Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Watauga County, NC

Photo of Jenny Askew, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT, ACSM EP
Jenny Askew
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT, ACSM EP
2 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Digestive disorders such as IBS, IBD, celiac, and GERD are our specialties.
Functional nutrition testing allows us to identify and correct imbalances in your digestive tract. We use LEAP/MRT testing to create personalized elimination diets to help correct food sensitivities. We also can dig deeper to assess the health of your gut so underlying imbalances contributing to your digestive issues can be corrected.
Digestive disorders such as IBS, IBD, celiac, and GERD are our specialties.
Functional nutrition testing allows us to identify and correct imbalances in your digestive tract. We use LEAP/MRT testing to create personalized elimination diets to help correct food sensitivities. We also can dig deeper to assess the health of your gut so underlying imbalances contributing to your digestive issues can be corrected.
(678) 582-1475 View (678) 582-1475
Photo of Sarah Helmick, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Sarah Helmick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with a number of individuals including those who are looking to improve their relationship with food and their bodies, let go of beliefs about food that are preventing them from living a full life, and those who are struggling with chronic health concerns and wanting to learn more about nutrition habits that can be supportive to their well being.
I enjoy working with a number of individuals including those who are looking to improve their relationship with food and their bodies, let go of beliefs about food that are preventing them from living a full life, and those who are struggling with chronic health concerns and wanting to learn more about nutrition habits that can be supportive to their well being.
(828) 516-9602 View (828) 516-9602
Photo of Michelle Rizzi Shelfer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S
Michelle Rizzi Shelfer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S
Boone, NC 28607
My goal is to meet people where they are, and aid them in building a sustainable relationship with food and movement. I educate on how improving their nutrition can improve their mental and emotional health along with their physical well-being. I focus on "Improvement, not perfection!" As a certified group fitness instructor for over 22 years, I am able to help clients design a movement plan that works for them. While using a H.A.E.S, and intuitive eating approach, they are able to enjoy the journey of improvibg their relationship with food and movement.
My goal is to meet people where they are, and aid them in building a sustainable relationship with food and movement. I educate on how improving their nutrition can improve their mental and emotional health along with their physical well-being. I focus on "Improvement, not perfection!" As a certified group fitness instructor for over 22 years, I am able to help clients design a movement plan that works for them. While using a H.A.E.S, and intuitive eating approach, they are able to enjoy the journey of improvibg their relationship with food and movement.
(828) 337-5148 View (828) 337-5148
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

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Mary Beth Hynek - MB Hynek Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
MB Hynek Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Winston Salem, NC 27106
My goal is to empower people to build healthy, balanced lifestyles while genuinely enjoying the foods they eat. I believe that nutrition is one of the most powerful tools for preventing disease and promoting lifelong wellness. Rather than focusing on restrictions, I emphasize the abundance of nourishing, delicious foods that can enhance both health and quality of life. My approach is centered on providing expert guidance and unwavering support, making the path to better health both achievable and sustainable.
My goal is to empower people to build healthy, balanced lifestyles while genuinely enjoying the foods they eat. I believe that nutrition is one of the most powerful tools for preventing disease and promoting lifelong wellness. Rather than focusing on restrictions, I emphasize the abundance of nourishing, delicious foods that can enhance both health and quality of life. My approach is centered on providing expert guidance and unwavering support, making the path to better health both achievable and sustainable.
(336) 360-6146 View (336) 360-6146
Photo of Rebecca Subbiah, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Rebecca Subbiah
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I can also help with the low FODMAP approach for IBS ( Monash trained), support with raising healthy, intuitive eaters and family nutrition.
You are valued and of worth, you matter and your wellbeing is important. Anchored Nutrition Therapy approaches health through a HAES (Health at Every Size) lens promoting weight inclusivity, health promoting behaviors, a flexible eating approach based on intuitive eating, meeting your nutritional needs, learning to be in tune with your body and enjoy your food. Helping you find joy in movement. All are welcome.
I can also help with the low FODMAP approach for IBS ( Monash trained), support with raising healthy, intuitive eaters and family nutrition.
