Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), stomach pain, IBS, bloating, distension, gas, diarrhoea, constipation

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Dietitians

Learn what IBS is, what causes it and how to manage the condition

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What we can do

The IBS problem

Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) means navigating unpredictable symptoms like bloating, pain, and fatigue, often feeling like you have to guess which foods are safe. 

At REAL Health & Nutrition in Eltham, our Accredited Practising Dietitians understand how exhausting this trial-and-error process can be. 

We don’t just hand you a generic meal plan; we provide evidence-based, compassionate care designed to help you regain control of your digestion and your life.

Our REAL solution

Supporting clients across Melbourne’s North-East, our specialist IBS dietitians utilise evidence-basedMedical Nutrition Therapy, including structured Low-FODMAP protocols, personalised food chemical sensitivity dietary assessements and appropriate over the counter supplementation/ medication recommendations to improve your qualtiy of life

Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been struggling with symptoms for years without relief, we work closely with you to identify your unique triggers and build a sustainable, symptom-free diet without unnecessary restrictions.

How is IBS treated?

There are various treatments available to help manage IBS symptoms.

While IBS cannot usually be cured, treatments can dramatically reduce discomfort and improve your quality of life. Once your diagnosis has been confirmed by a doctor, treatment will be tailored to your symptoms and triggers.

In most cases, non-pharmacological or “natural” approaches are effective in managing symptoms. Common strategies include:

  • Dietary interventions (where we help the most)
    • Low FODMAP diet: dietary adjustment and 3 phase FODMAP approach
    • Altering fibre intake: Some people may be sensitive to some fibres
    • Histamine or salicylate dietary adjustment
    • Systematic elimination diet protocol and reintroduction
  • Stress management
    • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
    • Gut-brain therapy
  • Lifestyle changes
    • Eating regular, nutrient-dense meals
    • Regular exercise
    • Consistent and high-quality sleep
  • Alternate strategies
    • Specific probiotic strains 
    • Personalised supplementation
    • Medications (constipation, diarrhoea or psychological support)

Finding a treatment that works for you may take time and often involves multiple lengthy trials. With professional support, our REAL Dietitians can shorten that time and help you feeling better, quicker! 

Common treatment options for IBS - Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatments. 1. Dietary interventions. 2. Stress Management. 3. Lifestyle changes. 4. Other options such as medication and specific supplements

-Infographic by Nicole George, Nutritionist

Why Choose REAL for Supporting Your IBS symptoms?

At REAL Health & Nutrition, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between a calm gut and enjoying the foods you love.

Our Melbourne-based Accredited Practising Dietitians use evidence-based Medical Nutrition Therapy to help you navigate IBS, reduce daily discomfort, and finally feel in control of your body again.

Realistic nutrition solutions

REAL Health & Nutrition was founded in Melbourne by Matthew Rigoni alongside a passionate team that provides evidence-based nutrition strategies that fit into your life.

Our diverse clientele includes individuals seeking to manage chronic disease, enhance their energy, and those aiming to improve their healthspan and longevity through sustainable health and nutrition strategies.

Matthew Rigoni, expert Dietitian and sports dietitian- REAL Health & Nutrition

Who to see and when

When should you see a Doctor for IBS?

Many people may experience IBS-like symptoms occasionally, but it’s important to know when to see your doctor.

If you experience bowel habit changes, unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool, or if other symptoms persist for more than four weeks, it is advisable to see your GP to assess for IBS and exclude other conditions.

When should you see a Dietitian for IBS?

See an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) if you:

  • Have been diagnosed with IBS and want to learn how to manage your symptoms and identify specific food triggers.
  • Have been following a diet such as the low FODMAP diet, but don’t experience relief.
  • Need to restrict multiple foods and are concerned about nutrient deficiencies.
  • Experience poor appetite or unintentional weight loss.
  • Would like to optimise nutrition to improve health-span and longevity

Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) are experts who can provide evidence-based, personalised advice and help you find a symptom-friendly diet.

Practitioners

Meet the team

Highly skilled and qualified Dietitians and Sport Nutritionists

  • Matthew Rigoni Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD), sport Nutritionist, Accredited Sport Dietitian (ASD)

    Matthew Rigoni

    Head Dietitian (APD) & Sports Nutritionist

    Matthew Rigoni is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist supporting clients across Eltham, Diamond Creek and Melbourne’s North-East. He specialises in weight management, chronic disease care, IBS/low-FODMAP nutrition, and sports-performance nutrition. His approach focuses on evidence-based, realistic strategies tailored to each client’s health goals. Matthew also brings experience in strength training and rehabilitation, helping clients build long-term, sustainable habits.

