What Should You Avoid Eating If You Have IBS?

Digestive issues in children are on the rise—and more parents are seeking support for recurring constipation, stomach pain, selective eating, or emotional distress. Scientific research highlights the vital role of gut microbiota in shaping immunity, nutrient absorption, sleep, and mental well-being. This blog explores why the gut is sometimes called the body’s “invisible organ,” how diet and daily habits affect the balance of a child’s gut flora, and what parents can do to help. We look at the growing prevalence of IBS-like symptoms, how ultra-processed foods disrupt gut health, and the crucial gut–brain connection through neuroactive compounds. Finally, we introduce GutMagnific®KIDS—a research-based probiotic supplement tailored for children.

This year’s Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine highlights regulatory T cells (Tregs) - the immune system’s “brakes” that help maintain inflammatory balance. Research increasingly shows that the gut and its microbiota play a key role in regulating these cells through microbial signaling molecules. Selected bacterial strains can support immunological balance and the intestinal barrier, forming the scientific foundation behind GutMagnific®, a precision formulation developed from over 20 years of research in immunology and the microbiome. The Nobel Prize underscores the growing importance of gut-immune interactions for future health.

Many people who experience histamine sensitivity describe that certain foods tend to work less well for them — especially foods that are aged, cured or fermented. Some fruits, vegetables and drinks can also feel more challenging for certain individuals. Reactions vary widely from person to person, and it often takes some personal tracking to understand what you react to. Why Do Some Foods Contain More Histamine? Histamine is formed in food when bacteria are allowed to grow, particularly during storage, curing, fermentation or when leftovers are kept too long.The longer a food is stored, the higher its histamine content tends to be. Because of this, many people find that fresh foods are often easier to tolerate than leftovers or processed foods. How food is stored, handled and cooked can also influence histamine levels. Foods Commonly Higher in Histamine Below are examples of foods that many people with histamine sensitivity report reacting to.Tolerance varies — this list is a guide, not a strict rulebook. Animal Products Aged cheeses (parmesan, brie, camembert) Cured meats (salami, ham, sausages) Smoked or canned fish (tuna, mackerel, sardines) Leftovers that were not cooled quickly Liver and organ meats Fermented Products Sauerkraut Soy sauce, tamari, miso Kimchi Drinks Red wine, beer, champagne Coffee and energy drinks Fermented teas Vegetables & Fruit Tomato Spinach Aubergine (eggplant) Strawberries Avocado Citrus fruits (may also act as histamine-releasers for some) Foods That May Act as Histamine-Releasers Some foods are low in histamine but are described by some people as stimulating the body’s own release of histamine. These are sometimes referred to as “histamine liberators.” Commonly mentioned examples include: Chocolate Shellfish Nuts Banana Egg white Alcohol (especially red wine and beer) Certain preservatives and colourings (specific E-numbers) The effect is highly individual — and for many, the combination of several histamine-affecting foods at the same time has a greater impact than any single food. Lower-Histamine Options Even though the “avoid” list may feel long, many people with histamine sensitivity describe that certain foods tend to work better for them. Individual tolerance varies, but the following examples are frequently mentioned in low-histamine guides and by individuals who follow a low-histamine approach: Protein Fresh chicken, turkey Carbohydrates Rice, quinoa, potatoes, buckwheat Vegetables Zucchini, broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce Fruit Pear, apple, blueberries, Fats Olive oil, Coconut oil Tips for Managing Histamine in Daily Life Many people find the following strategies helpful: Choose fresh ingredients and cook meals right away Avoid long-stored leftovers — or cool them quickly and eat within 24 hours Read ingredient lists carefully Cook at home to stay in control of all ingredients Keep a food and symptom diary to identify your personal patterns What Influences Histamine Levels Beyond Food? Although diet plays a role in histamine sensitivity, it’s rarely the whole picture.Gut health, stress levels and medication use can also influence how the body handles histamine.