Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects about one in 10 people globally and is one of the most common disorders related to gut-brain interactions. A new study suggests that dietary interventions may be more effective in managing IBS symptoms than medical treatments. Researchers compared the effectiveness of two diets and one pharmaceutical treatment in adults with moderate to severe IBS symptoms. After 4 weeks, both diets and medical intervention significantly reduced symptom severity, with diets outperforming the medical option, and a low FODMAP diet combined with traditional IBS dietary advice being most effective.
A low FODMAP diet contains foods that are low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, and is often associated with better gastrointestinal health. The study included 294 participants who were randomly assigned to a low FODMAP diet, a high-fiber low-carbohydrate diet, or pharmaceutical treatment tailored to their specific IBS symptoms. Participants’ symptom severity was measured using the IBS Severity Scoring System, and after the initial 4-week intervention, all groups showed a significant decrease in IBS symptoms. During the 6-month follow-up, most participants who followed the diet regimen reported sustained improvement.
Registered dietitians not involved in the study highlighted the benefits of the low FODMAP diet for managing IBS symptoms, as it reduces fermentable carbohydrates that cause gas, bloating, and discomfort. A high-fiber, low-carbohydrate diet may also help improve gut health and ease IBS symptoms. Medications for IBS can positively impact gastrointestinal function but may disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. The present study is the first to test a combined low FODMAP and traditional IBS diet, assess a low-carb diet’s effectiveness for IBS, and compare these dietary approaches to standard medical treatments.
Although all participants in the study reported improvements, the limited duration and observation while receiving treatments suggest that results may have been influenced by being studied. However, recent research supports the findings, indicating that low FODMAP and traditional IBS diets outperform other dietary interventions in easing symptoms. Experts suggest that focusing on eliminating specific trigger foods rather than unnecessary restrictions can help patients achieve a balanced diet while reducing the risk of nutritional deficiencies. Working with a registered dietitian for tailored dietary approaches is recommended to ensure long-term maintenance and overall well-being.
In conclusion, dietary interventions appear to be more effective in managing IBS symptoms than medical treatments. The low FODMAP diet, in particular, has shown promising results in reducing symptoms by eliminating fermentable carbohydrates. By focusing on specific trigger foods and working with a registered dietitian, patients with IBS can achieve sustained symptom relief and improve their overall quality of life. More research is needed to understand the long-term effects of dietary interventions on nutritional status and gut microbiome to further enhance IBS management strategies.
