First off, I would like to say "good going" - you have done a lot and found answers that work for you for IBS. I am going to get back into herbs now - I remember Slippery Elm was helping me before... thanks for the inspiration!!

As for FIBRE, I have a theory that a lot of the IBS pains are from a buildup of GAS, it might only take a little bit in the wrong places - "bloating". With that in mind, I think that fibre causes more bloating, and gas, than is worth it for what fibre does. i think fibre is over-rated. I have good, large, easy bowel movements without eating much fibre, and I gave up on fibre supplements a few years ago.

As for dietary aids for IBS, I have found a few good ones... and maybe it is the OILS and not the fibre that is helping me - so I vote for FLAXSEED,Pumpkin seeds, Sunflower seeds, Olive Oil, and here it comes: HEMPSEED HEARTS [hempseed with the shell taken off = "hearts"].

AND - I suppose you have tried to eliminate CARBS from your diet? I find they are really bad for my IBS, and my Fibro/Fatigue. Just a little bit of regular flour, even whole grain flour, or sugars or other carbs... even veggies - I eat just a little bit of veggies because they are good for nutrients but are a source of carbs.

My special PANCAKE: no flour, maybe a tablespoon [really!], but grind up the above mentioned oilseeds, and use olive oil, and a milk substitute [Almond Mild, Hemp Milk] [if cow milk bothers you]... and I sprinkle hemp seeds on the "2nd side" before it is flipped.
This is an example of how I have elminated carb foods and still manage to eat something!! [These are OUT: Potatoes, Rice, Corn, Flour, Pasta, Bread, sugars].

Good luck! [sorry I am so wordy]

Karlin

Hi Karlin

Thanks for the advice. Yes I think your right about the gas issue. I do try to avoid too many carbs, and try to have lighter meals regularly with at least 10g protein per meal, otherwise I get lethargic and depressed. There is a bit of a war going on between those that advocate having more protein and those against too much protein, but from experience I believe everyone is different and I personally have problems with carbs.

I try for a ratio of 30-40% protein, 40-50% carbs and 10% - 20% fat. Too much fat causes me pain, and every nutritionist, doctor, ayurveda have pointed out I have a problem with my liver and should avoid too much fat with each meal. I have flaxseed oil, chia seed and fish oil regularly. For yourself, I'd just warn not to have too much cooked fat, as its carcinogenic. Thanks for your words though. It's good to get positive feedback here.

regards

Hi inspiraller,

There might be some info here that can help you - the author has a very interesting take on fibre


http://www.fibermenace.com/gutsense/transition.html


I hope you can find a solution.