Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Seattle, WA

Photo of Sofia Colantuono, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Sofia Colantuono
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
Sofia is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormonal Imbalances (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Sofia specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition. She also works with clients interested in Heart Health, Body Image concerns, vegan/vegetarian diets, and others areas.
Sofia is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormonal Imbalances (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Sofia specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive issues ( IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), and interested in Sports Nutrition. She also works with clients interested in Heart Health, Body Image concerns, vegan/vegetarian diets, and others areas.
(206) 590-4794 View (206) 590-4794
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
Serves Area
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 Lindsay L Henley - Lindsay Henley LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Lindsay Henley LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Serves Area
I am passionate about gut health ( IBS/SIBO specifically), yoga, and coaching people who are suffering from abdominal pain, bloating, altered bowel habits, and chronic stress to help implement practical solutions to their health problems, so they can make confident food choices, experience increased energy levels, and reduce IBS-related symptoms.
The 3 month low FODMAP nutrition program integrates diet, exercise, mindfulness activities, yoga, stress and anxiety reduction techniques, supplements, gut supporting foods, and more! This program provides a well-rounded and practical lifestyle approach for managing IBS.
I am passionate about gut health ( IBS/SIBO specifically), yoga, and coaching people who are suffering from abdominal pain, bloating, altered bowel habits, and chronic stress to help implement practical solutions to their health problems, so they can make confident food choices, experience increased energy levels, and reduce IBS-related symptoms.
The 3 month low FODMAP nutrition program integrates diet, exercise, mindfulness activities, yoga, stress and anxiety reduction techniques, supplements, gut supporting foods, and more! This program provides a well-rounded and practical lifestyle approach for managing IBS.
(509) 390-2282 View (509) 390-2282
Photo of Danielle Miyazaki, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Danielle Miyazaki
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Serves Area
' Specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, disordered eating, gastrointestinal disorders, IBS, intuitive eating, and somatic nutrition.
Peace with food and body is within your reach! Call or Text Danielle Miyazaki now - 425-818-2369
' Specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, disordered eating, gastrointestinal disorders, IBS, intuitive eating, and somatic nutrition.
Peace with food and body is within your reach! Call or Text Danielle Miyazaki now - 425-818-2369
(425) 320-4994 View (425) 320-4994
Photo of Diane Renee Javelli - Diane Javelli Nutrition, LLC - 'Belly by Javelli', Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Diane Javelli Nutrition, LLC - 'Belly by Javelli'
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Serves Area
Food shouldn't hurt! If you struggle with digestive issues like IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Celiac, food allergies or others and are afraid to eat because food hurts, I understand the struggle and can partner with you to find the best diet to help you feel better. For over 20 years I have worked in the field of digestive nutrition with gastroenterologists and gastric surgeons from around the Puget Sound area. I am passionate about helping patients find relief from symptoms with diet and lifestyle changes.
Food shouldn't hurt! If you struggle with digestive issues like IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Celiac, food allergies or others and are afraid to eat because food hurts, I understand the struggle and can partner with you to find the best diet to help you feel better. For over 20 years I have worked in the field of digestive nutrition with gastroenterologists and gastric surgeons from around the Puget Sound area. I am passionate about helping patients find relief from symptoms with diet and lifestyle changes.
(253) 319-3963 View (253) 319-3963
Photo of Johanna Richter, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Johanna Richter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
I work with people to improve their relationships with food, especially when complicated by medical conditions, such as digestive conditions (SIBO, IBS, Celiac, IBD, Fatty Liver), hormonal issues (PCOS, PMDD), insulin resistance (Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes), behavioral health conditions, genetic risk, chronic illness, and rare diseases.
Having trouble coping with food, nutrition, and your health, especially with the recent stress of COVID-19? Many people are experiencing stress-related changes in emotions, eating behaviors, and physical symptoms, including digestive issues. Whether these experiences are new to you or related to something you dealt with in the past, I’m here to help.
I work with people to improve their relationships with food, especially when complicated by medical conditions, such as digestive conditions (SIBO, IBS, Celiac, IBD, Fatty Liver), hormonal issues (PCOS, PMDD), insulin resistance (Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes), behavioral health conditions, genetic risk, chronic illness, and rare diseases.
Having trouble coping with food, nutrition, and your health, especially with the recent stress of COVID-19? Many people are experiencing stress-related changes in emotions, eating behaviors, and physical symptoms, including digestive issues. Whether these experiences are new to you or related to something you dealt with in the past, I’m here to help.
