Irritable bowel syndrome can be a frustrating and embarrassing condition. People who have never experienced irritable bowel syndrome do not understand the immense pain and suffering caused by it. While many medications can help control irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, many sufferers find substantial relief by simply modifying their diets. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are varied. They are all uncomfortable. The most common symptoms include bloating, stomach cramping, constipation, and diarrhea. Some sufferers experience mucus in their stools due to inflammation in the lining of the small and large intestines. Many people with irritable bowel syndrome have noticed that their symptoms are worsened by exposure to specific foods. These foods are often referred to as "trigger foods." Common trigger foods are tomatoes and other nightshade vegetables, garlic, fatty foods, and Carbonated Beverages. For some sufferers, drinking just one can of soda pop can set off a flare up of painful irritable bowel syndrome symptoms that can last for days on end. The simplest way for a person to alleviate irritable bowel symptoms is to eliminate trigger foods from his or her diet. Keeping a food diary can help sufferers identify which foods are trigger foods for them. A food that bothers one person might not bother another. Some sufferers find that they can still indulge in some trigger foods in moderation. The safest approach is to indulge in a small amount of a trigger food after first eating a fair amount of non-trigger food at the same meal. Science is starting to demonstrate that fiber plays a big role in irritable bowel syndrome. Insoluble fiber can cause some people's symptoms to flare up. On the other hand, soluble fiber can alleviate symptoms. Soluble fiber aids in regularity and helps the digestive process. By making sure to include copious amounts of soluble fiber in their diets, many sufferers find significant relief from their irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. When starting a fiber regimen, it is important not to overdo it at the beginning. It takes time to adjust to new fiber levels, so sufferers should start with small amounts. Then they can gradually increase the amounts until they achieve the best results.