Even if it looks clean. Even if it’s organic. Even if you grew it in your own garden.
Wash all your fresh fruits and veggies thoroughly!
If you have IBS, your gut is sensitive not just to what foods you eat, but also to what’s in your foods.
Fresh produce can have contaminants that upset your gut:
Pesticide residues
Bacteria like E. coli, Listeria, Salmonella
Soil-based parasites
Food-grade waxes and coatings
Cross-contamination from human handling
All of these can cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, and even mimic food poisoning.
Certified organic produce is better…
Certified organic foods are grown without synthetic pesticides or herbicides. That’s a huge bonus for IBS.
But those organic fruits and veggies still need to be washed.
Here's why:
Organic produce can still carry bacteria and parasites from soil, compost, or water runoff
Approved "natural" pesticides (such as neem oil or sulfur) may be used
Organic waxes and coatings may trap debris
Produce is handled during harvest, shipping, and storage, increasing contamination risk
It’s not a bad idea to consider peeling fruits and vegetables even after washing.
This reduces the ** insoluble fiber trigger** as well as eliminating surface contaminants.
Sometimes it’s the simple things that count. Just washing your produce properly can literally help you avoid IBS flares.
And more help eating for IBS…
You are not alone.
P.S. If you need help or have questions hit the Green Button below and I’ll try to answer every one of you!
If you need immediate help please join my Private IBS Coaching.
XOXO
Heather
Heather Van Vorous
40+ years of IBS advocacy
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