IBS or intolerance?

BACKGROUND The contribution of specific foods to the genesis of symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has been increasingly recognised in recent years. OBJECTIVE This article discusses the dietary triggers for IBS and the role of diagnostic testing in patients with IBS. DISCUSSION In addition to the long standing implication of lactose in lactase deficient patients, fermentable dietary oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols, together with very low carbohydrate diets, have been increasingly recognised as important in the causation and treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Understanding their role and utilising the services of a practising dietician have become additional important tools for general practitioners managing this common complaint.