Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Randolph, NJ

Photo of Lori R Lee, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN, CPT, CLT
Lori R Lee
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN, CPT, CLT
Verified Verified
Serves Area
MRT: the most accurate test for conditions with inflammation, allergies, eczema, GI issues, Crohn's, colitis, IBS, etc.
LORI R. LEE, MA, RD, CPT, CLT, Founder/Executive Director of The Wellness Center of Northwest Jersey provides medical nutrition therapy services utilizing advanced integrative and functional medicine protocols for over 33 years. Her expertise includes treating patients with all health conditions, such as diabetes, cardiac, allergies, autoimmune disorders, cancer and weight management. As a Certified LEAP Therapist (CLT), Lori specializes in Mediator Release Testing which measures food and chemical sensitivities with targeted therapy achieving maximum outcomes effectively and with 95 % accuracy. Lori is a 2025 doctoral candidate.
MRT: the most accurate test for conditions with inflammation, allergies, eczema, GI issues, Crohn's, colitis, IBS, etc.
LORI R. LEE, MA, RD, CPT, CLT, Founder/Executive Director of The Wellness Center of Northwest Jersey provides medical nutrition therapy services utilizing advanced integrative and functional medicine protocols for over 33 years. Her expertise includes treating patients with all health conditions, such as diabetes, cardiac, allergies, autoimmune disorders, cancer and weight management. As a Certified LEAP Therapist (CLT), Lori specializes in Mediator Release Testing which measures food and chemical sensitivities with targeted therapy achieving maximum outcomes effectively and with 95 % accuracy. Lori is a 2025 doctoral candidate.
(973) 671-1202 View (973) 671-1202
Photo of Lorri B Katz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN
Lorri B Katz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a seasoned Registered Dietitian Nutritionist dedicated to partnering with patients collaboratively to achieve their nutrition and health goals. Over the past 40 plus years, I have worked in healthcare settings ranging from wellness centers in integrative and functional nutrition to hospital and medical offices.
I am a seasoned Registered Dietitian Nutritionist dedicated to partnering with patients collaboratively to achieve their nutrition and health goals. Over the past 40 plus years, I have worked in healthcare settings ranging from wellness centers in integrative and functional nutrition to hospital and medical offices.
(973) 358-6290 View (973) 358-6290
Photo of Lexie D'Adamo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Lexie D'Adamo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to nutrition counseling is centered around building trust and understanding of each client’s unique needs, ensuring you receive the best care possible in your path towards recovery. In my practice, I work with individuals who are looking to heal their relationship with food and body image, have struggled with chronic dieting and the effects harmful diet culture messaging, and those in recovery from an eating disorder. When working with me, you can expect a judgement-free, empathetic, and safe space to receive support.
My approach to nutrition counseling is centered around building trust and understanding of each client’s unique needs, ensuring you receive the best care possible in your path towards recovery. In my practice, I work with individuals who are looking to heal their relationship with food and body image, have struggled with chronic dieting and the effects harmful diet culture messaging, and those in recovery from an eating disorder. When working with me, you can expect a judgement-free, empathetic, and safe space to receive support.
(862) 362-1602 View (862) 362-1602
Photo of Alexa Schneider, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPS, RDN
Alexa Schneider
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPS, RDN
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
Hi there! I'm Alexa Schneider, owner of Be Well Nutrition Counseling. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I am passionate about helping people navigate their nutrition journey with evidence-based medical nutrition therapy.
Hi there! I'm Alexa Schneider, owner of Be Well Nutrition Counseling. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I am passionate about helping people navigate their nutrition journey with evidence-based medical nutrition therapy.
(862) 366-4601 View (862) 366-4601
Photo of Dan Wernikoff - Champion Athletes Sports Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MICP, CSN
Champion Athletes Sports Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MICP, CSN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Champion Athletes Sports Nutrition programs are some of the most successful programs in the country. Clients from all over the country have been coming to our offices or using our online program to help them achieve their goals. We offer a holistic and fully customized approach taking into consideration our clients food preferences, training habits, sport, position, body composition and level of physical and mental development.. Every one of our clients receives a personal evaluation and 24/7 support and coaching. Unlike most practices which cater to adult clients.
