Written for World IBS Day
Are you one of the 1 in 7 Australians who live with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
If so, you’ll know it’s not just a “tummy ache.” It’s unpredictable, frustrating and — at its worst — debilitating. It can make planning your day a challenge and impact everything from social plans to work meetings. Some days your gut feels relatively normal, other days you’re stuck at home with cramps, bloating or running to the bathroom.
And while IBS isn’t life-threatening, it can seriously affect quality of life — physically, mentally, and socially.
What is IBS?
IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, which means the structure of your gut looks normal, but how it functions is disrupted. Common symptoms include:
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Abdominal pain or cramping
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Bloating and excess wind
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Diarrhoea and/or constipation (sometimes alternating)
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An urgent need to go to the toilet
IBS is often diagnosed after other conditions (like Coeliac Disease or Inflammatory Bowel Disease) are ruled out. That’s why you should never self-diagnose — start by seeing your GP, and request a referral to a gastroenterologist to get a clear, evidence-based diagnosis.
The IBS Survival Guide
1. See a qualified health professional
That’s your GP, gastroenterologist, and ideally, an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) who specialises in gastrointestinal health. They'll help you identify triggers and manage symptoms without guesswork.
According to the Dietitians Australia 3 in 4 people see improvements in IBS symptoms within weeks of adopting a low-FODMAP diet.
2. Trial (but don’t DIY) a Low FODMAP Diet
FODMAPs are fermentable carbohydrates that can cause IBS symptoms in some people. The Low FODMAP diet, developed by researchers at Monash University, is an elimination diet used to identify individual triggers.
This isn’t meant to be followed long-term, and should always be guided by a dietitian.
3. Mind your stress and sleep
Gut-brain connection is real. Stress, anxiety and poor sleep can significantly worsen IBS symptoms. Mindfulness, gentle exercise, breathwork, and speaking to a psychologist can all help. This is not in your head — it’s your nervous system influencing your gut.
4. Ease the pressure — meal planning included
When life gets full-on, having easy, gut-friendly meals on hand can help prevent flare-ups triggered by rushed choices or takeaways full of onion, garlic or other common culprits.
That’s where We Feed You can help. Our Low FODMAP and gluten-free meals are Low FODMAP certified by Monash University and endorsed by Coeliac Australia, and packed with nutrition — not mystery ingredients.
✅ Ready in 6 minutes from freezer to table.
Final thoughts
IBS is real. It's frustrating. But with the right support, it's manageable — and your life can be full, fun and (mostly) predictable again.
This World IBS Day, let’s raise awareness, reduce stigma, and help more people get the support they deserve.
Low FODMAP range: https://www.wefeedyou.com.au/collections/low-fodmap-meals
Gluten free range: https://www.wefeedyou.com.au/collections/gluten-free-meals