  • Max Dennehy Dietitian, body building coach

    Max Dennehy

    Dietitian and Bodybuilding Coach

    Max Dennehy is a qualified Dietitian with strong expertise in sports nutrition, weight loss, muscle gain and body recomposition. He has more than seven years of hands-on experience in bodybuilding and strength training, blending clinical nutrition with practical performance coaching. Max supports clients managing chronic conditions, improving metabolic health, and achieving body-composition goals. His coaching style is structured and supportive, helping clients stay consistent and confident.

  • Emma Westlake Accredited Sports Nutritionist

    Emma Westlake

    Accredited Sports Nutritionist

    Emma Westlake is a Nutritionist and Accredited Sports Nutritionist with experience in athletic performance, endurance nutrition, injury recovery and rehabilitation. She brings a strong background in Biomedical Science and works with clients to improve energy, health and long-term wellbeing. Emma has supported athletes across AFL/AFLW, triathlon and running communities, offering clear and practical guidance. Her passion lies in helping active individuals optimise performance through personalised, evidence-based nutrition.

Learn more about our practitioners

Qualifcations, profesional interests and why they're unique!

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

IBS is a common chronic condition that present with pain, bloating distention or other symptoms in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

It is a functional disorder, which means there are no detectable signs of damage in the digestive tract.

IBS is diagnosed by exclusion, meaning that coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and endometriosis are to be ruled out with symptoms still present before diagnosis.

There are four main types of IBS, classified by the pattern of bowel habits:

1. IBS with diarrhoea (IBS-D) – Frequent loose, watery stools

2. IBS with constipation (IBS-C) – Hard stools that are difficult to pass

3. Mixed IBS (IBS-M) – Alternating between diarrhoea and constipation

4. Unclassified IBS (IBS-U) – Symptoms may vary

Common IBS Symptoms image including abdominal pai/cramping, bloating and gas, alterations in stool shape or consistency, changes in bowel movement frequency, diarrhea, constipation

-Infographic by Nicole George, Nutritionist

What causes IBS?

The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood. 

IBS is generally considered to be multifactorial and influenced by a combination of factors, including:

  • Disruptions in the gut-brain axis (communication between your gut and brain via the vagus nerve)
  • Digestive dysfunction
  • Visceral hypersensitivity (Increased gut sensitivity, more common in people with neurodivergence)
  • Dysbiosis in the microbiome (excess or limited of specific gut bacteria)
  • Post-infection gut health & microbiome changes
  • Genetic factors
  • Increased gut permeability or “leaky gut”
  • Food sensitivities &/or intolerances
  • Stress, anxiety and psychological stimulation

About IBS

How is IBS diagnosed?

The Rome 4 criteria is the standard diagnostic tool currently in use and must include all of the following, where applicable:

  • Abdominal pain at least 4 days per month over at least 2 months associated with one or more of the following:
    • Related to defecation
    • A change in the frequency of stool
    • A change in the form (appearance) of stool

*Criteria fulfilled for the last 3 months with symptom onset at least 6 months prior to diagnosis

In children with abdominal pain and constipation, the pain does not resolve with the resolution of the constipation (children in whom the pain resolves have functional constipation, not IBS)

After appropriate evaluation, the symptoms cannot be fully explained by another medical condition

How common is IBS?

IBS is a common condition in Australia and worldwide.

  • IBS affects around 11% of the population globally.
  • In Australia, it affects about 30% of Australians.
  • It is more common in women than in men.
  • It often develops before the age of 40.
  • People with endometriosis have a 60% chance of having IBS as well.

Bristol stool chart (poo form chart)

If you are struggling with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), keeping track of your digestion can feel overwhelming. 

The Bristol Stool Chart (courtesy of The Rome Foundation)is a clinical diagnostic tool designed to help you and your healthcare team classify the shape and consistency of your bowel movements into seven distinct categories.

Click the + sign for the image. Made just in case anyone is eating lunch! 

Rome IV (4) Bristol stool chart stool form scale. Type 1 seperate hard lumps like nuts to Type 7 watery, no solid pieces.
Bristol stool form scale -Rome foundation IV. Multiple classes for Rome IV IBS subtypes, IBS-C type 1,2 BSC. IBS-U, IBS-M, IBS-D Type 6-7

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This commitment ensures you always receive the most current, evidence-based nutrition guidance available.

Frequently Asked IBS Questions

Questions for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

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    IBS is a chronic condition, which means it is a long-term condition over which the symptoms can come and go.

    While there is currently no one “cure”, symptoms can be managed through dietary changes, stress management, and if required, medication.

