Hi Debbie,
I have ulcerative colitis (similar to IBS except that with U.C. bleeding ulcers are present on the lining of the lower intestine). I think that any of these intestinal illnesses are stubborn and take time and perserverance to find out how to control the symptoms. I have been on the NSD diet for 6 weeks and it helps but I have had to further modify it for the time being since I am in U.C. flare-up mode (it seems to be healing but have to make sure I give it time) Everyone is different, but I will mention what I have to watch out for during flare ups.
I am o,k, with mild coffee and tea (black no milk) but cannot take dairy or alcohol.
I can eat most meat but beef causes constipation. I mostly eat fish and chicken, and cold cuts that contain no starch.
Salads are good, no cooked vegetables. Two pieces of fruit per day (any more is too much) apples, grapes, or raisins. No fruit juice. Not too much sugar (I seem to be o.k. with occasional starch-free sweet indulgences)
For me the key is to keep the diet simple while in flare-up. Small frequents meals, chew food well, relax while eating all help in digestive process.
My typical day:
Breakfast: Apple, 1/2 can of salmon, cup of mild tea.
Snack: Cup of mild coffee with two mejool dates.
Lunch: Spinach, carrot, cucumber, chicken salad with vinegar/oil dressing. Apple for dessert if still hungry.
Snack: Apple (if not eaten at lunchtime) or small piece of halvah.
Dinner: Baked haddock, field greens, radish, carrot salad.
I drink as much water as I can throughout the day.
I think it is also important to avoid nuts until your system has healed. They can irritate the lining of the intestine (if it is not in a healthy state).
Supplements are important also, I take EFA's, Probiotic, glutamine, Triphala (an Ayurvedic intestinal formula--helpful if you are prone to constipation but not recommended if you are more prone to loose stool), sauerkraut juice.
Hope you feel better soon,
H
