Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) flare-ups can happen for no obvious reason, but they can also be triggered by certain foods, drinks, stress, and anxiety
. Common triggers include alcohol, caffeine, spicy or fatty foods, wheat, dairy products, citrus fruits, beans, cabbage, chocolate, fructose, or sorbitol
. Some drugs, such as antibiotics and some antidepressants, can also trigger IBS symptoms
. People with IBS may have worse symptoms when they eat or drink certain foods or beverages
. The exact cause of IBS is not known, but it is classified as a neurogastrointestinal disorder, which means it has to do with problems with how the gut and brain coordinate to help the digestive system work
