Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Sweetd:

I believe the reason IBS people have problems with milk is because milk (even skim milk) contains too much fat and is difficult to digest. Taking lactose pills won't solve your problem if you have IBS. You need to stay away from milk and products containing milk altogether.

Some IBS people can tolerate foods containing small amounts of milk products (such as soy cheese which contains casein), but I can't tolerate anything containing a milk product. I would pay dearly for it if I tried, and I gave up trying a long time ago!

In terms of your social eating question, well, unfortunately, the safest thing to do is to bring your own food. I bring my own sandwiches, which I pack in an insulated lunch container with ice packs. I also bring my own home-baked IBS-safe banana bread and apple bread so I won't be done out of dessert. It's a good idea to bring your own beverages too, so I bring my own unless the host tells me in advance bottled water will be available.

I have long since given up gambling on food at a party or dinner gathering. And, over the years, I have tired of giving special instructions to my friends on what I can and cannot have. It's easiest and safest all around to just bring my own food. That way I can enjoy the party worry free with no ill effects afterwards. (I also get more invitations this way -- since I am a cheap guest!)

As you get more experienced in learning to control your IBS symptoms, you will realize that bringing your own food is by far the wisest thing to do.

Belinda

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