Women who have IBS may notice symptoms during their menstrual periods. Your doctor may start by asking you questions about your symptoms. If your symptoms have had a pattern over time, the pattern may make it clear to your doctor that IBS is the cause. If your symptoms have just started, something else may be the cause. The best way to handle IBS is to eat a healthy diet, avoid foods that seem to make you feel worse and find ways to handle your stress.
Fiber can be helpful because it improves how the intestines work.
Soluble fiber helps both diarrhea and constipation. Insoluble fiber may make diarrhea worse. Insoluble fiber is in fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads and cereals. Oat bran is in some cereals, bread or muffins. You can also add it to other foods.