You are valued and of worth, you matter and your wellbeing is important. Anchored Nutrition Therapy approaches health through a HAES (Health at Every Size) lens promoting weight inclusivity, health promoting behaviors, a flexible eating approach based on intuitive eating, meeting your nutritional needs, learning to be in tune with your body and enjoy your food. Helping you find joy in movement. All are welcome.
(336) 395-5085 View (336) 395-5085
Photo of Avance Nutrition-Onsite And Virtual Services - Avance Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Avance Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Charlotte, NC 28204
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
(984) 789-5087 View (984) 789-5087
Photo of Cheryl Buckley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, MBA , LDN, MS
Cheryl Buckley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, MBA , LDN, MS
Charlotte, NC 28210
I help individuals overcome dysfunction in their bodies from a holistic approach. I specifically target gut health, look at your lifestyle, nutrition, symptoms, and imbalances in your body, and create a personalized nutrition plan to help improve your overall well-being. Please visit my website for more information. Https://www.cherylbuckley.com
I help individuals overcome dysfunction in their bodies from a holistic approach. I specifically target gut health, look at your lifestyle, nutrition, symptoms, and imbalances in your body, and create a personalized nutrition plan to help improve your overall well-being. Please visit my website for more information. Https://www.cherylbuckley.com
(704) 665-0042 View (704) 665-0042
Photo of Christina Marie Overstreet - Food Full Circle, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Food Full Circle, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Online Only
It brings me great joy to help people repairing their relationship with food & their body alongside any other health concerns they may have as well, such as IBS/gut challenges, high cholesterol, or fertility challenges.
Every person deserves to have a peaceful relationship with food and their body, and I love helping my clients get there (while acknowledging the systems that limit it for many of us). By combining mindfulness principles with integrative/functional nutrition and meeting yourself where you’re at, we can create slow, sustainable, realistic changes that support YOUR personal body. This is nutrition for EVERY body, full-circle. If you’re ready to stop constantly thinking about food, obsessing over ingredients, counting calories, and feeling frequent guilt/shame about your food choices/body, I’d LOVE to help you!
It brings me great joy to help people repairing their relationship with food & their body alongside any other health concerns they may have as well, such as IBS/gut challenges, high cholesterol, or fertility challenges.
Every person deserves to have a peaceful relationship with food and their body, and I love helping my clients get there (while acknowledging the systems that limit it for many of us). By combining mindfulness principles with integrative/functional nutrition and meeting yourself where you’re at, we can create slow, sustainable, realistic changes that support YOUR personal body. This is nutrition for EVERY body, full-circle. If you’re ready to stop constantly thinking about food, obsessing over ingredients, counting calories, and feeling frequent guilt/shame about your food choices/body, I’d LOVE to help you!
(704) 275-0714 View (704) 275-0714
Photo of Maggie G Gartman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP
Maggie G Gartman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP
Online Only
Hello! I am an Integrative & Functional Registered Dietitian specializing in Gut, Inflammatory and Metabolic Conditions. I believe in the power of food as medicine and root-cause methodology to support my patients optimal health, to prevent and manage chronic diseases, and to promote wellness. My approach utilizes an expanded toolkit of evidence-based Integrative and Functional Nutrition practices and can be employed to support a wide range of conditions. I offer advanced functional nutrition testing for food sensitivities, micronutrient deficiencies and stool testing.
Hello! I am an Integrative & Functional Registered Dietitian specializing in Gut, Inflammatory and Metabolic Conditions. I believe in the power of food as medicine and root-cause methodology to support my patients optimal health, to prevent and manage chronic diseases, and to promote wellness. My approach utilizes an expanded toolkit of evidence-based Integrative and Functional Nutrition practices and can be employed to support a wide range of conditions. I offer advanced functional nutrition testing for food sensitivities, micronutrient deficiencies and stool testing.
(984) 230-9334 View (984) 230-9334
Photo of Gina Marie Gilchrist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Gina Marie Gilchrist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28227
Gina Gilchrist is a Registered Dietitian with 24 years of experience in varied settings, including outpatient nutrition counseling, nutrition health coaching/private practice, research, and corporate health. Gina’s passion is counseling pediatric and adolescent patients and their families, however, she also enjoys and has experience working with adults and seniors. She loves to wear many hats and utilizes her creativity in the field as she has presented on various nutrition topics for colleagues, communities, and corporations. She enjoys writing and upheld a nutrition column in Silent Sports Magazine while residing in Chicago.
