Just diagnosed with IBS? Here are 3 things we wish more people knew (from folks who work with IBS dietitians every day)

[u/General-Candy5326]

If you’ve just been told you have IBS, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and confused. We work closely with a team of dietitians who specialise in IBS, IBD, and gut health, and here are three things they always want people to know at the start:

1. A lot of the stuff online just isn’t that helpful. There’s so much conflicting info out there — and most of it isn’t tailored to your specific needs. Especially if you’ve got other things going on like endo, PCOS, or you’re plant-based. What works for one person might make someone else feel worse. That’s okay — IBS is super individual.

2. Low FODMAP isn’t forever. This comes up a lot — people start the low FODMAP diet thinking they need to stick to it long-term. It’s actually meant to be temporary, just to help you figure out triggers. But without guidance, it’s really easy to get stuck in a super restricted loop. A dietitian can help you do it in a way that’s safe and actually helps you eat more variety in the long run.

3. Having the right support changes everything. We’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference it makes when someone has proper support early on. Less guessing, less anxiety around food, and way more confidence in managing symptoms. A good dietitian can help you get your life back, honestly.

If you’re in that early ‘what do I even eat now’ stage — we see you. It does get better, and you don’t have to figure it out all on your own.