Having you haveirritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you’ve probably read a lot about whatfoods to eatandavoid, but it’s harder to find information on what to drink.However, some drinks contain things that set off yourIBS symptoms. This article tells you the best drinks options that won’t aggravate your system.Soft DrinksSodas aren’t a great option because of thecarbonation. It puts you at risk for excessive gassiness that can irritate your IBS.Skipping sodas might be a hardship if you like them. But you may be doing your overall health a favor.Regular soda has extremely high levels of sugar. That’s linked to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.While diet soda is an alternative, it’s probably best to avoid artificial sweeteners if you have a sensitive digestive system.Replace Sodas With Iced TeaIced tea is a great non-soda option. Feel free to use black, green, or white, or one of the herbal teas that are good for IBS.You can keep a pitcher of homemade iced tea in your refrigerator. When dining out, ask for unsweetened iced tea.You can add a small amount of sugar (not artificial sweeteners). Low quantities shouldn’t cause symptoms.Low and High FODMAP FoodsMilk AlternativesMany people with IBS arelactose intolerant.So it might be better to use alternatives in your cereal, smoothies, and wherever else you use milk.Your best choices are:Lactose-free milkCoconut milk(1/2 cup limit)Rice milkAlmond milk (small quantities)Even if you aren’t lactose intolerant, lactose is one of the fermentable oligo-, di-, mono-saccharides and polyols (FODMAPs). Those are carbohydrates tied to IBS symptoms.Soy milk isn’t a good option for people with IBS. It’s high in FODMAPs.The Best Milks for IBSRecapSoda and milk may aggravate your IBS. Better choices are unsweetened or lightly sweetened ice tea and alternative milks. Avoid soy milk and artificial sweeteners.Best Hot DrinksTara Moore/Taxi/Getty ImagesYou have a lot to choose from when it comes to hot drinks.Hot TeaHot tea is a great option.Black, green, and white tea are all low in FODMAPs.Choose decaffeinated tea if you find that caffeine irritates your digestive system.Herbal TeaHerbal teas offer some additional soothing benefits:Peppermint has antispasmodic (anti-pain!) qualities.Anise and fennel teas are great forIBS-C, but they aren’t part of alow-FODMAP diet.Chamomile is soothing, but also not on the low-FODMAP diet.Enjoy in ModerationHot drink options to enjoy in moderation include:CoffeeEspressoHot chocolateIt may be best to limit yourself to one of these per day. That way, you won’t consume too many FODMAPs at a time.Make your hot chocolate with water, not milk. If you want creamer in your coffee, try a milk alternative.Best Adult DrinksAlcohol can be a digestive irritant. But IBS doesn’t mean you can’t ever have a cocktail. If you’re avoiding FODMAPs, you can have:BeerGinVodkaWhiskeyWine (red, white, or sparkling)Limit yourself to no more than two in a day. Don’t use high-FODMAP fruit drinks as mixers. Cranberry is the only low-FODMAP option.If you can handle carbonation, you can mix your drinks with club soda.RecapBlack, green, white, and herbal teas are good options. Switch to decaf varieties if caffeine bothers you. Some coffee and hot chocolate are okay. Use milk substitutes for creamer.Stick to the list of low-FODMAP alcohol options. Have a maximum of two a day. Don’t mix drinks with fruit juices other than cranberry.Probiotic DrinksFermented drinks are a great option for IBS. They can improve the makeup of your gut bacteria, and theoretically reduce symptoms.These products contain various strains ofprobiotics. Those are friendly bacteria that are good for gut health.Kombucha is a fermented tea. Read the label and pick one without a high sugar content. Kombucha does contain a trace amount of alcohol.Kefiris a fermented milk drink. The fermentation process takes out most of the lactose, so it’s fine if you’re lactose intolerant. You can also find non-dairy options, such as coconut kefirs.Many yogurt drink options are available as well. Be sure to read labels and avoid taking in