Can Indian Food Cause IBS?
December 6, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Indian cuisine is diverse and includes a wide range of foods, spices, and cooking styles. While there’s no single “Indian diet” that causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), certain ingredients or dishes commonly found in Indian food might trigger or exacerbate symptoms in individuals with IBS.
IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea, constipation, or both), often without evidence of underlying damage to the digestive system.
Some components commonly used in Indian cuisine that might potentially trigger IBS symptoms in susceptible individuals include:
- Spices: Certain spices commonly used in Indian cooking, such as chili peppers, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric, might trigger gastrointestinal irritation or exacerbate symptoms in some people with IBS, especially those sensitive to spicy foods.
- High-fiber foods: Some traditional Indian dishes contain high-fiber ingredients like lentils, beans, chickpeas, and certain vegetables. While fiber is generally beneficial for digestive health, in some cases, it can worsen symptoms for individuals with IBS, particularly those sensitive to certain types of fibers known as fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs).
- Dairy products: Many Indian dishes include dairy products such as yogurt, paneer (Indian cheese), and ghee (clarified butter). Dairy products can be problematic for individuals with lactose intolerance or those with sensitivity to dairy, which can be common triggers for IBS symptoms.
- Fried or fatty foods: Some Indian dishes may be prepared with higher amounts of oil or fat, which can contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort in individuals sensitive to fatty or fried foods.
However, it’s important to note that triggers for IBS can vary significantly among individuals. What causes symptoms in one person might not affect another. Managing IBS involves identifying and avoiding triggers, following a personalized diet plan, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
If someone suspects that certain Indian foods trigger their IBS symptoms, it can be helpful to keep a food diary to identify specific triggers and consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice and strategies to manage IBS symptoms effectively.