Being a chronic gastrointestinal disorder, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is closely connected with the food we eat, and the way we eat it. This is why diet plays a very important role in alleviating or aggravating IBS. For the gut to properly function in digesting and moving waste material, a diet, modified according to the needs of the sufferer must be followed. Several food categories and methods of eating are more beneficial and are included in any recommended diet for irritable bowel syndrome sufferers.

Although symptoms are generally similar for most irritable bowel syndrome sufferers, there is no general pattern to be strictly followed in creating the optimum diet to relieve symptoms. Each diet is individualized, according the predominant symptoms they are suffering from, any specific allergies or intolerance they may have, their lifestyle as well as the patient's personal preferences.

A dietary regime will usually begin with a general diet that has been shown to relieve symptoms in the majority of people, but changes may be made throughout the course of treatment, to adjust to the symptoms presented, as well as individual preferences.

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There are proven effects that some foods have on the gastrointestinal tract, which is why the content of the diet, as well as the manner of eating must be carefully observed to attain results. Generally, foods that make symptoms worse, by increasing abdominal pain and worsening bowel habits, are processed products, gas-forming fruits and vegetables, alcohol, lactose and caffeine. Also those foods high in fat and insoluble fiber are usually excluded initially from the diet.

The different categories of food can be detrimental to the passage of waste material in the intestinal tract and the colon. Adverse effects can cause pain in the area, as pressure of the contractions excites the nerve endings and also cause the swelling of the colon or abdominal distension, due to air accumulation.

These restricted foods are those that have been categorized as being gastrointestinal stimulants or irritants, which hamper the gastrocolic reflex. When there is a dysfunction of the gastrocolic reflex, digestion, absorption and evacuation can be difficult.

Soluble fiber can greatly aid in bowel movement, by relieving and relaxing the muscles in the intestines responsible for moving digested particles. In the case of irritable bowel syndrome, there is either hypercontractility (excessive contracting), which hastens the movement of the bowel, or hypocontractility (not enough contracting), which delays the movement of the bowel. The former can cause diarrhea, while the latter can cause constipation. It is not uncommon for both conditions to occur alternately in irritable bowel syndrome.

Soluble fiber can significantly help ease the contractions, which can reduce pain and discomfort in the area and stop both diarrhea and constipation episodes.

Choosing the right diet for irritable bowel syndrome relief is important. The identification of trigger foods and the introduction of foods that help ease symptoms, while restricting those that cause the symptoms to worsen is a slow but essential part of overcoming IBS.