Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Deprivation Depression

Wendy,

The key, for me, was committing to the diet whole-heartedly and cutting out ALL possible triggers. Every single one of them. The first few weeks really really sucked. I was angry, but I was tired of my stomach and its issues dictating my life. That was last October, and I had been consistently sick since January of last year. By the end of December -- so 2 whole months? -- I was no longer getting sick. I have had only three IBS attacks since I started, so only three in 6.5 months. Two of them were from lettuce, which I just have to give up on (which is okay, because, really, it's just lettuce).

When I started out, I kept thinking that if I could get stable, I could try some of those things I'd cut out again. For the most part, I haven't. I've found that the restrictions of IBS triggers and actual lactose intolerance have made me a much more creative cook. I make sure to cook extra food each weekend so I'm not tempted to go grab something expensive and unhealthy at lunch. My food tastes way better anyway.

I've found snacks and meals that I love. I can occasionally indulge in a higher fat food or a small glass of wine with dinner, but I've given up meat, caffeine, and dairy. And honestly, I don't miss them. I also don't miss being sick.

Recommit yourself to it for you -- so that you can feel healthy and do things in your life. Use whatever resources you need to keep on track. You will enjoy the cruise and the wedding and daily life so much better and you deserve to.

Peace and strength.

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IBS-C, D and nausea with acute attacks, stable on EFI for 3 years

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