Pilot Study Shows Mediterranean Diet May Alleviate Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

A recent pilot study conducted by researchers at Michigan Medicine has highlighted the potential benefits of the Mediterranean diet in relieving symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study, published in the journal Neurogastroenterology & Motility, involved participants previously diagnosed with IBS, who were assigned to follow either a Mediterranean diet or a low FODMAP diet—a diet commonly recommended for IBS patients that restricts specific fermentable carbohydrates.

Over four weeks, the primary measure was a 30% reduction in abdominal pain intensity. Results showed that 73% of patients adhering to the Mediterranean diet experienced significant symptom improvement, compared to 81.8% in those following the low FODMAP diet. Although the low FODMAP diet resulted in greater symptom relief, it is often considered restrictive and challenging to maintain, raising concerns about long-term adherence and nutritional adequacy.

The Mediterranean diet, already celebrated for its cardiovascular, cognitive, and overall health benefits, is less restrictive and emphasizes a balanced intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Researchers at Michigan Medicine have previously explored diet-based interventions like the "FODMAP simple" diet, which restricts only the most problematic food groups within the FODMAP framework, aiming for more accessible options.

Lead author Dr. Prashant Singh commented on the significance of these findings, noting that restrictive diets can be difficult for patients due to costs, time commitment, and potential nutrient deficiencies. The study suggests that the Mediterranean diet could serve as a viable alternative for IBS management, providing symptom relief without the limitations of elimination diets.

This randomized controlled trial involved 20 participants with IBS-D (diarrhea predominant) or IBS-M (mixed symptoms). While the low FODMAP diet showed slightly superior results in symptom reduction, the positive outcomes associated with the Mediterranean diet indicate its promise as an accessible, health-friendly dietary intervention. Experts believe further research is necessary to compare the long-term effects and sustainability of the Mediterranean diet versus personalized reintroduction phases of low FODMAP diets.

Overall, this study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting diet-based approaches for IBS relief and encourages further investigation into how the Mediterranean diet can be effectively incorporated into treatment strategies for patients with irritable bowel syndrome.