too much added sugar. Choose those withouthigh-FODMAP fruits.The Best Probiotics for IBSGreen SmoothiesGreen smoothiesare blended drinks with a mix of liquid(s), vegetables, and fruits.To make one, you need a blender powerful enough to pulverize green leafy vegetables. Try blending the veggies with liquid before adding other ingredients.Choose with low-FODMAP greens and fruits. Spinach is a nice mild green to start with.Bananas add sweetness. Berries add great phytonutrients. (Avoid blackberries—they’re high in FODMAPs.)Add some nut butter, coconut oil, and/or half of anavocadofor healthy anti-inflammatory fats.Chia seedsand/or groundflaxseedcan help with IBS symptoms.Good options for your smoothie liquid include:Almond milk (small quantity)Coconut milk (limit 1/2 cup)Coconut water(3 oz. limit)KefirLactose-free milkRice milkWaterGreen JuicesGreen juices are made with a juicer. The machine wrings out liquid from fruits and vegetables.Most of the pulp is left behind. That means there’s less harder-to-digest insoluble fiber.You can drink fruits and vegetables faster and in higher concentrations than if you ate them. That means you can quickly get an infusion of phytonutrients and IBS-friendlier soluble fiber.Remember to choose low-FODMAP ingredients.RecapFermented probiotic drinks, green smoothies, and green juices can be good options with IBS. Avoid high-FODMAP ingredients and excess sugar.Water Is the Best Drink of AllGuido Mieth/Getty ImagesWater is always your best choice. Every cell in your body needs it to function well. It’s also good for staying hydrated.Water is essential for optimal digestion, too. It helps your system break down, absorb, and move food along.Drinking enough water is extremely important if you have chronic constipation. It keeps your stool moist enough to pass comfortably. If you don’t drink enough, your body may pull liquid out of your stools and make them hard to pass.It’s also crucial if you have chronic diarrhea. Too much water is expelled in your bowel movements. That contributes to a state of dehydration.To get enough water throughout the day:Take a good long drink each time you fill it up, then top off the glass.Carry a good glass, metal, or BPA-free plastic water bottle.Always have water with you in the car.Adding a little lemon juice makes it more interesting and helps with digestion.SummaryWhen choosing drinks that won’t aggravate IBS, avoid:CarbonationLactose, if you’re intolerantHigh-FODMAP ingredientsSugary drinksArtificial sweetenersHigh amounts of caffeineGood choices include:Iced tea instead of sodaMilk alternatives like almond or coconut milkHot black, green, white, and herbal teaCoffee and hot chocolate in moderationBeer, gin, vodka, whiskey, and wineKombucha, kefir, and yogurt drinksGreen smoothies and green juicesWaterFrequently Asked QuestionsYes, coffee can cause an IBS flare-up. High caffeine levels can increase stomach acid production and research has found a link between caffeine intake and severity of IBS symptoms.However, many people with IBS can enjoy coffee in moderation.It depends how it affects your symptoms.To ease a flare, try:Applying heat to the abdomen to soothe spasmsDrinking IBS-friendly teas to alleviate crampsPracticing stress reduction strategies like breathing exercises and meditationTo avoid future flare-ups, keep a symptom diary, learn your triggers, and follow your doctor’s advice.Learn More6 Effective Strategies for Handling an IBS Attack
Having you haveirritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you’ve probably read a lot about whatfoods to eatandavoid, but it’s harder to find information on what to drink.However, some drinks contain things that set off yourIBS symptoms. This article tells you the best drinks options that won’t aggravate your system.
Having you haveirritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you’ve probably read a lot about whatfoods to eatandavoid, but it’s harder to find information on what to drink.
However, some drinks contain things that set off yourIBS symptoms. This article tells you the best drinks options that won’t aggravate your system.
