What dietary modification should a nurse recommend for a client with inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Increasing the intake of dietary fiber is a beneficial recommendation for clients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Fiber plays a crucial role in promoting healthy bowel function; it can help regulate bowel movements by adding bulk to the stool, which can alleviate symptoms such as constipation commonly associated with IBS. In some cases, soluble fiber can also aid in managing diarrhea by absorbing excess fluid and forming a gel-like substance in the intestines. It is important for individuals to increase their fiber intake gradually to prevent exacerbation of symptoms, as a sudden increase can lead to bloating and discomfort.

While avoiding high-fat foods can be helpful for some individuals, it is not as universally applicable as increasing dietary fiber. High-fat foods can potentially worsen IBS symptoms, but not all patients will have the same reactions. The recommendation to eliminate all lactose-containing products may be appropriate for those who have a specific sensitivity to lactose, but not all IBS patients are lactose intolerant. Lastly, incorporating probiotics may be beneficial for gut health, yet scientific evidence on their efficacy for IBS symptoms continues to evolve, and they are not as universally recommended as dietary fiber.