Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Heather, I know you're not a doc, but...

Hi Ruchie - I don't think it's a good idea. One of the key things about managing IBS is that it depends on consistency. You need to do lots of boring things on a daily basis, some things all day long (keep your gut filled with soluble fiber, plenty of water, helpful herbal teas, exercise, stress management, enough sleep, etc.). Fasting is a serious disruption in a pattern of stability, and it can cause problems. The emptier your stomach is the more likely you are to have an over-reaction from foods that are eventually put into it. Plus, the more likely you are to overeat, because you'll be so hungry.

If you can opt-out of this with your rabbi's blessing, that's what I'd do. IBS is a legitimate medical disorder and fasting is harmful for people with IBS.

If you have to fast, definitely don't restrict your fluid intake and at least keep taking your soluble fiber supplement (I guess I'm assuming that would be permitted since it's not food).

Since you're still struggling to stabilize in the first place, I really wouldn't throw a wrench into things at this point. If fasting (or coming off the fast - that's the really risky time) causes problems it could set off days of symptoms and then you're battling to get right back to where you were.

Best,
Heather

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Heather is the Administrator of the IBS Message Boards. She is the author of Eating for IBS and The First Year: IBS, and the CEO of Heather's Tummy Care. Join her IBS Newsletter. Meet Heather on Facebook!

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