Caroline
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                        
                        
                        I have had IBS for approx 10 years but have not been able to discover which foods severely affect the bowel and cause it to become hyper-active and why it is worse some days than others.   In my case stress seems to play an important part.   I have found Immodium capsules to bring a great deal of relief.   Originally I was on 3 capsules per day, but over time have weaned myself off them & now only take capsules when I travel or know in advance that I have important functions to attend where a trip to the bathroom would be inappropriate.   No doubt you will get a flood of replies as IBS is extremely common and many people are unaware they are suffering from it until the symptons become so unbearable that they seek medical advice.