, having struggled with insomnia, acne and regular migraines before I realized my diet was the culprit. I understand that an individualized approach is necessary to achieve the same kinds of results I experienced, which is why I am here to support, motivate and educate you the whole way so you too can experience the positive effects of nutrition. I find it extremely rewarding to see how nutrition can positively change people's lives. Let's get started on your success story.
(952) 283-0699 View (952) 283-0699
Photo of Abby M Olson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT, CGN
Abby M Olson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT, CGN
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Healing often requires exploring beyond conventional methods, which is where functional and integrative nutrition comes in. Due to my own health challenges, I was compelled to seek a new approach to healing. What I’ve learned through nutrition has made me passionate about helping others who face struggles like disordered eating, inflammation, and gut dysfunction. I’m dedicated to sharing my knowledge and experiences, and I continue to learn so that others may heal and rediscover balance in their lives.
Healing often requires exploring beyond conventional methods, which is where functional and integrative nutrition comes in. Due to my own health challenges, I was compelled to seek a new approach to healing. What I’ve learned through nutrition has made me passionate about helping others who face struggles like disordered eating, inflammation, and gut dysfunction. I’m dedicated to sharing my knowledge and experiences, and I continue to learn so that others may heal and rediscover balance in their lives.
(651) 314-4250 View (651) 314-4250
Photo of Priyanka Sagar, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RDN, LD
Priyanka Sagar
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RDN, LD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Our main focus is chronic disease management like gut issues, IBS, Crohn's /Colitis, auto-immune diseases, pre-diabetes/ diabetes, hormonal and heart health, metabolic health, hypertension, vegetarian nutrition, brain health, gut issues, and preventive wellness.
Hey! Are you feeling lost in the sea of conflicting nutrition advice? Wondering which foods would support your health? You’re not alone, you’re in the right place! I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in MN with 14+ years of holistic experience, helping busy Minnesotans simplify eating, feel better, and transform their health—without the stress. On top, we accept major insurances so your nutrition appointments could be fully covered if we are in-network. All services are virtual video visits for your convenience and coordinated with your doctor’s office. (Note: Medicare covers nutrition only for diabetes or renal diagnoses.)
Our main focus is chronic disease management like gut issues, IBS, Crohn's /Colitis, auto-immune diseases, pre-diabetes/ diabetes, hormonal and heart health, metabolic health, hypertension, vegetarian nutrition, brain health, gut issues, and preventive wellness.
Hey! Are you feeling lost in the sea of conflicting nutrition advice? Wondering which foods would support your health? You’re not alone, you’re in the right place! I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in MN with 14+ years of holistic experience, helping busy Minnesotans simplify eating, feel better, and transform their health—without the stress. On top, we accept major insurances so your nutrition appointments could be fully covered if we are in-network. All services are virtual video visits for your convenience and coordinated with your doctor’s office. (Note: Medicare covers nutrition only for diabetes or renal diagnoses.)
(612) 688-9507 View (612) 688-9507
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.