The ‘highly effective and simple diet’ that’s perfect for people with IBS

A new study has found that a certain type of diet could be the best way to alleviate IBS symptoms – and it may also help to simplify care for both patients and healthcare providers

Following a specific eating plan could provide relief from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, according to new research findings. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, fish and olive oil, may serve as a “simple, enjoyable and highly effective first step” in managing this common condition, researchers revealed.

IBS affects the digestive system, causing stomach cramps, bloating and diarrhea. It’s generally a chronic condition, although it can be managed through lifestyle changes and medication.

Dietary modifications are usually the initial treatment approach, with patients advised to avoid skipping meals, increase fruit and vegetable intake and reduce fatty, spicy, processed foods, caffeine, carbonated beverages and alcohol, reports the Mirror.

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Researchers at the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust compared how this standard advice measured against the Mediterranean diet.

Dr Imran Aziz, senior clinical lecturer in gastroenterology at the University of Sheffield, said: “For millions of people worldwide, IBS symptoms can severely impact daily life.”

The research included 139 individuals with IBS, with 68 following the Mediterranean diet for six weeks and 71 adhering to conventional dietary recommendations.

Both groups took part in 30-minute online educational sessions about their eating plans and received additional support materials through email.

The study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, revealed that a staggering 62% of those adhering to the Mediterranean diet experienced a significant improvement in their symptoms.

This is compared to just 42% seeing improvements in the other group.

Dr. Aziz stated: “Our study provides strong evidence that the Mediterranean diet can be a simple, enjoyable and highly effective first step in managing this common condition.

The Mediterranean diet was found to be not just as good as traditional dietary advice, but actually significantly better at reducing symptoms.

“Using a Mediterranean diet as an initial treatment also potentially simplifies care for both patients and healthcare providers.

“These findings will inform future guidelines for the management of IBS.”