(206) 785-3724 View (206) 785-3724
Photo of Sarah Lawson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Sarah Lawson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Additionally, I can help you manage health-conditions including IBS, PCOS, Hashimoto's, and Diabetes using realistic interventions custom fit to your needs.
I help individuals overcome food anxiety, end chronic dieting, and create a balanced approach for eating and movement. We will work together to develop realistic changes that honors the uniqueness of you. I approach sessions with kindness and humor, understanding that challenging work feels less challenging when you have someone to laugh with.
Additionally, I can help you manage health-conditions including IBS, PCOS, Hashimoto's, and Diabetes using realistic interventions custom fit to your needs.
I help individuals overcome food anxiety, end chronic dieting, and create a balanced approach for eating and movement. We will work together to develop realistic changes that honors the uniqueness of you. I approach sessions with kindness and humor, understanding that challenging work feels less challenging when you have someone to laugh with.
(206) 558-0645 View (206) 558-0645
Photo of Roja Babaei, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CNS, CN, LDN
Roja Babaei
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CNS, CN, LDN
Online Only
I am currently taking a Gastroenterology course to help clients with in-depth issues such as eating disorder such as binge eating, anorexia, irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS), and Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD)
Hi, I’m Roja Babaei, Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS), Certified Nutritionist (CN), Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), a founder of Roja Nutritionist LLC, a health enthusiast and a graduate with a Master of Nutrition and Integrative Health graduate from Maryland University of Integrative Health. I already have over three years of experience. I have completed my post graduate practice experience and earned my CNS credential. In my clinical practice, I engage with clients suffering from many different diseases and I helped them change their nutrition habits to achieve their optimal health.
I am currently taking a Gastroenterology course to help clients with in-depth issues such as eating disorder such as binge eating, anorexia, irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS), and Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD)
Hi, I’m Roja Babaei, Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS), Certified Nutritionist (CN), Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), a founder of Roja Nutritionist LLC, a health enthusiast and a graduate with a Master of Nutrition and Integrative Health graduate from Maryland University of Integrative Health. I already have over three years of experience. I have completed my post graduate practice experience and earned my CNS credential. In my clinical practice, I engage with clients suffering from many different diseases and I helped them change their nutrition habits to achieve their optimal health.
(206) 495-4785 View (206) 495-4785
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 Jacklyn Jensen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Jacklyn Jensen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Serves Area
I specialize in eating disorders, disordered eating (binge eating, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, & OSFED), chronic dieting, and GI concerns (specifically IBS & SIBO) using a Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating approach.
It takes courage to seek out help when food has become overwhelming and lost its joy. Whether you have a lot of unanswered questions about food or feel stuck with food, you've come to the right place. Each client has different experiences around food and our time together will reflect working on goals to meet you where you're at.
I specialize in eating disorders, disordered eating (binge eating, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, & OSFED), chronic dieting, and GI concerns (specifically IBS & SIBO) using a Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating approach.
It takes courage to seek out help when food has become overwhelming and lost its joy. Whether you have a lot of unanswered questions about food or feel stuck with food, you've come to the right place. Each client has different experiences around food and our time together will reflect working on goals to meet you where you're at.
(206) 681-2943 View (206) 681-2943
Photo of Sarah Ervin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Sarah Ervin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Online Only
I specialize in helping individuals manage PCOS, diabetes, IBS/SIBO, and autoimmune conditions through personalized, whole-body nutrition counseling.
Are you ready to take control of your health and feel your best? If you're dealing with challenges like PCOS, high cholesterol, hypertension, or other concerns, I'm here to help. Together, we’ll create a personalized nutrition plan that fits your lifestyle and long-term goals. I’ll provide culturally sensitive, whole-body care to guide you toward sustainable habits, improved energy, and better overall health. With virtual, insurance-covered sessions, you’ll have the support and clarity you need to thrive. Let’s work together to help you feel confident and in control of your health!
I specialize in helping individuals manage PCOS, diabetes, IBS/SIBO, and autoimmune conditions through personalized, whole-body nutrition counseling.
Are you ready to take control of your health and feel your best? If you're dealing with challenges like PCOS, high cholesterol, hypertension, or other concerns, I'm here to help. Together, we’ll create a personalized nutrition plan that fits your lifestyle and long-term goals. I’ll provide culturally sensitive, whole-body care to guide you toward sustainable habits, improved energy, and better overall health. With virtual, insurance-covered sessions, you’ll have the support and clarity you need to thrive. Let’s work together to help you feel confident and in control of your health!
