How Dairy May Affect IBS (and What to Eat Instead)

Before getting a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), many people assume they are simply lactose intolerant. Dairy products are one of the most common trigger foods among people with IBS, and it may be one of the first foods that lead people to wonder if there’s something wrong with them. (Keep in mind that lactose intolerance and IBS symptoms can overlap but have distinct causes.)

Luckily, there are many alternatives in today’s grocery stores. If dairy triggers your IBS, you have lots of ways to deal with it. If you feel like dairy troubles are limiting your diet, talk to a registered dietitian.

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Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Brian Clista, MD

Dr. Clista is a board-certified pediatrician who works in private practice in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He previously served as a National Health Service Corporation Scholar in the inner city of Pittsburgh for 11 years.

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