Diet vs. Medication Treatment for IBS
Diet vs. Medication Treatment for IBS
by Danielle Genenz, MS, RDN, LDN, CPT
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gut disorder characterized by symptoms of chronic, episodic abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, bloating, sensation of incomplete bowel movement, straining and/or urgency which is not explained by structural abnormalities. While the condition can be frustrating and there are no known biomarkers for diagnosis, many treatment options are available to relieve symptoms including medication, diet and mental health modalities.
Scientists at the University in Gothenburg, recently performed a 4-week study to compare the impact of dietary modification against medication treatment for relieving IBS symptoms. Participants with moderate to severe IBS symptoms were randomly appointed delivered meals consisting of either a low-fermentable oligo-, di- and monosaccharides and polyols (low FODMAP) diet, low total carbohydrate content diet; or an optimized medical treatment (OMT) strategy with medication.
Of the 272 participants completing the study, all experienced symptom relief. However, the two diets were superior in symptom relief compared to drug intervention. While researchers noted that longer studies need to be conducted, they concluded, “Our findings support the current guidelines in treatment of IBS, where a positive diagnosis of IBS is crucial for a successful management of IBS and should be followed by general lifestyle intervention and dietary advice. Medical treatment should be guided by the patient’s symptom profile and preference as a second-line treatment option.”
To learn more about treatment options for IBS, schedule an appointment with one of our physicians, nurses or dietitians at 224-407-4400 or at www.compgihealth.com.
Reference:
Findings presented at Digestive Disease Week (DDW), held from May 21 to 24, 2022, in San Diego, California. https://www.healio.com/…/restrictive-diets-offer…