Champion Athletes Sports Nutrition programs are some of the most successful programs in the country. Clients from all over the country have been coming to our offices or using our online program to help them achieve their goals. We offer a holistic and fully customized approach taking into consideration our clients food preferences, training habits, sport, position, body composition and level of physical and mental development.. Every one of our clients receives a personal evaluation and 24/7 support and coaching. Unlike most practices which cater to adult clients.
(855) 705-4735 View (855) 705-4735
Photo of Debbie Weinstein, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CNS, MS, HHC
Debbie Weinstein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CNS, MS, HHC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Nutrition is powerful. It can have a positive or a negative impact on your health. Together, as a team we will develop a plan to get you eating the foods that will make you feel better (or even great). To harness the power of nutrition, we work to understand what foods are right for you. Good nutrition is not only about elimination but often about education. Many chronic diseases; diabetes, hypertension, obesity, autoimmune diseases, leaky gut, digestive and weight issues can be conquered or mitigated by your food choices. The changes you see while still enjoying delicious foods will amaze you.
Nutrition is powerful. It can have a positive or a negative impact on your health. Together, as a team we will develop a plan to get you eating the foods that will make you feel better (or even great). To harness the power of nutrition, we work to understand what foods are right for you. Good nutrition is not only about elimination but often about education. Many chronic diseases; diabetes, hypertension, obesity, autoimmune diseases, leaky gut, digestive and weight issues can be conquered or mitigated by your food choices. The changes you see while still enjoying delicious foods will amaze you.
(973) 380-0116 View (973) 380-0116
Photo of Sara Rivera - Whole Nutrition Center, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Whole Nutrition Center
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you tired of feeling like you don’t have enough energy to support your busy life? Do you constantly feel bloated or that your body does not look and feel the way it used to? Are you frustrated and overwhelmed by all the misinformation constantly floating around the Internet about nutrition? Are you sick of fad diets or counting calories? Do you have a chronic illness that’s leaving you confused about the best food to fuel your body with? Are you fed up with putting a bandaid over your issues and you are now ready to get to the root cause?
Are you tired of feeling like you don’t have enough energy to support your busy life? Do you constantly feel bloated or that your body does not look and feel the way it used to? Are you frustrated and overwhelmed by all the misinformation constantly floating around the Internet about nutrition? Are you sick of fad diets or counting calories? Do you have a chronic illness that’s leaving you confused about the best food to fuel your body with? Are you fed up with putting a bandaid over your issues and you are now ready to get to the root cause?
(973) 221-8545 View (973) 221-8545
Photo of Morgan Siniawa (Caldwell), Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Morgan Siniawa (Caldwell)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
If eating is something that is supposed to come naturally, then why is it so overwhelming? In the year 2024, we are constantly bombarded with information about what to eat, how to eat it, what diet to be on, and how to look. Even worse, this information isn't tailored to your unique needs, but rather, it is based on trendy new products and gimmicks. The mass amount of incorrect information creates confusion, and before you know it you're unsure of how to feed your body and you're starting to feel insecure about what you see in the mirror.
If eating is something that is supposed to come naturally, then why is it so overwhelming? In the year 2024, we are constantly bombarded with information about what to eat, how to eat it, what diet to be on, and how to look. Even worse, this information isn't tailored to your unique needs, but rather, it is based on trendy new products and gimmicks. The mass amount of incorrect information creates confusion, and before you know it you're unsure of how to feed your body and you're starting to feel insecure about what you see in the mirror.
(973) 240-5287 View (973) 240-5287

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Devine - Devine Nutrition and Wellness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Devine Nutrition and Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Stephanie can guide you with including foods that will reduce your IBS or other digestive symptoms.
Are you tired of feeling bloating, gassy, constipated or in pain. This doesn't have to be the case. Do you want to be comfortable going out in public without experiencing embarrasing digestive symptoms? Learn how to find the foods that may or may not work best for you.
Stephanie can guide you with including foods that will reduce your IBS or other digestive symptoms.
Are you tired of feeling bloating, gassy, constipated or in pain. This doesn't have to be the case. Do you want to be comfortable going out in public without experiencing embarrasing digestive symptoms? Learn how to find the foods that may or may not work best for you.
(609) 375-1361 View (609) 375-1361
Photo of Michele Goldfine, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Michele Goldfine
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Other areas of expertise include disease prevention/management (heart health, pre-diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, etc).
