IBS stands for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and it is quite a common disorder that affects the large intestine. The major symptoms of IBS are fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, stomach cramps, gas, and bloating. Severe signs are not seen in many patients. With changes in lifestyle and a regulated diet, one can moderate and/or control the symptoms of IBS. Additionally, with counseling, proper treatment, and consuming suitable foods for IBS, the condition can be managed.

Patients with this medical condition should change their food habits and the mode of cooking as well. They should eat more suitable foods for IBS like baked, grilled, or boiled food. Also, they should consider eating much more home-cooked meals rather than processed foods. Diet matters a lot in dealing with IBS symptoms.

Here are some foods that should be avoided if a person is suffering from IBS:

1. Gluten
Individuals who are prone to IBS should avoid eating foods containing gluten.

2. Dairy
Many IBS patients are lactose intolerant or sensitive to it, so they should avoid consuming dairy products. Also, such products contain fat, which cause diarrhea. A patient with IBS needs to shift to either low-fat or non-fat dairy products to deal with the syndrome better.

3. Fried foods
Fried foods like French fries are not good for IBS patients and should be avoided. Regularly eating fried foods should be avoided, along with the consumption of a large quantity.

4. Alcohol
Wine has sugar, beer has gluten, and alcohol as a whole tends to dehydrate the body, so it should be avoided.

5. Chocolate
Eating chocolate in a large amount and its regular consumption causes constipation in certain individuals with IBS. Chocolates also have caffeine and high levels of sugar, which are not good for IBS patients, so they should be eaten only in moderation.

6. Processed foods
Processed foods like frozen meals should be avoided by a person suffering from IBS as they are high in fat. Such foods also contain preservatives and additives that heighten IBS symptoms.

7. Caffeine
Coffee, carbonated drinks, and energy drinks contain caffeine and increase the symptoms of IBS, causing more discomfort and pain.

8. Legumes and beans
Legumes like peas and beans should be avoided even though they are sources of high fiber and protein. Consuming them brings in the possibility of gas, and severe bloating and cramps.

9. Insoluble fiber
Whole grains contain insoluble fiber that is known to worsen diarrhea for some IBS patients. Consume foods containing soluble fiber instead, like root vegetables, grains, fruits, and legumes.

10. Onion and garlic
These two food items are not good as they are difficult to be broken down in the intestines, causing gas and elevating other symptoms of IBS.

11. Cauliflower and broccoli
These food items are difficult to digest and cause gas and constipation.

12. Pizza
Although a full meal for some, it should be avoided as it worsens the symptoms of IBS.