Soft DrinksSodas aren’t a great option because of thecarbonation. It puts you at risk for excessive gassiness that can irritate your IBS.Skipping sodas might be a hardship if you like them. But you may be doing your overall health a favor.Regular soda has extremely high levels of sugar. That’s linked to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.While diet soda is an alternative, it’s probably best to avoid artificial sweeteners if you have a sensitive digestive system.Replace Sodas With Iced TeaIced tea is a great non-soda option. Feel free to use black, green, or white, or one of the herbal teas that are good for IBS.You can keep a pitcher of homemade iced tea in your refrigerator. When dining out, ask for unsweetened iced tea.You can add a small amount of sugar (not artificial sweeteners). Low quantities shouldn’t cause symptoms.Low and High FODMAP FoodsMilk AlternativesMany people with IBS arelactose intolerant.So it might be better to use alternatives in your cereal, smoothies, and wherever else you use milk.Your best choices are:Lactose-free milkCoconut milk(1/2 cup limit)Rice milkAlmond milk (small quantities)Even if you aren’t lactose intolerant, lactose is one of the fermentable oligo-, di-, mono-saccharides and polyols (FODMAPs). Those are carbohydrates tied to IBS symptoms.Soy milk isn’t a good option for people with IBS. It’s high in FODMAPs.The Best Milks for IBSRecapSoda and milk may aggravate your IBS. Better choices are unsweetened or lightly sweetened ice tea and alternative milks. Avoid soy milk and artificial sweeteners.Best Hot DrinksTara Moore/Taxi/Getty ImagesYou have a lot to choose from when it comes to hot drinks.Hot TeaHot tea is a great option.Black, green, and white tea are all low in FODMAPs.Choose decaffeinated tea if you find that caffeine irritates your digestive system.Herbal TeaHerbal teas offer some additional soothing benefits:Peppermint has antispasmodic (anti-pain!) qualities.Anise and fennel teas are great forIBS-C, but they aren’t part of alow-FODMAP diet.Chamomile is soothing, but also not on the low-FODMAP diet.Enjoy in ModerationHot drink options to enjoy in moderation include:CoffeeEspressoHot chocolateIt may be best to limit yourself to one of these per day. That way, you won’t consume too many FODMAPs at a time.Make your hot chocolate with water, not milk. If you want creamer in your coffee, try a milk alternative.Best Adult DrinksAlcohol can be a digestive irritant. But IBS doesn’t mean you can’t ever have a cocktail. If you’re avoiding FODMAPs, you can have:BeerGinVodkaWhiskeyWine (red, white, or sparkling)Limit yourself to no more than two in a day. Don’t use high-FODMAP fruit drinks as mixers. Cranberry is the only low-FODMAP option.If you can handle carbonation, you can mix your drinks with club soda.RecapBlack, green, white, and herbal teas are good options. Switch to decaf varieties if caffeine bothers you. Some coffee and hot chocolate are okay. Use milk substitutes for creamer.Stick to the list of low-FODMAP alcohol options. Have a maximum of two a day. Don’t mix drinks with fruit juices other than cranberry.Probiotic DrinksFermented drinks are a great option for IBS. They can improve the makeup of your gut bacteria, and theoretically reduce symptoms.These products contain various strains ofprobiotics. Those are friendly bacteria that are good for gut health.Kombucha is a fermented tea. Read the label and pick one without a high sugar content. Kombucha does contain a trace amount of alcohol.Kefiris a fermented milk drink. The fermentation process takes out most of the lactose, so it’s fine if you’re lactose intolerant. You can also find non-dairy options, such as coconut kefirs.Many yogurt drink options are available as well. Be sure to read labels and avoid taking in too much added sugar. Choose those withouthigh-FODMAP fruits.The Best Probiotics for IBSGreen SmoothiesGreen smoothiesare blended drinks with a mix of liquid(s), vegetables, and fruits.To make one, you need a blender powerful enough to pulverize green leafy vegetables. Try blending the veggies with liquid before adding other ingredients.Choose with low-FODMAP greens and fruits. Spinach is a nice mild green to start with.Bananas add sweetness. Berries add great phytonutrients. (Avoid blackberries—they’re high in FODMAPs.)Add some nut butter, coconut oil, and/or half of anavocadofor healthy anti-inflammatory fats.Chia seedsand/or groundflaxseedcan help with IBS symptoms.Good options for your smoothie liquid include:Almond milk (small quantity)Coconut milk (limit 1/2 cup)Coconut water(3 oz. limit)KefirLactose-free milkRice milkWaterGreen JuicesGreen juices are made with a juicer. The machine wrings out liquid from fruits and vegetables.Most of the pulp is left behind. That means there’s less harder-to-digest insoluble fiber.You can drink fruits and vegetables faster and in higher concentrations than if you ate them. That means you can quickly get an infusion of phytonutrients and IBS-friendlier soluble fiber.Remember to choose low-FODMAP ingredients.RecapFermented probiotic drinks, green smoothies, and green juices can be good options with IBS. Avoid high-FODMAP ingredients and excess sugar.Water Is the Best Drink of AllGuido Mieth/Getty ImagesWater is always your best choice. Every cell in your body needs it to function well. It’s also good for staying hydrated.Water is essential for optimal digestion, too. It helps your system break down, absorb, and move food along.Drinking enough water is extremely important if you have chronic constipation. It keeps your stool moist enough to pass comfortably. If you don’t drink enough, your body may pull liquid out of your stools and make them hard to pass.It’s also crucial if you have chronic diarrhea. Too much water is expelled in your bowel movements. That contributes to a state of dehydration.To get enough water throughout the day:Take a good long drink each time you fill it up, then top off the glass.Carry a good glass, metal, or BPA-free plastic water bottle.Always have water with you in the car.Adding a little lemon juice makes it more interesting and helps with digestion.
