Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that results in stomach discomfort, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.
A recent study at the University of Gothenburg found that dietary treatment is more effective than medications for IBS. More than 70% of patients saw a significant reduction in symptoms after making dietary adjustments.
There are various combinations and varying degrees of severity for treating the symptoms.
Treatment often involves dietary recommendations, such as eating small and frequent meals and avoiding food triggers like coffee, alcohol, and fizzy drinks. Patients may also receive medications to alleviate specific symptoms, such as gas, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, or abdominal pain. In some cases, antidepressants are used to improve symptoms in IBS.
The recent research, published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology, compared three treatments: two dietary approaches and one based on medication use. The study involved adult patients withsevere or moderate IBS symptoms at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg.
Improved symptom relief through dietary adjustments
One group was provided with traditional IBS dietary advice, which focused on eating behavior and reducing the consumption of fermentable carbohydrates, also known as FODMAPs. These include products containing lactose, legumes, onions, and grains, which ferment in the colon and can lead to IBS-related pain.
The second group was given a diet low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fat. The third group received the most suitable medication based on the individual patient’s symptoms.
Each group had approximately 100 participants and the treatment periods lasted four weeks. The researchers then assessed the participants’ response to the treatments using an established IBS symptom scoring scale, and the results were evident.
Out of those who received traditional IBS dietary advice and low FODMAP content, 76% experienced a significant reduction in symptoms. In the group that received a low-carb, high-protein, and high-fat diet, the percentage was 71%, and in the medication group, it was 58%.
All groups reported a significantly improved quality of life and fewer physical symptoms.
Patients who followed a personalized diet plan experienced a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to those who received standard dietary advice.
Even after returning to their previous eating habits, a significant number of participants continued to experience relief from symptoms; 68% in the traditional dietary advice and low FODMAP group, and 60% in the low-carbohydrate diet group.
The study was conducted by Sanna Nybacka, Researcher and Dietician, Stine Störsrud, Associate Professor, and Magnus Simrén, Professor and Senior Consultant, at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg.
“This study demonstrates the importance of personalized dietary interventions in managing mental health conditions,” explained the researchers.Sanna Nybacka states that diet is a key factor in treating IBS, but there are also other effective alternative treatments. She also emphasizes the need for more research to personalize IBS treatment and identify factors that can predict individual responses to different treatment options.
