Combined low-FODMAP and gluten-free diet improves IBS symptoms

December 5, 2024

Study design: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of a low-FODMAP* diet combined with a gluten-free diet (LF-GFD) in adults with IBS. The analysis included data from four randomized trials and four cohort studies, comprising 437 patients (221 on LF-GFD and 216 on GFD). Key outcome measures included the visual analog scale (VAS) for bloating and pain, the IBS symptom severity scale (IBS-SSS), and the IBS quality of life (IBS-QoL) scores. Psychological impacts were assessed using the self-rating depression scale (SDS) and self-rating anxiety scale (SAS).

Results: The LF-GFD significantly reduced VAS bloating and VAS pain scores. Improvements were also noted in IBS-SSS and IBS-QoL. Additionally, the LF-GFD group showed significant reductions in SDS and SAS scores compared with the GFD group.

Impact on clinical practice: A combined low-FODMAP and gluten-free diet can effectively alleviate IBS symptoms and improve psychological well-being, offering a promising dietary approach for IBS management.

*FODMAP: fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols

Source:

Zhang J, et al. (2024, October 15). Dig Dis Sci. Efficacy and Safety of a Low-FODMAP Diet in Combination with a Gluten-Free Diet for Adult Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39407084/