Soft DrinksSodas aren’t a great option because of thecarbonation. It puts you at risk for excessive gassiness that can irritate your IBS.Skipping sodas might be a hardship if you like them. But you may be doing your overall health a favor.Regular soda has extremely high levels of sugar. That’s linked to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.While diet soda is an alternative, it’s probably best to avoid artificial sweeteners if you have a sensitive digestive system.Replace Sodas With Iced TeaIced tea is a great non-soda option. Feel free to use black, green, or white, or one of the herbal teas that are good for IBS.You can keep a pitcher of homemade iced tea in your refrigerator. When dining out, ask for unsweetened iced tea.You can add a small amount of sugar (not artificial sweeteners). Low quantities shouldn’t cause symptoms.Low and High FODMAP Foods
Soft Drinks
Sodas aren’t a great option because of thecarbonation. It puts you at risk for excessive gassiness that can irritate your IBS.
Skipping sodas might be a hardship if you like them. But you may be doing your overall health a favor.
Regular soda has extremely high levels of sugar. That’s linked to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
While diet soda is an alternative, it’s probably best to avoid artificial sweeteners if you have a sensitive digestive system.
Replace Sodas With Iced Tea
Iced tea is a great non-soda option. Feel free to use black, green, or white, or one of the herbal teas that are good for IBS.
You can keep a pitcher of homemade iced tea in your refrigerator. When dining out, ask for unsweetened iced tea.
You can add a small amount of sugar (not artificial sweeteners). Low quantities shouldn’t cause symptoms.
Low and High FODMAP Foods
Milk AlternativesMany people with IBS arelactose intolerant.So it might be better to use alternatives in your cereal, smoothies, and wherever else you use milk.Your best choices are:Lactose-free milkCoconut milk(1/2 cup limit)Rice milkAlmond milk (small quantities)Even if you aren’t lactose intolerant, lactose is one of the fermentable oligo-, di-, mono-saccharides and polyols (FODMAPs). Those are carbohydrates tied to IBS symptoms.Soy milk isn’t a good option for people with IBS. It’s high in FODMAPs.The Best Milks for IBSRecapSoda and milk may aggravate your IBS. Better choices are unsweetened or lightly sweetened ice tea and alternative milks. Avoid soy milk and artificial sweeteners.
Milk Alternatives
Many people with IBS arelactose intolerant.So it might be better to use alternatives in your cereal, smoothies, and wherever else you use milk.
Your best choices are:
Even if you aren’t lactose intolerant, lactose is one of the fermentable oligo-, di-, mono-saccharides and polyols (FODMAPs). Those are carbohydrates tied to IBS symptoms.
Soy milk isn’t a good option for people with IBS. It’s high in FODMAPs.
The Best Milks for IBS
RecapSoda and milk may aggravate your IBS. Better choices are unsweetened or lightly sweetened ice tea and alternative milks. Avoid soy milk and artificial sweeteners.
Recap
Soda and milk may aggravate your IBS. Better choices are unsweetened or lightly sweetened ice tea and alternative milks. Avoid soy milk and artificial sweeteners.
Best Hot DrinksTara Moore/Taxi/Getty ImagesYou have a lot to choose from when it comes to hot drinks.Hot TeaHot tea is a great option.Black, green, and white tea are all low in FODMAPs.Choose decaffeinated tea if you find that caffeine irritates your digestive system.Herbal TeaHerbal teas offer some additional soothing benefits:Peppermint has antispasmodic (anti-pain!) qualities.Anise and fennel teas are great forIBS-C, but they aren’t part of alow-FODMAP diet.Chamomile is soothing, but also not on the low-FODMAP diet.Enjoy in ModerationHot drink options to enjoy in moderation include:CoffeeEspressoHot chocolateIt may be best to limit yourself to one of these per day. That way, you won’t consume too many FODMAPs at a time.Make your hot chocolate with water, not milk. If you want creamer in your coffee, try a milk alternative.
Best Hot Drinks
Tara Moore/Taxi/Getty Images
You have a lot to choose from when it comes to hot drinks.
Hot Tea
Hot tea is a great option.Black, green, and white tea are all low in FODMAPs.Choose decaffeinated tea if you find that caffeine irritates your digestive system.
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas offer some additional soothing benefits:
Enjoy in Moderation
Hot drink options to enjoy in moderation include:
It may be best to limit yourself to one of these per day. That way, you won’t consume too many FODMAPs at a time.
