Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine. If you have IBS, you can experience abdominal cramps, and you also can experience intense pain. You could have more than usual gas issues, diarrhea, or constipation. IBS affects more than 200 million people each year, and you are not alone if being impacted. Fortunately, you can enjoy the following foods that will help ease the impact of your IBS symptoms:

1. Water
Water is an essential item for an IBS diet, and you must have it. You should not be drinking large amounts of coffee, so refrain from drinking too much soda, coffee, and energy drinks. Drinks containing artificial sweeteners can make your IBS worse, too. As a general rule of thumb, you should have eight glasses of water each day. Your body needs water for all parts of your body to function the right way, and that includes your digestive system.

2. Salmon
When it comes to foods for IBS symptoms and you need a protein, most proteins will be okay for you. However, salmon has Omega-3 fatty acids known to target inflammation. Since inflammation makes IBS symptoms worse, you should consider adding this lean protein to your diet.

3. Yogurt
Not only can you find yogurt in various flavors and serving options, but you can also enjoy it throughout your day. Try enjoying it at breakfast, for an afternoon snack or for dessert in the evening. It is loaded with probiotics that are considered good bacteria, and those probiotics are known to help digestive systems work better.

4. Oatmeal
You might be encouraged to take on a low FODMAP diet. If this is the case, you could try to eat more oatmeal at breakfast or turn to oat bread for your sandwiches or for your dinner bread. Fiber can sometimes make IBS worse, but oats contain soluble fiber that can help you, especially if you have diarrhea.

5. Pretzels
Some of the foods you snack on during your day can cause IBS issues to be worse than they have to be for you. If you are looking for a great snack option that will not make your IBS worse, you should consider pretzels. Pretzels will be light on your stomach and help keep it full without making you sick. You can also enjoy them in various sizes and flavors.