Nocebo effect, not gluten, may cause IBS symptoms
Study finds no significant difference in IBS symptoms from wheat, gluten, or placebo, suggesting a nocebo effect.
Why it matters
- Challenges the belief that gluten triggers IBS symptoms.
- Highlights the powerful role of expectations in physical symptoms.
By the numbers
- 28 participants completed the study.
- Symptom flare-ups: 39% with wheat, 36% with gluten, 29% with placebo.
- 93% reported adverse events across all challenges.
The big picture
- Psychological factors may play a larger role in IBS symptoms than previously thought.
- Treatment approaches may need to include psychological support alongside dietary advice.
What they're saying
- Some skepticism about the study's findings due to small sample size and lack of significant difference.
- Patients may misattribute symptoms to gluten due to media influence.
Caveats
- Small, non-diverse sample size.
- Low wheat dose used; higher doses might have different effects.
- Impacted by COVID-19 pandemic.
What’s next
- More research needed with larger, more diverse samples.
- Potential for psychological support in managing IBS.