Mediterranean diet better for IBS than low-FODMAP
Mediterranean diet found more effective than low-FODMAP for IBS symptom relief.
Why it matters
- Offers a less restrictive alternative for IBS symptom management.
- Potential additional health benefits beyond IBS relief.
By the numbers
- 110 adults with IBS participated in a 6-week trial.
- 62% on Mediterranean diet saw significant symptom reduction vs. 42% on low-FODMAP.
The big picture
- Mediterranean diet may be easier to follow and has broader health benefits.
- Could be a viable first-line dietary intervention for IBS.
What they're saying
- Experts note low-FODMAP diets can be difficult to adopt and may lack nutrients.
- Previous studies suggest Mediterranean diet improves gastrointestinal and psychological symptoms.
Caveats
- Study sample size was relatively small (110 participants).
- Previous study found low-FODMAP diet marginally more effective but harder to follow.
What’s next
- Larger studies needed to confirm findings and explore long-term effects.