Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that causes abdominal pain, bloating and gas, which is experienced by a lot of people.  As a matter of fact, about 45 million Americans suffer from IBS, and it gets worse during the holidays. But, a new diet may help patients get through Christmas without experiencing IBS. 

FODMAP Diet Is Designed For IBS Patients To Know Which Food To Avoid

FODMAP may be the answer to irritable bowel syndrome.  It's actually an acronym for Fermentable Oligosaccharides Disaccharides Monosaccharides Polyols. Oligosaccharides are usually found in cars like wheat and also in some vegetables;   disaccharides are lactose found in milk; monosaccharides are found in honey or in high-fructose corn syrup; polyols are found in sugar alcohols used as artificial sweeteners.

These are food molecules that can be hard to break down and absorb, thus causing IBS.   According to Washington Post, foods high in FODMAP may draw water to the intestines, making you feel bloated and crampy.  IBS patients can visit IBS dieticians who specialize in the FODMAP diet.

Express reported that people often late at night during Christmas, and this may also trigger IBS.  In order to avoid flare-ups, it's best to be aware of foods that trigger IBS, and avoid heavy meals, too.

This Christmas, Do Not Overindulge In Food And Alcoholic Drinks

Dr Ayesha Akbar, consultant gastroenterologist at St Mark's Hospital, advised that for people who have irritable bowel syndrome, it's best to avoid bloating foods like beans, garlic, dairy, rye, sugar alcohols, and carbonated drinks.  Also, drink plenty of water because alcohol is dehydrating.  Do not overindulge in food, because this will trigger flare-ups.

Dr Akbar said that knowing what causes your irritable bowel syndrome flare-ups will help you enjoy the holidays.  For example, if you notice that alcohol triggers your IBS, its best to avoid or cut back.  Also, probiotics found in yoghurt can calm the stomach and reduce IBS symptoms, so they can be taken as supplements.