Irritable bowel syndrome is a common bowel problem presenting with frequent abdominal pain that is related to changes in stool pattern. Of all contributing factors to IBS, diet and lifestyle factors are unique and modifiable but difficult to understand. Several studies had been done in western countries to find out the relationships between lifestyle practices and IBS but are scarce among Bangladeshi population. To evaluate the diet and lifestyle practices of IBS patient and its relation with symptom exaggeration.  This was a cross-sectional study. In this study, a predesigned semi-structured questionnaire based on living habits and diet was used. Here we recorded food and lifestyle habits of 45 IBS subjects and 45 non-IBS subjects. Rome IV criteria were used to diagnose IBS. Cross-tabulation analysis and logistic regression were used to reveal any relationship between lifestyle habits, eating habits, frequency of food intake and other related conditions. The mean age of IBS patients was 31.6 (SD ± 8.3) years, of whom 32 (71.1%) were males. About IBS subtyping, 53.3% were diagnosed as IBS-D, 33.3% as IBS-M and 13.3% as IBS-C. The BMI of IBS group was 14.5 (SD ± 2.3). The results of the logistic regression analysis indicate that IBS was associated with poor quality sleep (odds ratio [OR], 4.5), physical inactivity (OR, 1.9), and dietary changes (OR, 2.3). Milk, vegetables, bakery items, and artificial sweeteners were significantly associated with IBS symptoms (p <0.05) compared to the non-IBS group. On the other hand, rice, chicken and fish do not make any significant problem between the two groups. This study will guide the physician to develop a self-care program to minimize the severity of disease and enhance the quality of life of the patient with IBS. This study reveals a potential relationship between diet and lifestyle habits and IBS. Offensive diet and lifestyle practices should focus on IBS treatment.

Keywords: Irritable bowel syndrome, Food, Diet habits, Life style, Quality of life