human
My friend has been having problems with her stomach lately. She's been complaining that she can't eat anything without it hurting. Is there a reason for this?
assistant
There are many possible causes of digestive issues, but the most common one is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a condition where the intestines become more sensitive to certain foods and other stimuli. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or both. The exact cause of IBS isn’t known, but it may be related to diet, genetics, stress, and other factors. Treatment usually involves managing symptoms with lifestyle changes, such as eating a low-FODMAP diet, avoiding caffeine, and exercising regularly.