IBS Triggers and Risk Factors

Certain types of food, your eating habits, and your level of mental distress can all contribute to IBS.

Like the symptoms, triggers of IBS can vary from person to person. If you have been suffering some of the symptoms of IBS it can be helpful to keep a Symptom and Diet Journal that can clearly relate these symptoms to potential triggers of IBS.

Particular Foods That Could Trigger IBS

Different foods affect people differently. The most commonly reported foods that contribute to the onset of IBS symptoms may include:

problem foods for IBS

Alcohol
Carbonated beverages
Certain vegetables: broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, onions and garlic
Red meat and dark meat
Dairy products: milk, cheese and yogurt
Citrus fruits
Fructose
Deep fried foods
Whole grain foods: breads, cereals and nuts
Fats, oils, shortenings, butters, spreads and margarines

It is believed that raw fruits and vegetables will trigger symptoms of IBS more often than if these foods are cooked.

Eating Habits That Contribute to IBS

In some cases, an individual’s eating habits may trigger symptoms of IBS. Eating fast, drinking a lot of liquids with meals, going a long time between meals without snacking and swallowing air when you eat are all associated with the symptoms of IBS.

Stress, Depression and Trauma

Stress, depression, and other mental health issues can often aggravate any symptoms related to IBS. It is important to realize that your medical problems with IBS are NOT being caused by depression, anxiety, or any sort of mental illness. Instead, these medical problems may be pre-existing or may be caused by having to live with IBS on a daily basis. In either case, you are not suffering from IBS because of any mental problems.