Finding information on IBS and yogurt can be difficult since there is so much conflicting information. Some research has shown that probiotics can improve the symptoms of gas, pain and bloating associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Certain probiotics can also decrease the time it takes for food to move through the intestine, which may be helpful in people with constipation. In people with IBS who have diarrhea, probiotics may decrease the frequency of loose stools. Many individuals have reported success in controlling and even completely relieving their IBS symptoms by adding a probiotic rich food source to their diet.

However, researchers are still not sure about recommending probiotics to IBS sufferers. Because diet is so important, it is still recommended that people with IBS consult their physicians before making dietary changes.

Probiotic therapy is a new and rapidly growing area of medical research and seems to show some promise as a possible treatment for IBS. Although there has been no known adverse reactions to using probiotics, I tend to feel safer getting my probiotics by consuming healthy foods. Yogurt is a great food that many people have found to help a myriad of digestive problems.

Dannon's Activia brand claims to give great results to individuals seeking to improve regularity and decrease IBS symptoms. I tend to think that homemade yogurt will give even better results, given the fact it is fresher.

Find out why fresh yogurt is a better source of probiotics than any store-bought yogurt

Using Yogurt to Improve the Digestibility of Grains

A hidden culprit many IBS sufferers never suspect is improperly prepared whole grains. Many sufferers are encouraged to increase roughage in the diet. It is a common practice to consume large amounts of unprocessed bran to improve colon transit time. This may seem to improve symptoms for a while, but long term can worsen IBS.

Using yogurt and whey to soak whole grains in before cooking can make a huge difference in their digestibility. The proteins in grains are very difficult to digest especially grains that are high in gluten. Even more destructive to the human digestive tract is phytic acid which is present in the outer layer of all grains. Phytic acid combines with calcium, phosphorus, iron and zinc in the intestinal tract and blocks their absorption. The result can be a loss in bone density and mineral deficiencies. Perhaps this is why so many cultures around the world have long practiced the tradition of soaking or fermenting grains. In fact even up until about thirty years ago, boxes of Quaker oatmeal listed soaking overnight in the instructions. Lactobacilli in yogurt break down and neutralize phytic acid. So soaking oats or other grains in water with about a tablespoon of yogurt will greatly improved digestibility and nutrient absorption. You can also use whey (the liquid in yogurt that you strain off).

The Lowdown About IBS and Yogurt

Try adding yogurt or other probiotic rich food into your diet, but don't waste your time on yogurt brands that don't even contain live and active cultures (check carton for contains live and active cultures seal). Even better make your own yogurt!

Ask your doctor about a probiotic supplement, if might be the easiest way to improve symptoms. However, it is unlikely that a supplement alone can relieve IBS. A change in diet will probably be necessary.

Definitely reconsider the role whole grains play in your diet. If you consume a lot of whole grains find out more about soaking and fermenting grain to pre-digest the proteins that can be hard on your digestive system.

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