Totally Jan - IBS is so weird, and very different!

I mean, I avoid red meat, eggs, I try to avoid coffee which is hard cos I love it (decaf is better but still not ideal) and anything that's really high fat and/or greasy - and like you said, diet sodas and the like.

however, I've never had a problem with sugar - sweeteners yes, but not sugar, or hot drinks (as I find peppermint teas and fennel teas to be a god send for controlling IBS). Apparently you're supposed to avoid dairy.... but I've never had a problem with it as long as it's extra lowfat cheese or skimmed milk.... but I drink lactofree milk anyway, because it makes it easier on the tum.

it's quite interesting comparing notes on this actually!