5 foods that can trigger irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition characterized by abdominal discomfort associated with changes in intestinal transit and is currently diagnosed according to the new Rome IV criteria.

Recent research has shown that many symptoms of IBS are related to the hypersensitivity of the nerves found in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. These nerves are different from those in the spinal cord and brain. For some people, IBS may arise from the way the gut nerves communicate with the brain or the way the brain processes this information.

Diet is an essential factor in maintaining proper gut health. Otherwise, inflammatory foods such as carbonated beverages, dairy products, citrus fruits, some vegetables such as cabbage and legumes such as beans can lead to irritable bowel syndrome.

According to the Mayo Clinic, irritable bowel syndrome is a common condition that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation.

Other causes of this condition include abnormalities of the nervous system, stress at an early age, infections caused by bacteria and viruses, muscle contractions in the gut, and changes in gut microbes.

It should be noted that, in most cases, people with irritable bowel syndrome show more frequent symptoms during periods of increased stress.

Now, it is essential to note the foods that increase the risk of suffering from this disease. Foods high in lectins can increase inflammation in the gut. This carbohydrate-bound protein attaches to cell membranes in the digestive tract and to sugar in the body, writes Week.

5 foods that can trigger irritable bowel syndrome

There are five foods to avoid to maintain gut health:

• Tomatoes: Although a vegetable rich in fiber and vitamin C, tomatoes can have harmful effects on health due to the large number of seeds they contain. They contain many lectins that can trigger digestive problems if they bind to the stomach lining. It is recommended to replace them with lettuce, spinach or broccoli, among others.
• Potatoes: This food is rich in lectins, which can harm gut health. Although it stands out as a source of vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates, it contains lectins.
• Nuts: Peanuts and cashews are high in protein and antioxidants, but they are high in lectins that can pass through the intestinal lining into the bloodstream. Thus, having a large volume of these substances in the blood can cause the growth of carcinogens, the cells that cause cancer.
• Fried red meat: It is clear that fried meat is not healthy as it increases the level of obesity due to the high percentage of fat and is also not healthy for the gut. Ideally, you should eat better chicken, fish or lean meat.
• Spices: they are used to flavor food; however, they can be dangerous because they can increase IBS symptoms.