Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Brand New To This: Severity Question

Bloating and gas are a common IBS symptom. An temporary increase can occur from the Align or even from an increase fiber intake. The berry burst metamucil has artificial sweetener and food coloring which for some can be a problem. It took me a long time to figure out that some artificial coloring and flavors where causing me problems. It is best to stick with supplements and foods that don't contain unnecessary added ingredients.

Presumably you bought the Quaker oats cinnamon swirl instant oat meal which has sucralose and guar gum to increase the soluble fiber. It might be best to stick with the plain oatmeal that has no added ingredients, however, it does take 15-20 minutes to cook. I have it every morning for breakfast.

Regarding candies you may want to makes sure the candies you buy don't contain artificial food coloring or sweeteners. Also, make sure they don't contain high fructose corn syrup or added fructose which can cause increase bloating, gas and D.

Low doses of antidepressant particularly tricyclic antidepressants such as nortriptyline have been used for some time to control IBS pain. The reference below has a good section (2.15) on the use of antidepressant use for IBS. It says "Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are more effective than placebo at relieving global IBS symptoms, and appear to reduce abdominal pain. There are limited data on the safety and tolerability of these agents in patients with IBS (Grade 1B)." The Grade 1B indicates that a strong recommendation (1) for their use with moderate (B) amount of research evidence to support the recommendation. I believe generally speaking these drugs only help with pain and not other IBS symptoms.

Reference
Brandt, L. J., W. D. Chey, et.al, 2009: An Evidence-Based Systematic Review on the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome - American College of Gastroenterology Task Force on IBS. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 104.

--------------------
STABLE: ♂, IBS-D 50+ years - Science of IBS

The FODMAP Approach to Managing IBS Symptoms
Evidence-based Dietary Management of Functional GI Symptoms: The FODMAP Approach
FODMAP Chart & Cheatsheet
The Role of Food & Dietary Intervention in IBS

Print Remind Me Notify Moderator