In subjects affected by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), cruciferous vegetables can induce bloating; however, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale and cabbage produce indole-3-carbinol, which induces the activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which is a protein that links exogenous molecules such as natural plant flavonoids, polyphenolics and indoles. This evidence concerns the gene AHR and irritable bowel syndrome.