Make your hot chocolate with water, not milk. If you want creamer in your coffee, try a milk alternative.
Best Adult DrinksAlcohol can be a digestive irritant. But IBS doesn’t mean you can’t ever have a cocktail. If you’re avoiding FODMAPs, you can have:BeerGinVodkaWhiskeyWine (red, white, or sparkling)Limit yourself to no more than two in a day. Don’t use high-FODMAP fruit drinks as mixers. Cranberry is the only low-FODMAP option.If you can handle carbonation, you can mix your drinks with club soda.RecapBlack, green, white, and herbal teas are good options. Switch to decaf varieties if caffeine bothers you. Some coffee and hot chocolate are okay. Use milk substitutes for creamer.Stick to the list of low-FODMAP alcohol options. Have a maximum of two a day. Don’t mix drinks with fruit juices other than cranberry.
Best Adult Drinks
Alcohol can be a digestive irritant. But IBS doesn’t mean you can’t ever have a cocktail. If you’re avoiding FODMAPs, you can have:
Limit yourself to no more than two in a day. Don’t use high-FODMAP fruit drinks as mixers. Cranberry is the only low-FODMAP option.
If you can handle carbonation, you can mix your drinks with club soda.
RecapBlack, green, white, and herbal teas are good options. Switch to decaf varieties if caffeine bothers you. Some coffee and hot chocolate are okay. Use milk substitutes for creamer.Stick to the list of low-FODMAP alcohol options. Have a maximum of two a day. Don’t mix drinks with fruit juices other than cranberry.
Black, green, white, and herbal teas are good options. Switch to decaf varieties if caffeine bothers you. Some coffee and hot chocolate are okay. Use milk substitutes for creamer.Stick to the list of low-FODMAP alcohol options. Have a maximum of two a day. Don’t mix drinks with fruit juices other than cranberry.
Black, green, white, and herbal teas are good options. Switch to decaf varieties if caffeine bothers you. Some coffee and hot chocolate are okay. Use milk substitutes for creamer.
Stick to the list of low-FODMAP alcohol options. Have a maximum of two a day. Don’t mix drinks with fruit juices other than cranberry.
Probiotic DrinksFermented drinks are a great option for IBS. They can improve the makeup of your gut bacteria, and theoretically reduce symptoms.These products contain various strains ofprobiotics. Those are friendly bacteria that are good for gut health.Kombucha is a fermented tea. Read the label and pick one without a high sugar content. Kombucha does contain a trace amount of alcohol.Kefiris a fermented milk drink. The fermentation process takes out most of the lactose, so it’s fine if you’re lactose intolerant. You can also find non-dairy options, such as coconut kefirs.Many yogurt drink options are available as well. Be sure to read labels and avoid taking in too much added sugar. Choose those withouthigh-FODMAP fruits.The Best Probiotics for IBS
Probiotic Drinks
Fermented drinks are a great option for IBS. They can improve the makeup of your gut bacteria, and theoretically reduce symptoms.
These products contain various strains ofprobiotics. Those are friendly bacteria that are good for gut health.
Kombucha is a fermented tea. Read the label and pick one without a high sugar content. Kombucha does contain a trace amount of alcohol.
Kefiris a fermented milk drink. The fermentation process takes out most of the lactose, so it’s fine if you’re lactose intolerant. You can also find non-dairy options, such as coconut kefirs.
Many yogurt drink options are available as well. Be sure to read labels and avoid taking in too much added sugar. Choose those withouthigh-FODMAP fruits.
The Best Probiotics for IBS
Green SmoothiesGreen smoothiesare blended drinks with a mix of liquid(s), vegetables, and fruits.To make one, you need a blender powerful enough to pulverize green leafy vegetables. Try blending the veggies with liquid before adding other ingredients.Choose with low-FODMAP greens and fruits. Spinach is a nice mild green to start with.Bananas add sweetness. Berries add great phytonutrients. (Avoid blackberries—they’re high in FODMAPs.)Add some nut butter, coconut oil, and/or half of anavocadofor healthy anti-inflammatory fats.Chia seedsand/or groundflaxseedcan help with IBS symptoms.Good options for your smoothie liquid include:Almond milk (small quantity)Coconut milk (limit 1/2 cup)Coconut water(3 oz. limit)KefirLactose-free milkRice milkWater
Green Smoothies
Green smoothiesare blended drinks with a mix of liquid(s), vegetables, and fruits.
