From the Guidelines
For IBS with bloating and hyperacidity, I strongly recommend a low-FODMAP vegetarian diet that avoids trigger foods, as it has been shown to be the most effective dietary treatment for IBS symptoms, including bloating and abdominal pain, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Principles of the Diet
- Start with a 4-6 week restriction phase, where high FODMAP foods are avoided
- Gradually reintroduce FODMAP foods to identify specific triggers
- Personalize the diet based on individual tolerance and symptoms
Sample Meal Plan
- Breakfast: plain oatmeal with water or lactose-free milk, topped with a small amount of banana
- Lunch: quinoa bowl with cooked carrots, zucchini, and tofu
- Dinner: brown rice with stir-fried tempeh and low-FODMAP vegetables like bell peppers and eggplant
- Snacks: rice cakes with small amounts of peanut butter or lactose-free yogurt
Important Considerations
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Consider ginger or peppermint tea between meals to soothe digestion
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals and chew food thoroughly
- Avoid common triggers like onions, garlic, beans, lentils, cauliflower, and spicy foods
- Limit acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits that can worsen hyperacidity
Additional Recommendations
- Consider taking a probiotic supplement specifically formulated for IBS to help restore gut flora balance, as supported by the study 1
- Consult with a registered dietitian or a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and support, as recommended by the study 1
From the Research
Dietary Recommendations for IBS with Bloating and Hyperacidity
To manage IBS symptoms, including bloating and hyperacidity, a low FODMAP diet is recommended 2, 3, 4, 5. This diet involves restricting the intake of fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols.
Key Components of a Low FODMAP Diet
- Restrict foods high in FODMAPs, such as:
- Wheat, barley, and rye
- Onions, garlic, and beans
- Apples, pears, and watermelon
- Dairy products with high lactose content
- Increase intake of low FODMAP foods, such as:
- Gluten-free bread and pasta
- Fresh fruits like bananas, berries, and citrus fruits
- Vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots
- Lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products
Sample Diet Chart for a Vegetarian with IBS
- Breakfast:
- Gluten-free toast with almond butter and banana slices
- Lactose-free yogurt with berries and honey
- Lunch:
- Grilled vegetable salad with quinoa and a citrus vinaigrette dressing
- Lentil soup with gluten-free bread
- Dinner:
- Grilled tofu or tempeh with roasted vegetables and brown rice
- Vegetable stir-fry with gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles