[errantbehavior]

Is it normal to experience gas, cramps, and possibly diarrhea from adding more fiber to your diet? It hasn't been all at once- I've been counting calories for 4-5 months now, which means more fruit/veggies/grains. For the past few weeks the cramps seem to be getting worse though- once or twice a day for a few hours.

I've been eating more whole foods lately.. could that have something to do with it?

[mandalinn82]

Oh yes.

Your body is used to a certain amount of fiber. If you up that amount significantly overnight, you are going to have some stomach upset. If you have significantly increased your fiber in the past few weeks, this is to be expected.

If your diet hasn't changed but your stomach problems have increased, you may want to check with a doctor to make sure everything is OK. Also, please see a doctor if the issue doesn't resolve itself in a couple of days.

[fiberlover]

Yes, you can experience those things when upping the fiber in your diet. You may want to track how many grams you are getting in a day, and then back off a bit. Sub juice for whole fruit, or V8 for veggies - then gradually add them back in.
Make sure you are drinking enough water, and that you are getting in enough fat.

[Lyria]

I asked my doctor if there was anything I could do for the bloating, gas and cramps associated with a high fibre diet. Her recommendation was a product called "Mintec" which is basically peppermint oil.

You take it about 30 minutes prior to a major meal (I take it before breakfast, lunch and dinner) and it is eases the cramping in your bowel which is what causes all those uncomfortable side effects.

I forgot to take my lunch tablet today and had a salad...and had been nibbling grapes...ooooooh man have I paid for it! Got home took my dinner one and within 15 minutes (sorry for the TMI) starting passing wind and felt the pains and cramps ease.

Peppermint tea apparently also works

[rockinrobin]

Once the stomach gets accostomed to the high fiber, by easing into it, there have been no difficulties for ME, that is, and therefore no need whatsoever for me to "take" anything to ease the ummm, side affects. Obviously we're all different though.

[errantbehavior]

Thanks for the info everyone

I think I'm going to try the peppermint. I love peppermint anyway :P