To make one, you need a blender powerful enough to pulverize green leafy vegetables. Try blending the veggies with liquid before adding other ingredients.
Choose with low-FODMAP greens and fruits. Spinach is a nice mild green to start with.
Bananas add sweetness. Berries add great phytonutrients. (Avoid blackberries—they’re high in FODMAPs.)
Add some nut butter, coconut oil, and/or half of anavocadofor healthy anti-inflammatory fats.Chia seedsand/or groundflaxseedcan help with IBS symptoms.
Good options for your smoothie liquid include:
Green JuicesGreen juices are made with a juicer. The machine wrings out liquid from fruits and vegetables.Most of the pulp is left behind. That means there’s less harder-to-digest insoluble fiber.You can drink fruits and vegetables faster and in higher concentrations than if you ate them. That means you can quickly get an infusion of phytonutrients and IBS-friendlier soluble fiber.Remember to choose low-FODMAP ingredients.RecapFermented probiotic drinks, green smoothies, and green juices can be good options with IBS. Avoid high-FODMAP ingredients and excess sugar.
Green Juices
Green juices are made with a juicer. The machine wrings out liquid from fruits and vegetables.
Most of the pulp is left behind. That means there’s less harder-to-digest insoluble fiber.
You can drink fruits and vegetables faster and in higher concentrations than if you ate them. That means you can quickly get an infusion of phytonutrients and IBS-friendlier soluble fiber.
Remember to choose low-FODMAP ingredients.
RecapFermented probiotic drinks, green smoothies, and green juices can be good options with IBS. Avoid high-FODMAP ingredients and excess sugar.
Fermented probiotic drinks, green smoothies, and green juices can be good options with IBS. Avoid high-FODMAP ingredients and excess sugar.
Water Is the Best Drink of AllGuido Mieth/Getty ImagesWater is always your best choice. Every cell in your body needs it to function well. It’s also good for staying hydrated.Water is essential for optimal digestion, too. It helps your system break down, absorb, and move food along.Drinking enough water is extremely important if you have chronic constipation. It keeps your stool moist enough to pass comfortably. If you don’t drink enough, your body may pull liquid out of your stools and make them hard to pass.It’s also crucial if you have chronic diarrhea. Too much water is expelled in your bowel movements. That contributes to a state of dehydration.To get enough water throughout the day:Take a good long drink each time you fill it up, then top off the glass.Carry a good glass, metal, or BPA-free plastic water bottle.Always have water with you in the car.Adding a little lemon juice makes it more interesting and helps with digestion.
Water Is the Best Drink of All
Guido Mieth/Getty Images
Water is always your best choice. Every cell in your body needs it to function well. It’s also good for staying hydrated.
Water is essential for optimal digestion, too. It helps your system break down, absorb, and move food along.
Drinking enough water is extremely important if you have chronic constipation. It keeps your stool moist enough to pass comfortably. If you don’t drink enough, your body may pull liquid out of your stools and make them hard to pass.
It’s also crucial if you have chronic diarrhea. Too much water is expelled in your bowel movements. That contributes to a state of dehydration.
To get enough water throughout the day:
SummaryWhen choosing drinks that won’t aggravate IBS, avoid:CarbonationLactose, if you’re intolerantHigh-FODMAP ingredientsSugary drinksArtificial sweetenersHigh amounts of caffeineGood choices include:Iced tea instead of sodaMilk alternatives like almond or coconut milkHot black, green, white, and herbal teaCoffee and hot chocolate in moderationBeer, gin, vodka, whiskey, and wineKombucha, kefir, and yogurt drinksGreen smoothies and green juicesWaterFrequently Asked QuestionsYes, coffee can cause an IBS flare-up. High caffeine levels can increase stomach acid production and research has found a link between caffeine intake and severity of IBS symptoms.However, many people with IBS can enjoy coffee in moderation.It depends how it affects your symptoms.To ease a flare, try:Applying heat to the abdomen to soothe spasmsDrinking IBS-friendly teas to alleviate crampsPracticing stress reduction strategies like breathing exercises and meditationTo avoid future flare-ups, keep a symptom diary, learn your triggers, and follow your doctor’s advice.Learn More6 Effective Strategies for Handling an IBS Attack
Summary
When choosing drinks that won’t aggravate IBS, avoid:
Good choices include:
Frequently Asked QuestionsYes, coffee can cause an IBS flare-up. High caffeine levels can increase stomach acid production and research has found a link between caffeine intake and severity of IBS symptoms.However, many people with IBS can enjoy coffee in moderation.It depends how it affects your symptoms.To ease a flare, try:Applying heat to the abdomen to soothe spasmsDrinking IBS-friendly teas to alleviate crampsPracticing stress reduction strategies like breathing exercises and meditationTo avoid future flare-ups, keep a symptom diary, learn your triggers, and follow your doctor’s advice.Learn More6 Effective Strategies for Handling an IBS Attack
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, coffee can cause an IBS flare-up. High caffeine levels can increase stomach acid production and research has found a link between caffeine intake and severity of IBS symptoms.However, many people with IBS can enjoy coffee in moderation.It depends how it affects your symptoms.