I'm a dietitian specializing in disordered eating, eating disorders, chronic dieting and intuitive eating. I provide a warm, open, and non-judgmental space to help you create a peaceful relationship with food, while developing a personalized and balanced approach to health and well-being that works for you. Do you feel preoccupied with thoughts about food and your weight, or perhaps you feel like you can’t be trusted to keep your favorite foods in your house? Maybe you feel anxiety around going out to eat with friends or that you feel stuck counting points/calories. If any of these resonate, I'd love to work with you!
Other areas of expertise include disease prevention/management (heart health, pre-diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, etc).
I'm a dietitian specializing in disordered eating, eating disorders, chronic dieting and intuitive eating. I provide a warm, open, and non-judgmental space to help you create a peaceful relationship with food, while developing a personalized and balanced approach to health and well-being that works for you. Do you feel preoccupied with thoughts about food and your weight, or perhaps you feel like you can’t be trusted to keep your favorite foods in your house? Maybe you feel anxiety around going out to eat with friends or that you feel stuck counting points/calories. If any of these resonate, I'd love to work with you!
(347) 252-9364 View (347) 252-9364
Photo of Stacy O'Brien, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT
Stacy O'Brien
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
IBS?
GI is my area of expertise! I have tips to help you to feel better while getting to the root of the problem so you can GET BETTER AND STAY BETTER. We'll look at diet, lifestyle factors, labs, all symptoms- i.e. you as a whole person. If indicated, we'll do stool or blood tests to look at your gut microbiome, food sensitivities, test for parasites, etc.
IBS?
GI is my area of expertise! I have tips to help you to feel better while getting to the root of the problem so you can GET BETTER AND STAY BETTER. We'll look at diet, lifestyle factors, labs, all symptoms- i.e. you as a whole person. If indicated, we'll do stool or blood tests to look at your gut microbiome, food sensitivities, test for parasites, etc.
(973) 840-8578 View (973) 840-8578
Photo of Colleen D Webb, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT
Colleen D Webb
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I specialize in providing current evidence and practice-based nutrition education to people with GI conditions, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, IBS, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), diverticulosis, constipation, diarrhea, and food sensitivities.
Eat well, feel well. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I help people with digestive issues figure out what foods make them feel their healthiest, strongest, and most energized so they can live life to its fullest. I work closely with my patients to identify and overcome barriers to healthy eating, and I personalize each visit to meet the individual needs and preferences of my clients. I love food and so I focus a lot on what to eat and how to make foods taste good.
I specialize in providing current evidence and practice-based nutrition education to people with GI conditions, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, IBS, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), diverticulosis, constipation, diarrhea, and food sensitivities.
Eat well, feel well. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I help people with digestive issues figure out what foods make them feel their healthiest, strongest, and most energized so they can live life to its fullest. I work closely with my patients to identify and overcome barriers to healthy eating, and I personalize each visit to meet the individual needs and preferences of my clients. I love food and so I focus a lot on what to eat and how to make foods taste good.
(646) 791-3597 View (646) 791-3597
Photo of Barbara Smith, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Barbara Smith
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
Does your history include chronic health conditions such as IBS, Fibromyalgia, Migraines, Rheumatoid Arthritis or eczema?
Barbara's approach is aligned with Integrative & Functional medicine therapies. Through laboratory testing, education, dietary manipulation and proper supplementation you will have improvement in your symptoms and be able to achieve quality of life again!
Does your history include chronic health conditions such as IBS, Fibromyalgia, Migraines, Rheumatoid Arthritis or eczema?
Barbara's approach is aligned with Integrative & Functional medicine therapies. Through laboratory testing, education, dietary manipulation and proper supplementation you will have improvement in your symptoms and be able to achieve quality of life again!
(908) 988-0438 View (908) 988-0438
Photo of Amanda Fano - TruRoots Nutrition LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
TruRoots Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
Montville, NJ 07045
We specialize in the following conditions, such as, Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease such as Crohn’s & Colitis (IBD), Gastroparesis Reflux (GERD) Diverticulitis, any other gut imbalances, weight management, diabetes and overall health.
As a dietitian with a functional/holistic background, I help my clients reach their goals by utilizing a whole food nutrition focus. I specialize in gut health conditions, weight management, diabetes, and optimizing your health. Let's work together to reach your health and wellness goals!
We specialize in the following conditions, such as, Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease such as Crohn’s & Colitis (IBD), Gastroparesis Reflux (GERD) Diverticulitis, any other gut imbalances, weight management, diabetes and overall health.
