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Happy Tummy Expert

3 weeks ago

Dear Amit, Thank you for the question.

Dietary fiber also known as roughage is a type of carbohydrate, It’s a component of the plant which is resistant to digestion by the enzymes in the human system thereby making it indigestible. It is edible and considered to be an essential nutrient in your daily diet.

The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of fiber for Maleis 30g per day

There are many kinds of fibers like soluble (as in oats, apple), insoluble (whole grain) , prebiotic (onion, green banana, chicory)  which occur naturally in various foods we eat in our daily diet and all of them are beneficial for us in their own unique way.  Diets with a high content of fibre tend to have a positive effect on health like-

• Improves bowel function

• Adds bulk to stool and promotes regularity

• Helps reduced calorie intake due to the feeling of satiety (as fiber promotes a feeling of fullness).

• Regulates blood sugar level

• Regulates blood pressure

• Helps lowers total and LDL cholesterol thereby reducing the risk of heart diseases.

• Helps support growth of healthy gut bacteria and overall digestive health.

IBS is characterized by a variety of chronic symptoms that include abdominal pain, an alteration in bowel habits, constipation, Diarrhoea and flatulence. IBS can be managed by eliminating some exacerbating factors such as certain drugs, stressor conditions and changes in dietary habits. 

Nutritional Tips to manage IBS

• Too much fiber at once can cause gas, which can trigger IBS symptoms. Adding fiber to your diet slowly, may help prevent gas and bloating.

• One of the dietary factors associated with bloating is the intake and poor absorption of short chain carbohydrates called FODMAP foods. Consumption of foods that as may lead to excess gas production and poor gas clearance. In case of severe bloating abdominal pain and/or IBS try to limit the intake of FODMAP containing foods such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, corn, turnips, onions, peas, wheat, dairy, radishes, lentils, apples, pears etc.

• Gluten free foods are recommended try to limit the consumption of cereal grains and other food products made from whole wheat, barley, oats, rye etc., as they contain gliadin.

• If Diarrhoea is present then limit the intake of Excess fiber and dairy products.

• If constipation is persistent then include high fiber foods with adequate fluid intake 

Sharing with you some of the Indian foods that can be eaten in management of IBS

• Rice

• Millets

• Corn

• Fresh fruits & vegetables (Limit FODMAP containing foods)

• Lean meats, eggs.

• Low fat dairy, curds, etc.

For a customised and personalised meal plan for specific conditions, please contact your Health care professional.

Hope we have answered your query.

Wishing you a great day ahead.

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