IBS - Irritable Bowel Syndrome - 'Living Hell'

Are there others in r/Kerala dealing with IBS? Has anyone found a way to successfully manage or even cure it? How do you handle it daily? Also, which Kerala-specific foods are safe to eat and which ones should be avoided?

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Look into the FODMAP diet. Everyone has different sensitivities, so try an elimination method to see what works for you. Unfortunately, the typical Kerala diet isn’t great for this, and it’s often unhealthy in other ways too.

Hi. I’ve been struggling with IBS for three years now. It’s just a part of my life at this point. I’m doing much better thanks to strict diet control, but it’s still a daily battle. I can’t suggest a perfect Kerala diet, but I can help you identify potential trigger foods.

It took me some time to realize I had become lactose intolerant. Once I stopped eating dairy, things improved quite a bit. You’ll need to figure out your own triggers, but I found that Finnesa (got mine here) really helped with my gut balance and digestion. Definitely consult a professional if you haven’t already.

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I’ve had IBS for the last two years. I still haven’t fully figured out my triggers; it just seems to come and go as it pleases. One thing I’ve noticed is that reducing the stress caused by the condition helps a lot! Also, could you share what your symptoms are? Thanks.

I’ve been dealing with IBS for five years. It’s miserable, but I’ve managed to control it through elimination. Some days are still unpredictable, but it’s mostly under control. I avoid dairy like milk, curd, and ice cream, along with mayo and heavy masalas found in dishes like biriyani or Meen pollichathu. I stick to consistent meals and find that chicken, eggs, and fish are easier on my system than most vegetables or other meats. I also stay away from processed foods. Interestingly, some high-FODMAP items like apples, cabbage, and cauliflower are major triggers for me. It takes a lot of effort to figure out what works, but it is manageable. My flare-ups used to be instant, but now they are delayed by an hour or two, which I consider progress. When eating out, I plan ahead to avoid social embarrassment. Probiotics also help keep my stomach calm. I miss eating whatever I want, but I’d rather be comfortable.

Hey, can I send you a DM? I’m having some pain that feels like IBS, but I’m not sure. Maybe I can share some of the things I’ve tried.

There is no cure for IBS. You can only manage it through diet and by treating the symptoms.

It actually stopped when I moved to the UK, but it started right back up when I came home for a holiday.