Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: The only way from here is up?

Hey -- hang in there, you're almost through! I can't advise you on the colonoscopy since I had a barium GI scan instead, but if it's similar at all I can tell you that the prep is almost the worst part of it - other than some discomfort during the procedure. I would also advise to stick to IBS-safe foods afterwards -- you'll probably have the urge to eat a whole bunch (which I completely understand) but I'd advise to keep it light -- the whole small, frequent meals thing.

I lost about 30 lbs in a month back when my symptoms first became bad and I think many others on this board have had similar experiences. It takes some time, but once you become more stable and stop having to worry so much about what to eat (because the diet will be second nature), then you should gradually gain it back. Of the whole experience the weight loss freaked me out the most since it was the first symptom that caused me to be seriously concerned for my health, but it did stabilize after some time. Just don't force it - you might end up only making the IBS worse if you eat too much or go off the diet.

You're going through a period of change and stress in your life right now (and I'm sure the accident didn't help - I hope everyone is OK), so it's natural that your symptoms are going to be worse, even if you are following the diet to the tee. Just try to take it easy, deal with one thing at a time, and try not to be overwhelmed by your fears or concerns. Nothing in this process is instantaneous, it takes patience and dilligence, but in the end you'll feel better if you stick it through.

That's my little pep talk -- good luck tomorrow!

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