(425) 534-7581 View (425) 534-7581
Photo of Margaret Mills, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
Margaret Mills
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I love working with clients who are looking ditch diet culture, to redefine what "health" means to them, and to improve their relationship to food and body. But sometimes, the journey toward body acceptance and intuitive eating is complicated. Complex medical issues like autoimmune conditions, food allergies/intolerances, and disordered eating patterns can disrupt the relationship we have to our bodies. Most of my clients are sitting at this intersection, ready to explore a new framework and rebuild trust in their bodies.
I love working with clients who are looking ditch diet culture, to redefine what "health" means to them, and to improve their relationship to food and body. But sometimes, the journey toward body acceptance and intuitive eating is complicated. Complex medical issues like autoimmune conditions, food allergies/intolerances, and disordered eating patterns can disrupt the relationship we have to our bodies. Most of my clients are sitting at this intersection, ready to explore a new framework and rebuild trust in their bodies.
(253) 246-1024 View (253) 246-1024
Photo of Rebecca Rich - Enriched Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS
Enriched Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS
Online Only
If you’ve been struggling with bloating, gas, constipation, fatigue, mood swings or restrictive diets and feel like nothing has helped, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to me after years of frustration, trying to manage chronic digestive issues, hormone imbalances, autoimmune conditions, or food intolerances—only to be met with quick fixes that don’t last. You deserve real answers and a sustainable approach to feeling better. Together, we’ll work to uncover the root cause of your symptoms and create a science-backed plan that supports your gut, balances your hormones, and helps you truly nourish your body.
If you’ve been struggling with bloating, gas, constipation, fatigue, mood swings or restrictive diets and feel like nothing has helped, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to me after years of frustration, trying to manage chronic digestive issues, hormone imbalances, autoimmune conditions, or food intolerances—only to be met with quick fixes that don’t last. You deserve real answers and a sustainable approach to feeling better. Together, we’ll work to uncover the root cause of your symptoms and create a science-backed plan that supports your gut, balances your hormones, and helps you truly nourish your body.
(503) 782-9614 View (503) 782-9614
Photo of Ryann Hilton - NourishRX Nutrition Counseling , Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
NourishRX Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety around meals, guilt after eating, or physical issues like digestive problems or hormonal imbalances? Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of dieting, restriction, or binging with no end in sight? Maybe you’re watching your child struggle with body image or refusing to eat, leaving you feeling worried and helpless. We understand that healing from an eating disorder isn’t just about food—it’s about rebuilding trust with your body and mind. Our personalized, non-judgmental approach helps you develop healthy habits. Our dietitians are here to guide you in reclaiming your health and finding long-term balance.
Are you struggling with anxiety around meals, guilt after eating, or physical issues like digestive problems or hormonal imbalances? Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of dieting, restriction, or binging with no end in sight? Maybe you’re watching your child struggle with body image or refusing to eat, leaving you feeling worried and helpless. We understand that healing from an eating disorder isn’t just about food—it’s about rebuilding trust with your body and mind. Our personalized, non-judgmental approach helps you develop healthy habits. Our dietitians are here to guide you in reclaiming your health and finding long-term balance.
(206) 210-7999 View (206) 210-7999
Photo of Crystal Franck, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Crystal Franck
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you fed-up with the rollercoaster of dieting? Overwhelmed by conflicting diet advice? Are thoughts about food and body claiming too much of your headspace? How would it feel to NOT spend so much time and effort analyzing and second guessing your food choices? You are not alone and you don't have to figure this all out by yourself! Many of us are taught messages about food and health as far back as we can remember, and all of these “rules” can feel overwhelming. I'll help you sort through the noise and find ways to nourish your body in a way that makes sense for you and your goals.
Are you fed-up with the rollercoaster of dieting? Overwhelmed by conflicting diet advice? Are thoughts about food and body claiming too much of your headspace? How would it feel to NOT spend so much time and effort analyzing and second guessing your food choices? You are not alone and you don't have to figure this all out by yourself! Many of us are taught messages about food and health as far back as we can remember, and all of these “rules” can feel overwhelming. I'll help you sort through the noise and find ways to nourish your body in a way that makes sense for you and your goals.