As a dietitian with a functional/holistic background, I help my clients reach their goals by utilizing a whole food nutrition focus. I specialize in gut health conditions, weight management, diabetes, and optimizing your health. Let's work together to reach your health and wellness goals!
(973) 604-8569 View (973) 604-8569
Photo of Tradena N Rayner - Weight Inclusive Dietitian, PC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Weight Inclusive Dietitian, PC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Gastrointestinal - IBS, SIBO, SIFO, Leaky Gut, Food Intolerances, GERD/Acid Reflux, Peptic Ulcer Disease, Idiopathic (bloating, gas, indigestion).
Tradena N. Rayner, MS, RDN, CDN is a seasoned expert in food service, nutrition, and wellness, with over a decade of experience in the industry. Holding advanced degrees in Health Sciences and Dietetics, she has a rich background working with diverse patient populations. Dena pioneered diabetes management programs and founded nutrition initiatives both in the U.S. and the U.K. Currently pursuing a PhD in Developmental Psychology, Dena is dedicated to serving underrepresented communities. She is also a published author and entrepreneur, passionate about body positivity and weight-inclusive care.
Gastrointestinal - IBS, SIBO, SIFO, Leaky Gut, Food Intolerances, GERD/Acid Reflux, Peptic Ulcer Disease, Idiopathic (bloating, gas, indigestion).
Tradena N. Rayner, MS, RDN, CDN is a seasoned expert in food service, nutrition, and wellness, with over a decade of experience in the industry. Holding advanced degrees in Health Sciences and Dietetics, she has a rich background working with diverse patient populations. Dena pioneered diabetes management programs and founded nutrition initiatives both in the U.S. and the U.K. Currently pursuing a PhD in Developmental Psychology, Dena is dedicated to serving underrepresented communities. She is also a published author and entrepreneur, passionate about body positivity and weight-inclusive care.
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Photo of Paige Needles, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Paige Needles
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07103
Specialties include digestive problems ( IBS, SIBO, IBD, food intolerances, reflux+), diabetes, PCOS, heart health, weight management and body composition, metabolic health, women’s hormonal health, and general health and wellness.
Paige is a registered dietitian who enjoys working with diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and digestive issues. She blends her experience in both the conventional and functional health settings to offer a truly integrative approach to nutrition counseling. Her commitment to ongoing education ensures that she remains at the forefront of the latest advancements in nutrition science, enabling her to provide evidence-based and personalized recommendations. She strongly believes that education is the key to meaningful behavior change, so she empowers her clients with the information they need to make informed decision.
Specialties include digestive problems ( IBS, SIBO, IBD, food intolerances, reflux+), diabetes, PCOS, heart health, weight management and body composition, metabolic health, women’s hormonal health, and general health and wellness.
Paige is a registered dietitian who enjoys working with diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and digestive issues. She blends her experience in both the conventional and functional health settings to offer a truly integrative approach to nutrition counseling. Her commitment to ongoing education ensures that she remains at the forefront of the latest advancements in nutrition science, enabling her to provide evidence-based and personalized recommendations. She strongly believes that education is the key to meaningful behavior change, so she empowers her clients with the information they need to make informed decision.
(848) 306-0658 View (848) 306-0658
Photo of Laurie Schlussel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MA
Laurie Schlussel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MA
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Nutrition counseling is available for: Cardiovascular disease,Diabetes ,Hypertension, Weight control for children, teens and adults ,General nutrition counseling ,Vegetarian concerns , Gastric bypass surgery evaluations, GI concerns: IBS,IBD, Celiac Disease, lactose/fructose intolerance
Are you confused about what to eat? Daily newspaper and radio nutrition stories are perplexing and numerous changes about food are enough to mystify anyone. I can guide you through the maze of confusion and offer help that will make sense of the ever changing world of nutrition, by providing sound practical nutrition advice. I am committed to provided excellent patient care .You will receive individualized advice to help you reach your goals.
Nutrition counseling is available for: Cardiovascular disease,Diabetes ,Hypertension, Weight control for children, teens and adults ,General nutrition counseling ,Vegetarian concerns , Gastric bypass surgery evaluations, GI concerns: IBS,IBD, Celiac Disease, lactose/fructose intolerance
Are you confused about what to eat? Daily newspaper and radio nutrition stories are perplexing and numerous changes about food are enough to mystify anyone. I can guide you through the maze of confusion and offer help that will make sense of the ever changing world of nutrition, by providing sound practical nutrition advice. I am committed to provided excellent patient care .You will receive individualized advice to help you reach your goals.
