Foods That May Cause Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms

Some foods that may cause symptoms include:

• Fatty foods like french fries

• Milk products like cheese or ice cream (especially in people who have trouble digesting lactose, or milk sugar)

• Chocolate

• Alcohol

• Caffeine (found in coffee, tea, and some sodas)

• Carbonated drinks like soda

• Sorbitol, a sweetener found in dietetic foods and in some chewing gums

• Gas-producing foods including beans and certain vegetables like broccoli or cabbage.

You may want to keep a journal keeping track of the foods that seem to cause trouble. If certain foods cause your symptoms to flare up, you can try eating less of those foods. Discuss your findings with your doctor. You also may want to consult a registered dietitian, who can help you make changes in your diet.