A recent study conducted at the University of Gothenburg has revealed that dietary treatment is more effective than medications in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study, led by researchers and dieticians at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, compared three treatments for individuals experiencing severe or moderate IBS symptoms.
More than seven out of ten patients experienced significantly reduced symptoms with dietary adjustments. IBS is a common diagnosis that causes abdominal pain, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Treatment typically involves dietary advice and medications to alleviate specific symptoms.
The study found that participants who received traditional IBS dietary advice and followed a low FODMAP diet reported the highest symptom relief at 76%. Even at the six-month follow-up, participants in the dietary groups continued to experience significant relief from their symptoms.
The importance of personalizing the treatment of IBS and exploring factors that predict individual responses to different treatment options was emphasized in the study. The findings were published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology.
These findings suggest that dietary adjustments may be a more effective and sustainable treatment option for individuals with IBS. Further research is needed to better understand how personalized approaches to treatment can improve outcomes for those suffering from this common gastrointestinal condition.
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