My Story: My Doctors Said Diet Didn't Matter. They Were Wrong

My first bout with IBS was in college when my digestion was a mess, and I had such bad reflux that I lost a considerable amount of weight. Ever since, managing my stress and digestion has been a constant struggle. Every doctor from whom I sought advice told me the same thing: “Many people have IBS. It is completely normal. No, you don’t have to change anything about your diet or lifestyle.” It wasn’t until a few years ago that I noticed a new and troubling IBS symptom: the fog brain. I wasn’t seeing clearly, my energy was low, I was depressed, and my brain just didn’t feel as quick and spry. I lived like this for two years, afraid to really know what was wrong. After I learned of a correlation between gut health and dementia (Alzheimer’s runs in my family), I felt the urgency to figure out what was going on once and for all. Through a food elimination diet, I realized that I had a leaky gut and my body was a mess. It was a very hard transition to completely change my diet, even though I have always been a healthy, conscientious eater. My current FODMAP elimination diet took time and a lot of discipline (and tears!) to stick with, but my digestion is finally normal. I no longer get headaches or brain fog, cramps or stomach aches, and I no longer need naps. I’m also finally delivering much needed nutrients to my blood and throughout my body. It's amazing how lifestyle and diet changes can dramatically improve IBS symptoms. It is now my goal to teach others how to do this effortlessly (and hopefully with no tears), by choosing a variety of ingredients, getting ample fiber, maximum taste, and enough satisfying calories. I hope you enjoy some of my favorite recipes. Here are some of Rebecca's IBS friendly, low-FODMAP recipes: Sweet Potato Crusted, Sausage “Quiche” Casserole Naturally Low-Sugar Tahini Cookies Pulled Chicken Wraps with Orange Jicama Salad Rutabaga Turnip Salad with Salmon and Capers Note: PLEASE consult with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or medications. The material on this site is provided for educational purposes only, and is not to be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.