To ease a flare, try:Applying heat to the abdomen to soothe spasmsDrinking IBS-friendly teas to alleviate crampsPracticing stress reduction strategies like breathing exercises and meditationTo avoid future flare-ups, keep a symptom diary, learn your triggers, and follow your doctor’s advice.Learn More6 Effective Strategies for Handling an IBS Attack
To ease a flare, try:Applying heat to the abdomen to soothe spasmsDrinking IBS-friendly teas to alleviate crampsPracticing stress reduction strategies like breathing exercises and meditationTo avoid future flare-ups, keep a symptom diary, learn your triggers, and follow your doctor’s advice.
To ease a flare, try:
To avoid future flare-ups, keep a symptom diary, learn your triggers, and follow your doctor’s advice.
Learn More6 Effective Strategies for Handling an IBS Attack
10 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Hopkins Medicine.5 Foods to avoid if you have IBS.Nanayakkara WS, Skidmore PM, O’Brien L, Wilkinson TJ, Gearry RB.Efficacy of the low FODMAP diet for treating irritable bowel syndrome: the evidence to date.Clin Exp Gastroenterol. 2016;9:131-142. doi:10.2147/CEG.S86798Xiong L, Wang Y, Gong X, Chen M.Prevalence of lactose intolerance in patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome: data from a tertiary center in southern China.J Health Popul Nutr. 2017;36(1):38. doi:10.1186/s41043-017-0113-1Monash University.FODMAPs and irritable bowel syndrome.Monash University.Low FODMAP diet.Bell V, Ferrao J, Pimentel L, Pintado M, Fernandes T.One Health, fermented foods, and gut microbiota.Foods. 2018;7(12):195. doi:10.3390/foods7120195El-Salhy M, Ystad SO, Mazzawi T, Gundersen D.Dietary fiber in irritable bowel syndrome (review).Int J Mol Med. 2017;40(3):607-613. doi:10.3892/ijmm.2017.3072Koochakpoor G, Salari-Moghaddam A, Keshteli AH, Esmaillzadeh A, Adibi P.Association of coffee and caffeine intake with irritable bowel syndrome in adults.Front Nutr. 2021;8:632469. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.632469Cozma-Petruţ A, Loghin F, Miere D, Dumitraşcu DL.Diet in irritable bowel syndrome: what to recommend, not what to forbid to patients!.World J Gastroenterol. 2017;23(21):3771-3783. doi:10.3748/wjg.v23.i21.3771Ford AC, Moayyedi P, Chey WD, et al.American College of Gastroenterology monograph on management of irritable bowel syndrome.Am J Gastroenterol.2018;113(Suppl 2):1-18. doi:10.1038/s41395-018-0084-x
10 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Hopkins Medicine.5 Foods to avoid if you have IBS.Nanayakkara WS, Skidmore PM, O’Brien L, Wilkinson TJ, Gearry RB.Efficacy of the low FODMAP diet for treating irritable bowel syndrome: the evidence to date.Clin Exp Gastroenterol. 2016;9:131-142. doi:10.2147/CEG.S86798Xiong L, Wang Y, Gong X, Chen M.Prevalence of lactose intolerance in patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome: data from a tertiary center in southern China.J Health Popul Nutr. 2017;36(1):38. doi:10.1186/s41043-017-0113-1Monash University.FODMAPs and irritable bowel syndrome.Monash University.Low FODMAP diet.Bell V, Ferrao J, Pimentel L, Pintado M, Fernandes T.One Health, fermented foods, and gut microbiota.Foods. 2018;7(12):195. doi:10.3390/foods7120195El-Salhy M, Ystad SO, Mazzawi T, Gundersen D.Dietary fiber in irritable bowel syndrome (review).Int J Mol Med. 2017;40(3):607-613. doi:10.3892/ijmm.2017.3072Koochakpoor G, Salari-Moghaddam A, Keshteli AH, Esmaillzadeh A, Adibi P.Association of coffee and caffeine intake with irritable bowel syndrome in adults.Front Nutr. 2021;8:632469. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.632469Cozma-Petruţ A, Loghin F, Miere D, Dumitraşcu DL.Diet in irritable bowel syndrome: what to recommend, not what to forbid to patients!.World J Gastroenterol. 2017;23(21):3771-3783. doi:10.3748/wjg.v23.i21.3771Ford AC, Moayyedi P, Chey WD, et al.American College of Gastroenterology monograph on management of irritable bowel syndrome.Am J Gastroenterol.2018;113(Suppl 2):1-18. doi:10.1038/s41395-018-0084-x