(201) 778-6607 View (201) 778-6607
Photo of Elysa Dinzes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPA, RD, CDN, CLT
Elysa Dinzes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPA, RD, CDN, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
Do you have a chronic health condition such as IBS, migraines, or other inflammatory disorders?
Are you struggling to navigate the confusing and toxic food environment in which we live? Do you feel bloated, tired, or struggle with your weight? We've all been there at some point in our lives and know how difficult it can be to get back on track. Whether you want to address a specific illness or symptom, or simply need a little kick-start, I will meet you wherever you are in your journey to good health. All appointments and plans are customized to your individual needs. Face to face and virtual appointments are available, so we can work together no matter where you live!
Do you have a chronic health condition such as IBS, migraines, or other inflammatory disorders?
Are you struggling to navigate the confusing and toxic food environment in which we live? Do you feel bloated, tired, or struggle with your weight? We've all been there at some point in our lives and know how difficult it can be to get back on track. Whether you want to address a specific illness or symptom, or simply need a little kick-start, I will meet you wherever you are in your journey to good health. All appointments and plans are customized to your individual needs. Face to face and virtual appointments are available, so we can work together no matter where you live!
(917) 837-0598 View (917) 837-0598
Photo of Alexis Michel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CLT
Alexis Michel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CLT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Specializing in weight loss, gut health, managing chronic conditions ( IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, PCOS, Hashimoto's, hypertension, diabetes, menopause/perimenopause).
To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art. I’m here to teach you the art. Ever wonder why people try dieting time after time, but can't find something that works for them? The issue is, they don't understand their body. I help you discover the best means to understand your body and provide it with the best personalized nourishment for enhanced well-being, increased vitality, and symptom relief. I get to know you so I can give you exactly what you need to be successful. I provide custom meal plans, grocery lists, hand-outs, recipe guides, & lab testing to get to the root cause of your health issues.
Specializing in weight loss, gut health, managing chronic conditions ( IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, PCOS, Hashimoto's, hypertension, diabetes, menopause/perimenopause).
To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art. I’m here to teach you the art. Ever wonder why people try dieting time after time, but can't find something that works for them? The issue is, they don't understand their body. I help you discover the best means to understand your body and provide it with the best personalized nourishment for enhanced well-being, increased vitality, and symptom relief. I get to know you so I can give you exactly what you need to be successful. I provide custom meal plans, grocery lists, hand-outs, recipe guides, & lab testing to get to the root cause of your health issues.
(908) 827-6596 View (908) 827-6596
Photo of Carly Leanza, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Carly Leanza
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Carly specializes in Adults, Adolescents, and Pediatrics with concerns related to Eating Disorders/Disordered Eating, Diabetes, Heart Health, GI Conditions ( IBS, IBD, etc.), Weight Management, General Healthy Eating, Plant Based Diets, and Pediatrics.
Carly is a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about helping people live their healthiest lives while fostering a positive relationship with food. She believes in taking a holistic approach to address the complex relationship between nutrition, mental health, and chronic conditions. Carly provides a HAES-aligned, non-diet approach for her nutrition counseling and interventions and collaborates with her clients to find a nutrition lifestyle that is realistic and sustainable. She loves structure and routine while also embracing creativity to meet each client where they are at.
Carly specializes in Adults, Adolescents, and Pediatrics with concerns related to Eating Disorders/Disordered Eating, Diabetes, Heart Health, GI Conditions ( IBS, IBD, etc.), Weight Management, General Healthy Eating, Plant Based Diets, and Pediatrics.
Carly is a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about helping people live their healthiest lives while fostering a positive relationship with food. She believes in taking a holistic approach to address the complex relationship between nutrition, mental health, and chronic conditions. Carly provides a HAES-aligned, non-diet approach for her nutrition counseling and interventions and collaborates with her clients to find a nutrition lifestyle that is realistic and sustainable. She loves structure and routine while also embracing creativity to meet each client where they are at.
(405) 267-4939 View (405) 267-4939

See more therapy options for Randolph

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.