Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

We're glad you found us! I'm sorry you have been in so much pain. Believe me, I have been there, done that, and felt that same way! It does get better. First thing I would suggest is dumping that Metamucil. It can cause horrible bloating and gas. (don't know why they even make that stuff.) Buy you a big can of Citrucel and drink some in water before each meal. Between meals, drink lots of water, then more water, and more water because that will make the Citrucel work. See how easy this is! Gradually increase your dose. Don't be afraid to take too much. You may need to take Heather's recommended daily maximum for it to work.
(If I don't use 3 T. a day, I have problems.)
As for the diet, you will get used to it. In the beginning, I would cut out salads completely. Too much raw roughage on your tummy. Later, when you are stabliized, you may can eat them at the end of a meal. Right now, concentrate on having some insoluble fiber with the soluble fiber (you must have both kinds for IBS-C), cut out any fried foods, dairy (which you already have), and drink your herbal teas. I also down several peppermint Altoids whole after each meal and that helps me.
I will tell you that a lot of us IBS-C people got worse at first because we were afraid to eat any insoluble fiber. You CANNOT just eat the soluble stuff (white bread, oatmeal, pasta, rice) or you really will be doubled over in pain. Just combine the two fibers, drink your Citrucel and you should be much better soon! Good luck and let us know if you have any questions.

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