- Make sure you set yourself a drink limit.
A RESPONSIBLE DRINKING LIMIT. My responsible drinking limit is two (while out). When I go out to eat with friends, I set a limit of two drinks, two shots, or one and one. Now honestly, if you have IBS you should stick to one drink or none for that matter, but this is not realistic for all. If you’re like me, once you start drinking you want to continue all night! This is where the whole “being responsible” part comes in. Remember, you may be fine now but moments later you may be living in nightmare of stomach pains. KNOW YOUR LIMIT! (A statement I tell myself before starting the drinking fun!) - Hang out with a person/people that have your back in this. When I’m going out with others, I make sure I’m around someone who can comprehend what I am going through. This is someone who (low key) keeps an eye on you and helps monitor your food and drink related flare-ups while out. This person knows your limit and helps you stay as close to your limit as possible without becoming overbearing and controlling. At the end of the day, you are responsible for what is going into your body and you have to take responsibility for what you decided to intake. This person simply reminds you of limits and restrictions without acting as if they know what is best for you.
- Look up food and drink menus before heading to a restaurant or food joint.
I know how annoying this sounds but it is extremely helpful. You’ll be prepared and can already have in mind what you can/ cannot eat when you get to your destination. You can also give the restaurant a call before hand, to ask if they substitute or remove certain ingredients if you see something in a dish that you can’t have. Plus, doing this ahead of time takes away the stress and anxiety that comes from being around others eating whatever they want. Most times I have to be the last to order because I’m going to ask so many question to the waiter/ waitress about the dish I want to select……unless its salad. - In relation to number 3, if you know for certain there will be food you cannot eat……
Pack something light to eat with water for yourself or eat something before heading out. I’ve been to catered events and bars that have absolutely nothing I can eat. You don’t want to be rude, so let others know. Make them aware that you don’t want to be disrespectful but you have dietary restrictions and feel safer eating your own snack if you become hungry. - HAVE FUN WHEN GOING OUT!
Having so many restrictions and just not knowing what your gut will decide to do can be very stressful, give you anxiety, and make you not want to go anywhere. It can be depressing but don’t let it get the best of you. Remember who you were before your gut issues, accept the person you are now with your gut issues, and think of the person you want to become with your gut issues.b
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