http://chriskresser.com/
Hi. After the bad things were ruled out, I was diagnosed 2 years ago with IBS. The only significant symptom is the inability to pass gas to varying degrees, and the associated pressure and discomfort. Certain stresses did make symptoms worse. I went on a low FODMAP diet, which initially made things worse, but by also cutting out peppers and chilli, things did improve. When re-introducing FODMAPs, I seemed to have reactions to wheat bread and garlic. Now comes the twist! On two occasions I have visited the US on vacation from the UK, and within 24 hours I am totally symptom free! What’s more, I can eat ANYTHING including the wheat, peppers etc and remain symptom free! What’s more, some of the specific stresses that tend to increase symptoms at home (such as a major argument with the partner!) also have no effect when I am away. In fact, my average stress level on my most recent level was many times greater than that at home (getting lost, delays, jet lag, arguments, even an emergency root canal procedure!) so I do not accept the view that “you relax more on vacation so the IBS goes down”. Within 12-24 hours of returning to the UK, my symptom returns. What on earth is going on here? In my mind there must be some underlying environmental factor which acts as a catalyst with some foods, but what on earth could it be (water?!)?
Filed under: Fitness