(206) 279-9984 View (206) 279-9984
Photo of Reiko Sudduth - Reiko Sudduth | Rocket Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Reiko Sudduth | Rocket Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Seattle, WA 98115
Are you ready to make a change to improve your health? Do you have questions or concerns regarding nutrition for you or your family? Whether you are looking to prevent a health condition, to heal from a condition or simply to reduce your symptoms, your approach to eating and taking care of yourself can have a profound effect on your health. We can work together to bring clarity and create the best plan to meet your health goals. I provide individualized nutritional counseling to people of all ages to help establish diet and lifestyle habits that serve their unique needs.
Are you ready to make a change to improve your health? Do you have questions or concerns regarding nutrition for you or your family? Whether you are looking to prevent a health condition, to heal from a condition or simply to reduce your symptoms, your approach to eating and taking care of yourself can have a profound effect on your health. We can work together to bring clarity and create the best plan to meet your health goals. I provide individualized nutritional counseling to people of all ages to help establish diet and lifestyle habits that serve their unique needs.
(774) 234-8318 View (774) 234-8318
Photo of Nicole Thelan - Experience Momentum , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Experience Momentum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Seattle, WA 98103
As weight-neutral providers, we understand that food is social, emotional, and cultural. One way of eating doesn’t fit all, and knowing which foods optimally fuel your body is complex. Our goal is to empower you with nutritional education, support, and strategy so you can live the life you choose.
As weight-neutral providers, we understand that food is social, emotional, and cultural. One way of eating doesn’t fit all, and knowing which foods optimally fuel your body is complex. Our goal is to empower you with nutritional education, support, and strategy so you can live the life you choose.
(206) 278-1909 View (206) 278-1909
Photo of Amanda Cirie, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
Amanda Cirie
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
Seattle, WA 98107
It is my passion and purpose to empower people to create and maintain a healthy lifestyle through nutrition, stress management, movement, and healthy relationships. I believe that everyone is unique in their approach to nutrition and I offer my clients the right tools, knowledge and strategies to help them overcome obstacles and regain their health. As as seasoned nutritionist I have worked with a wide range of people from executives and parents to athletes and performing artists, and anyone who loves to eat and wants to learn. My whole foods therapeutic approach and targeted supplemental use are the key to my practice.
It is my passion and purpose to empower people to create and maintain a healthy lifestyle through nutrition, stress management, movement, and healthy relationships. I believe that everyone is unique in their approach to nutrition and I offer my clients the right tools, knowledge and strategies to help them overcome obstacles and regain their health. As as seasoned nutritionist I have worked with a wide range of people from executives and parents to athletes and performing artists, and anyone who loves to eat and wants to learn. My whole foods therapeutic approach and targeted supplemental use are the key to my practice.
(206) 312-5165 View (206) 312-5165
Photo of Dandelion Nutrition - Dandelion Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS, CDCES, CLT
Dandelion Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS, CDCES, CLT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our team is on a mission to help you dig up the roots of your health ​concerns to optimize your ​wellbeing and get you feeling your best. As Registered Dietitian Nutritionists with decades in the field and personal experience overcoming nutrition challenges, we​ can help you​ make lasting change. We take evidence-based principles and package them up into practical every-day strategies that you can actually do.​ We have a nutritionist to help with just about any nutrition-related need... use our "Find a Dietitian" tool to find who is best for you!
Our team is on a mission to help you dig up the roots of your health ​concerns to optimize your ​wellbeing and get you feeling your best. As Registered Dietitian Nutritionists with decades in the field and personal experience overcoming nutrition challenges, we​ can help you​ make lasting change. We take evidence-based principles and package them up into practical every-day strategies that you can actually do.​ We have a nutritionist to help with just about any nutrition-related need... use our "Find a Dietitian" tool to find who is best for you!
(206) 905-4812 View (206) 905-4812
Photo of Gretchen Gruender, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSO
Gretchen Gruender
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSO
Seattle, WA 98103
Are you ready to make positive changes to your diet but dealing with the effects of a chronic illness or cancer treatment? Find your path to a diet that tastes delicious to you while serving and supporting your unique needs and palate. I support people who are in cancer treatment, cancer survivors, or have diabetes/pre-diabetes, osteoporosis, hyperlipidemia, digestive issues, autoimmune diseases, and other side effects of cancer treatment.
Are you ready to make positive changes to your diet but dealing with the effects of a chronic illness or cancer treatment? Find your path to a diet that tastes delicious to you while serving and supporting your unique needs and palate. I support people who are in cancer treatment, cancer survivors, or have diabetes/pre-diabetes, osteoporosis, hyperlipidemia, digestive issues, autoimmune diseases, and other side effects of cancer treatment.
(206) 222-4406 View (206) 222-4406
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.