    Technically, no. IBS is not considered a life-threatening condition.

    However, it can significantly affect quality of life, with the correct management, most people can keep their symptoms under control and maintain normal day-to-day activities.

    IBS symptoms do not cause permanent damage to the digestive tract.

    You may have IBS if you experience ongoing symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel habits for several weeks or longer.

    As these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, it is important to see a doctor for a diagnosis which we work alongside to ensure you are getting the best care possible

    IBS does not directly lead to serious health conditions like colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (inflammation of the digestion tract that often causes tissue damage), or colitis (inflammation of the large intestine lining).

    However, since IBS symptoms can be similar to other digestive disorders, you should consult a doctor if your symptoms change or worsen.

    See an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) if you:

    • Have been diagnosed with IBS and want to learn how to manage your symptoms and identify specific food triggers.
    • Have been following a diet such as the low FODMAP diet, but don’t experience relief.
    • Need to restrict multiple foods and are concerned about nutrient deficiencies.
    • Experience poor appetite or unintentional weight loss.
    • Would like to optimise nutrition to improve health-span and longevity

    Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) are experts who can provide evidence-based, personalised advice and help you find a symptom-friendly diet.

    There is no single list of trigger foods that applies to everyone, as IBS is highly individual. However, there are several common foods and drinks that frequently cause bloating, cramping, and unpredictable bowel habits.

    The most common IBS triggers include:

    • High-FODMAP Foods: Specific fermentable carbohydrates found in everyday foods like garlic, onions, wheat, cow’s milk (lactose), and certain fruits (like apples and watermelon).
    • Caffeine: Coffee, tea, and energy drinks can overstimulate the digestive tract, often worsening diarrhea (IBS-D).

    • Spicy, Fatty, or Fried Foods: High-fat and heavily spiced meals can alter gut motility and trigger painful abdominal cramping.

    • Alcohol: Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining and disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to flare-ups.

    • Artificial Sweeteners: Sugar alcohols like sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol (often found in sugar-free gums and diet drinks) are well-known causes of excessive gas and bloating.

    • Specific food chemical sensitivities: Natural chemicals such as histamines and Salicylates commonly occur in food and is a growing area of research with unclear guidelines/ food composition databases.

    Because trigger foods are unique to your body, we do not recommend highly restrictive elimination diets on your own.

    An Accredited Practising Dietitian can help you methodically test and identify your exact triggers, using tools like the temporary Low FODMAP diet, so you can enjoy as much food freedom as possible

    Yes. The gut and the brain are directly connected through the gut-brain axis. When you experience stress or anxiety, it can change how quickly food moves through your digestive tract and increase your gut’s sensitivity to pain.

    This is why a holistic IBS management plan often combines dietary changes with stress-management techniques to achieve the best long-term relief.

Extra reading

Camilleri, M. (2001). Management of the irritable bowel syndrome.
Gastroenterology, 652-668. doi:https://doi.org/10.1053/gast.2001.21908

Canavan, C., West, J., & Card, T. (2014, February 4). The epidemiology of irritable bowel syndrome. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology, 71-80. doi:10.2147/CLEP.S40245

DietitiansAustralia. (2023, April). Diet and nutrition health advice: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Retrieved from Dietitians Australia: https://dietitiansaustralia.org.au/health-advice/irritable-bowel-syndromeibs#anchor-field-see-dietitian

Drossman, D. A. (2016). Functional gastrointestinal disorders: History, pathophysiology, clinical features and Rome IV. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1262–1279. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.032

Gibson, P. R., & Shepherd, S. J. (2010). Evidence-based dietary management of functional gastrointestinal symptoms: The FODMAP approach. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 25(2), 252–258. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1746.2009.06149.x

HealthDirect. (2024, December). Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Retrieved from Health Direct: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs#doctor

Lacy, B. E., Mearin, F., Chang, L., Chey, W. D., Lembo, A. J., Simren, M., & Spiller, R. (2016). Bowel disorders. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1393–1407. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.031

Monash University. (n.d.). The Monash University Low FODMAP Diet. https://www.monashfodmap.com/

NIH. (2017, November). Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Retrieved from NIDDK: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome

Soares, R. L. (2014). Irritable bowel syndrome: A clinical review. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 12144– 12160. doi:10.3748/wjg.v20.i34.12144

Sulaimi, F., Ong, T. S., Tang, A. S., Quek, J., Pillay, R. M., Low, D. T, Ng, Q. X. (2025, February 21). Risk factors for developing irritable bowel syndrome: systematic umbrella review of reviews. BMC Medicine. doi:10.1186/s12916-025-03930-5