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Hopkins Medicine.5 Foods to avoid if you have IBS.Nanayakkara WS, Skidmore PM, O’Brien L, Wilkinson TJ, Gearry RB.Efficacy of the low FODMAP diet for treating irritable bowel syndrome: the evidence to date.Clin Exp Gastroenterol. 2016;9:131-142. doi:10.2147/CEG.S86798Xiong L, Wang Y, Gong X, Chen M.Prevalence of lactose intolerance in patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome: data from a tertiary center in southern China.J Health Popul Nutr. 2017;36(1):38. doi:10.1186/s41043-017-0113-1Monash University.FODMAPs and irritable bowel syndrome.Monash University.Low FODMAP diet.Bell V, Ferrao J, Pimentel L, Pintado M, Fernandes T.One Health, fermented foods, and gut microbiota.Foods. 2018;7(12):195. doi:10.3390/foods7120195El-Salhy M, Ystad SO, Mazzawi T, Gundersen D.Dietary fiber in irritable bowel syndrome (review).Int J Mol Med. 2017;40(3):607-613. doi:10.3892/ijmm.2017.3072Koochakpoor G, Salari-Moghaddam A, Keshteli AH, Esmaillzadeh A, Adibi P.Association of coffee and caffeine intake with irritable bowel syndrome in adults.Front Nutr. 2021;8:632469. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.632469Cozma-Petruţ A, Loghin F, Miere D, Dumitraşcu DL.Diet in irritable bowel syndrome: what to recommend, not what to forbid to patients!.World J Gastroenterol. 2017;23(21):3771-3783. doi:10.3748/wjg.v23.i21.3771Ford AC, Moayyedi P, Chey WD, et al.American College of Gastroenterology monograph on management of irritable bowel syndrome.Am J Gastroenterol.2018;113(Suppl 2):1-18. doi:10.1038/s41395-018-0084-x
Hopkins Medicine.5 Foods to avoid if you have IBS.
Nanayakkara WS, Skidmore PM, O’Brien L, Wilkinson TJ, Gearry RB.Efficacy of the low FODMAP diet for treating irritable bowel syndrome: the evidence to date.Clin Exp Gastroenterol. 2016;9:131-142. doi:10.2147/CEG.S86798
Xiong L, Wang Y, Gong X, Chen M.Prevalence of lactose intolerance in patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome: data from a tertiary center in southern China.J Health Popul Nutr. 2017;36(1):38. doi:10.1186/s41043-017-0113-1
Monash University.FODMAPs and irritable bowel syndrome.
Monash University.Low FODMAP diet.
Bell V, Ferrao J, Pimentel L, Pintado M, Fernandes T.One Health, fermented foods, and gut microbiota.Foods. 2018;7(12):195. doi:10.3390/foods7120195
El-Salhy M, Ystad SO, Mazzawi T, Gundersen D.Dietary fiber in irritable bowel syndrome (review).Int J Mol Med. 2017;40(3):607-613. doi:10.3892/ijmm.2017.3072
Koochakpoor G, Salari-Moghaddam A, Keshteli AH, Esmaillzadeh A, Adibi P.Association of coffee and caffeine intake with irritable bowel syndrome in adults.Front Nutr. 2021;8:632469. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.632469
Cozma-Petruţ A, Loghin F, Miere D, Dumitraşcu DL.Diet in irritable bowel syndrome: what to recommend, not what to forbid to patients!.World J Gastroenterol. 2017;23(21):3771-3783. doi:10.3748/wjg.v23.i21.3771
Ford AC, Moayyedi P, Chey WD, et al.American College of Gastroenterology monograph on management of irritable bowel syndrome.Am J Gastroenterol.2018;113(Suppl 2):1-18. doi:10.1038/s41395-018-0084-x
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