I'm one of those unfortunate people who suffer from both IBS and migraine headaches. Although they are two different disorders, they have a lot of features in common, including enhanced sensitivity to pain, so it's not surprising that these two conditions often go hand in hand.

Mashed taters are comfort food at its best. They are delicious, satisfying, and soothe the digestive tract. But when you're not feeling well or just want something tasty and filling in a hurry, you may not have the time, energy, or motivation to peel and boil and mash from scratch.

For decades, fiber has been extolled as a vital component of a healthy diet. Doctors, dietitians, the food industry, and government have prominently touted a high-fiber diet as essential for preventing or relieving digestive disorders, including IBS-C (constipation-predominant IBS) and idiopathic constipation (constipation with no apparent cause). ​However, most of these health claims aren't supported by scientific research.

Everyone loves easy, simple salad dressings because dressings are incredibly versatile. They can be used to top salads, of course, but they also add a satisfying jolt of flavor when they're drizzled over vegetables, grains, potatoes, and sweet potatoes.

Bananas are just one of many kinds of fruits, so why do we give them so much attention? For starters, bananas are different from the majority of fruits in that they are both starchy and sweet, and these qualities put bananas in a class of their own in terms of their versatility.

Protein is often a looming but unwarranted concern when it comes to vegan diets, and low-FODMAP vegan diets in particular. That's because many vegan diets rely heavily on legumes (beans, lentils, and peas), which are excellent sources of concentrated plant protein. Unfortunately, most legumes are high in FODMAPs and can cause digestive distress for people with irritable bowel syndrome.

Making breakfast can be tough at times for people with IBS. Hunger may lag when your tummy has been in a twist all night or when you still feel bloated and stuffed from yesterday's meals. There certainly may be occasions when eating is the last thing on your mind in the morning.

Although pudding is a pleasurable comfort food any time of the year, it's especially welcome during the dark, cold, dreary days of winter when a little pick-me-up is needed. Chocolate, of course, makes everything more bearable. It increases the brain's level of serotonin, the "feel-good" brain chemical, which plays a major role in boosting mood and enhancing emotions, along with a slew of other health benefits. 

Need an irresistible snack or welcome gift? Here you go! It's easy to create vegan candied pecans at home. This simple, no-bake version makes a scrumptious topping for any special fall or winter dish. Crumble the pecans over baked sweet potatoes, pumpkin pie, cooked grains, vegan yogurt, or salads.