There is no way to prevent IBS from occurring. But if you have IBS, there are some things you can do that may help prevent your symptoms from getting worse. Avoid the following things that have been associated with a worsening of IBS symptoms:

• large meals
• wheat, rye, barley, chocolate, milk products, or alcohol
• drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, or colas
• insufficient water intake
• stress, conflict, or emotional upsets

Because it is nearly impossible to avoid stress, there are several things you can do to help manage stress instead. Counseling sessions with a psychologist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional may be able to help you learn techniques for stress reduction and stress management. Regular exercise, yoga, massage or meditation can also be effective stress reducers. Biofeedback, relaxation exercises, or deep breathing techniques can help you learn how to relax your body and control stressful feelings when they arise.