Gina Gilchrist is a Registered Dietitian with 24 years of experience in varied settings, including outpatient nutrition counseling, nutrition health coaching/private practice, research, and corporate health. Gina’s passion is counseling pediatric and adolescent patients and their families, however, she also enjoys and has experience working with adults and seniors. She loves to wear many hats and utilizes her creativity in the field as she has presented on various nutrition topics for colleagues, communities, and corporations. She enjoys writing and upheld a nutrition column in Silent Sports Magazine while residing in Chicago.
(704) 327-0257 View (704) 327-0257
Photo of Mandy Huffman Nix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Mandy Huffman Nix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Morganton, NC 28655
Healing Nutrition provides a positive and sustainable relationship with food and your body. Whether you are seeking weight management, blood sugar control, discovering the root cause of GI distress, addressing food sensitivities, or meal planning, my passion is helping you achieve your wellness goals and to feel your best.
Healing Nutrition provides a positive and sustainable relationship with food and your body. Whether you are seeking weight management, blood sugar control, discovering the root cause of GI distress, addressing food sensitivities, or meal planning, my passion is helping you achieve your wellness goals and to feel your best.
(828) 439-0724 View (828) 439-0724
Photo of Rhya Pachin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT
Rhya Pachin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT
Online Only
My specialties and nutritional counseling interests include: infertility/pregnancy nutrition, eczema, IBS/IBD, autoimmune disease (Hashimoto's, RA, colitis), and food sensitivities/intolerances.
Looking for relief from chronic health conditions and a deeper level of nutritional support? Struggling to get answers? My focus is to identify and address the root cause of symptoms in order to help you achieve optimal health.
My specialties and nutritional counseling interests include: infertility/pregnancy nutrition, eczema, IBS/IBD, autoimmune disease (Hashimoto's, RA, colitis), and food sensitivities/intolerances.
Looking for relief from chronic health conditions and a deeper level of nutritional support? Struggling to get answers? My focus is to identify and address the root cause of symptoms in order to help you achieve optimal health.
(704) 761-7796 View (704) 761-7796
Photo of Amanda Averett, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Amanda Averett
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Amanda (she/her), one of the registered dietitians at Redefined Nutrition. I specialize in helping individuals with ADHD/Autism navigate the challenges they face with eating and nourishing their bodies, as it can often feel like one more thing to juggle. Distractions, sensory sensitivities, and inconsistent eating habits make things like meal planning and staying on track feel like a constant struggle. As a neurodivergent dietitian, I understand these challenges firsthand. Managing nutrition isn’t just about food—it’s about understanding how your unique brain works and finding ways to make eating less overwhelming.
Welcome! I’m Amanda (she/her), one of the registered dietitians at Redefined Nutrition. I specialize in helping individuals with ADHD/Autism navigate the challenges they face with eating and nourishing their bodies, as it can often feel like one more thing to juggle. Distractions, sensory sensitivities, and inconsistent eating habits make things like meal planning and staying on track feel like a constant struggle. As a neurodivergent dietitian, I understand these challenges firsthand. Managing nutrition isn’t just about food—it’s about understanding how your unique brain works and finding ways to make eating less overwhelming.
(980) 370-2839 View (980) 370-2839
Photo of Kelly Diamond, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Kelly Diamond
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28277
Are you tired of trying different diets in hopes it will help you reach your goals? Staying in the same cycle only to have an outcome of defeat? My approach is to get you out of that comfort zone and coach you to a healthier lifestyle with no pills, no shakes, and focus on FOOD first. I can test your metabolism with science based technology and customize a nutrition plan that will fit YOUR lifestyle and won't defeat you! I invite you to a NEW health journey, whether weight loss or nutritional/clinical needs, WE will meet your GOALS!
Are you tired of trying different diets in hopes it will help you reach your goals? Staying in the same cycle only to have an outcome of defeat? My approach is to get you out of that comfort zone and coach you to a healthier lifestyle with no pills, no shakes, and focus on FOOD first. I can test your metabolism with science based technology and customize a nutrition plan that will fit YOUR lifestyle and won't defeat you! I invite you to a NEW health journey, whether weight loss or nutritional/clinical needs, WE will meet your GOALS!
