April is National IBS Awareness Month

IBS is a group of symptoms that effects over 30 million people in the USA. The Mayo Clinic says that symptoms can vary from person to person but often include abdominal pain, cramping, a bloated feeling, gas, mucus in the stool, and diarrhea or constipation, and sometimes with alternative bouts of each. It’s important to consultant a physician when more serious symptoms such as rectal bleeding, sharpening abdominal pain and weight loss.

Coffee, garlic, wheat and dairy products are common triggers for IBS. Just because a food is bland does not automatically mean it is safe for IBS sufferers, however. Fermentable carbs, known as FODMAP foods are also common triggers, so the Low FODMAP diet is recommended by Stanford Hospital and Clinic. Additionally, adding more fiber and eating smaller meals may help IBS symptoms. Find more flavor with low-FODMAP herbs and spices from our bulk section: basil, fenugreek, ginger, mustard seeds, chili and black pepper, and turmeric.