Can the Mediterranean Diet Offer Relief for IBS Sufferers?
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Synopsis
A recent study reveals that the Mediterranean diet could be a promising option for IBS relief, offering a less restrictive alternative to low FODMAP diets. With significant findings that enhance dietary management for IBS, this research opens new avenues for patients seeking relief. Explore how this popular diet can transform lives.
Key Takeaways
- The Mediterranean diet may alleviate symptoms of IBS.
- 73% of participants reported symptom improvement.
- It is less restrictive compared to the low FODMAP diet.
- Offers a sustainable alternative to dietary management.
- Contributes to cardiovascular and overall health benefits.
New Delhi, June 1 (NationPress) A group of researchers from the US has discovered that following a Mediterranean diet might alleviate symptoms for individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
IBS impacts approximately 4-11% of the population, and many patients prefer to manage their symptoms through dietary adjustments rather than medication.
While a low FODMAP diet has been shown to improve symptoms in over half of patients, it is often seen as restrictive and challenging to maintain.
Previous studies from Michigan Medicine have explored more accessible dietary options, leading to the development of a “FODMAP simple” approach, which limits only the food groups within the FODMAP acronym that are most likely to trigger symptoms.
The latest research, published in the journal Neurogastroenterology & Motility, involved participants divided into two groups—one adhering to the Mediterranean diet and the other following the low FODMAP diet.
In the Mediterranean diet group, 73% of participants achieved the primary goal of symptom improvement, compared to 81.8% in the low FODMAP group.
“Restrictive diets like low FODMAP can be tough for patients to adopt,” remarked Prashant Singh, a gastroenterologist at Michigan Medicine and lead author of the study.
“Aside from being costly and time-consuming, there are risks of nutrient deficiencies and disordered eating with low FODMAP diets. We found the Mediterranean diet intriguing as it is not an elimination diet and addresses many limitations associated with low FODMAP,” Kumar noted.
The Mediterranean diet is already well-regarded among healthcare professionals for its cardiovascular, cognitive, and overall health benefits. However, previous research on its effects on IBS has produced mixed findings.
Although the Mediterranean diet offered symptom relief, the low FODMAP group reported more significant improvements in both abdominal pain intensity and IBS symptom severity scores.
“This study contributes to the growing evidence that a Mediterranean diet could be a valuable addition to the recommended dietary strategies for IBS patients,” stated William Chey, chief of Gastroenterology at the University of Michigan.
Point of View
I believe this groundbreaking study highlights a significant shift in dietary recommendations for IBS sufferers. The Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits, opens new pathways for patients seeking manageable and effective dietary solutions.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mediterranean diet?
The Mediterranean diet is a dietary pattern inspired by the eating habits of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins.
How does the Mediterranean diet help with IBS?
Research indicates that the Mediterranean diet can help alleviate symptoms of IBS by providing a balanced, nutrient-rich approach that avoids the strict limitations of other diets.
What are the benefits of a low FODMAP diet?
The low FODMAP diet has been shown to improve symptoms in many IBS patients by limiting foods that are high in fermentable carbohydrates.
Is the Mediterranean diet easy to follow?
Yes, the Mediterranean diet is generally considered more sustainable and easier to follow compared to restrictive diets, focusing on wholesome foods rather than elimination.
What percentage of patients saw symptom improvement with the Mediterranean diet?
In the study, 73% of patients following the Mediterranean diet achieved significant symptom improvement.