(617) 855-6890 View (617) 855-6890
Photo of Courtney Walker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Courtney Walker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
If you are struggling to develop a peaceful relationship with food, know that you are not alone. Confusing messages telling us how to eat, what to eat, and when to eat can make us wonder why eating has gotten so complicated. The short answer: it doesn't have to be. Whether you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, suffer from disordered eating, or just want to know how to nourish your body without going on another diet, I can help.
If you are struggling to develop a peaceful relationship with food, know that you are not alone. Confusing messages telling us how to eat, what to eat, and when to eat can make us wonder why eating has gotten so complicated. The short answer: it doesn't have to be. Whether you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, suffer from disordered eating, or just want to know how to nourish your body without going on another diet, I can help.
(704) 741-0356 View (704) 741-0356
Photo of Allie Richardson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Allie Richardson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28210
Do you or a family member have stress or anxiety around food, eating or body image? Do you notice yourself feeling anxious about what may be served for dinner? Do you ever feel discouraged because the last diet you tried "didn't work"? If you are a person that struggles with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, body image dissatisfaction, over/under eating, or emotional eating, I am here to help and you are not alone in this journey. I believe you can love your body and food simultaneously. It is possible for you to have a healthy relationship with food and your body so you can enjoy your life again.
Do you or a family member have stress or anxiety around food, eating or body image? Do you notice yourself feeling anxious about what may be served for dinner? Do you ever feel discouraged because the last diet you tried "didn't work"? If you are a person that struggles with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, body image dissatisfaction, over/under eating, or emotional eating, I am here to help and you are not alone in this journey. I believe you can love your body and food simultaneously. It is possible for you to have a healthy relationship with food and your body so you can enjoy your life again.
(406) 770-2158 View (406) 770-2158
Photo of Riley Maloney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Riley Maloney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
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 Kendra Leanne Gaffney - Nutritious Thoughts, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Nutritious Thoughts, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Asheville, NC 28801
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in North Carolina and virtually across the nation! We practice under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in North Carolina and virtually across the nation! We practice under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
(828) 348-5822 View (828) 348-5822
Photo of Yourfide Dietitian-Nutritionist Llc - YourFide Dietitian Nutritionist Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
YourFide Dietitian Nutritionist Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
Services we offer: Individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy and Counseling for: Heart disease/ Kidney disease/pre diabetes- Diabetes/ high cholesterol/Crohn/ PCOS/ Gout/ Autoimmune-diseases/ Liver-Disease/ Cancers/ High Blood Pressure/ Eating-Disorder (Anorexia/Bulimia)/ Gastrointestinal-diseases /Lupus/ Weight-management- Obesity/ Irritable Bowel Syndrome /
Insurance Accepted: Ready to reverse abnormal blood test results? Want to see improvement in your health and prevent complications? Need a chronic disease functional medicine practitioner ? We provide whole-body assessments, functional and integrative medicine services, order blood test, and then create a personalized nutrition plan to help your body heal naturally. Schedule to see our holistic board certified dietitian. Meet with our holistic certified dietitian in-office or via Tele-health( online). We’re in-network with all major health insurances plans… doctors can fax referral to:470-239-1564
Services we offer: Individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy and Counseling for: Heart disease/ Kidney disease/pre diabetes- Diabetes/ high cholesterol/Crohn/ PCOS/ Gout/ Autoimmune-diseases/ Liver-Disease/ Cancers/ High Blood Pressure/ Eating-Disorder (Anorexia/Bulimia)/ Gastrointestinal-diseases /Lupus/ Weight-management- Obesity/ Irritable Bowel Syndrome /
Insurance Accepted: Ready to reverse abnormal blood test results? Want to see improvement in your health and prevent complications? Need a chronic disease functional medicine practitioner ? We provide whole-body assessments, functional and integrative medicine services, order blood test, and then create a personalized nutrition plan to help your body heal naturally. Schedule to see our holistic board certified dietitian. Meet with our holistic certified dietitian in-office or via Tele-health( online). We’re in-network with all major health insurances plans… doctors can fax referral to:470-239-1564
(678) 974-0659 View (678) 974-0659
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.