Coconut oil for IBS. Good or bad?

Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal benefits, and a reputation for helping gut health.

But, by definition IBS does not involve inflammation or a fungal overgrowth.

So does eating coconut oil help IBS?

Nope. And it might actually set off symptoms. Why?

Coconut oil is pure saturated fat, and all fats are GI stimulants.

With IBS, fats can trigger your gastrocolic reflex to overreact.

Result? Spasms, cramps, diarrhea, gas, rebound constipation, or all of the above.

A low fat - NOT fat free - diet is important for keeping IBS calm.

But choose unsaturated heart-healthy plant or fish oils, never large quantities, and always with a soluble fiber foundation to keep bowel function stable.

Coconut cream, coconut milk, and shredded coconut are also very high fat. Limit these or just avoid. Coconut water is virtually fat free, but it does have some FODMAPS.

Tip! One of my favorite IBS flavor bombs is to mimic rich coconut milk in recipes by adding coconut extract (at grocery stores by the vanilla extract) to soy, rice, oat or other non dairy milks.

Tip Takeaway: Use coconut oil in small amounts only, always with your soluble fiber foundation foods, just as you would all other plant fats. It’s much more likely to hurt IBS than to help it.

And get more IBS diet questions and answers…

You are not alone.

P.S. If you have any questions or comments I’d love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.

XOXO
Heather

If you need immediate help please join my Private IBS Coaching.

XOXO
Heather

Heather Van Vorous
40+ years of IBS advocacy
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