Study Finds Low-Carb Diet and FODMAP Diet More Effective Than Medication for IBS Relief

A recent study conducted by the University of Gothenburg in Sweden revealed that dietary changes have proven to be more effective in alleviating symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) compared to traditional medications. The study, published in The Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology, found that both the low-carbohydrate diet and the FODMAP diet showcased significant relief for individuals suffering from IBS.

IBS, a condition affecting a large population worldwide, particularly women, manifests as abdominal pain combined with diarrhea or constipation. The research involved 294 Swedish adults with moderate to severe IBS symptoms who were randomly divided into three groups to explore the impact of dietary changes versus pharmaceutical treatment.

Participants following either the low FODMAP diet or the low-carbohydrate diet reported a remarkable reduction in IBS symptoms after just four weeks. The study demonstrated a 76% alleviation in symptoms with the low FODMAP diet and a 71% reduction with the low-carbohydrate diet, while the pharmaceutical group experienced a 58% reduction.

Individuals on the dietary interventions not only reported physical symptom relief but also noted improvements in their mental well-being and overall quality of life. Even after six months, a majority of the participants stated ongoing relief from their IBS symptoms.

Dr. Lin Chang, a gastroenterologist from California, noted the study’s encouragement of long-term dietary approaches for IBS treatment. The research highlighted the unexpected effectiveness of the low-carbohydrate diet in managing IBS symptoms, portraying diet as a viable alternative to medication.

The study, although impactful, raised considerations about the duration of medication use and the availability of specific IBS treatments in different regions. While acknowledging the benefits of medication, the study emphasized the immediate impact of dietary changes on symptom reduction.

Chang pointed out that behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy can also play a significant role in alleviating IBS symptoms. Additionally, she recommended meal-delivery services specializing in low-carb or FODMAP meals to facilitate dietary adherence for individuals with IBS.

Ronnie Cohen, a journalist from the San Francisco Bay Area, highlighted the critical intersection of health and social justice in the context of IBS treatment, underscoring the evolving landscape of healthcare approaches.