In a recent study conducted at the University of Gothenburg, researchers discovered that making dietary adjustments proved to be more effective in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) compared to medications. The findings, published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology journal, offer new insights into the potential benefits of personalized dietary treatments for IBS patients.

IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, gas and bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Treatment for IBS often involves dietary advice, including consuming small and frequent meals and avoiding certain trigger foods like coffee, alcohol, and fizzy drinks. Medications, such as antidepressants, are also commonly prescribed to alleviate specific symptoms.

The study compared three treatment approaches: traditional IBS dietary advice, a low-carbohydrate diet high in protein and fat, and medication-based treatment. The participants were adult patients with moderate to severe IBS symptoms at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg.

When the researchers evaluated the participants' responses to the treatments using a recognized IBS symptom scoring scale, the results were remarkable. The group that received traditional IBS dietary advice, which focused on eating behavior and low intake of fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs), reported a significant reduction in symptoms for 76% of participants. Similarly, the group following the low-carbohydrate diet with high protein and fat saw a 71% reduction in symptoms. In contrast, the medication group experienced a 58% reduction in symptoms.

Moreover, all participating groups reported improvements in their quality of life, fewer physical symptoms, and a decrease in anxiety and depression symptoms. Even at the six-month follow-up, when participants in the dietary groups had partially returned to their previous eating habits, a significant proportion still experienced clinically significant symptom relief: 68% in the traditional dietary advice and low FODMAP group, and 60% in the low-carbohydrate diet group.

Led by Sanna Nybacka, a Researcher and Dietician, along with Stine Störsrud, an Associate Professor, and Magnus Simrén, a Professor and Senior Consultant, all from Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, the study highlights the pivotal role that diet plays in the treatment of IBS. Furthermore, it underscores the effectiveness of various personalized treatment options available.

"We need more knowledge about how to best personalize the treatment of IBS in the future and we will further investigate whether there are certain factors that can predict whether individuals will respond better to different treatment options," stated Sanna Nybacka.

These findings contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting the use of dietary adjustments as a central component in managing IBS symptoms. By tailoring treatment plans to individual needs, healthcare professionals may be able to provide more effective and personalized care for individuals living with IBS.