Clinical Research Directory

Nutritional Management of the Irritable Bowel Syndrome(IBS): The Role of the Mediterranean Diet (MD)

Sponsor: University Hospital of Patras

Summary

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder with a significant impact on the quality of life of patients. Its global prevalence varies considerably, estimated at up to 10%, due to differences in diagnostic criteria, cultural factors and dietary patterns. Dietary interventions have emerged as first-line strategies for symptom management, with the low Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, and Monosaccharides and Polyols (FODMAP) diet demonstrating strong efficacy in reducing gastrointestinal symptoms by minimizing poorly absorbed, fermentable carbohydrates. However, concerns about long-term nutritional adequacy, potential alterations in gut microbiota composition, and sustainability of the low-FODMAP diet have led to the need for more comprehensive and nutritionally balanced dietary models. In contrast, the Mediterranean Diet (MD), is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory, cardiometabolic, and potential anticancer effects. Notably, adherence to the MD has been associated with favorable gut microbial profiles and a reduced risk of colorectal and other gastrointestinal cancers. However, the high FODMAP content of many components of the MD may limit its direct compatibility with dietary protocols for IBS. Incorporating the principles of the MD into a low-FODMAP dietary approach offers a promising strategy for enhancing the nutritional quality, sustainability, and long-term effectiveness of dietary management in IBS. The aim of the study is to investigate and compare the effectiveness of a Mediterranean Modified Low FODMAP diet (Med-Mod LFD) with standard Mediterranean dietary recommendations (Med standard) in managing the symptoms of IBS. Specifically, the study aims to evaluate the impact of the two dietary interventions on the frequency and severity of gastrointestinal symptoms, to examine potential differences in quality of life, to assess patient compliance and acceptance of the two dietary approaches, and to explore whether the Med-Mod Low FODMAP variation of the Mediterranean diet offers advantages over the classical Mediterranean diet without compromising the health-promoting characteristics that make it beneficial.Dietary intake will also be assessed using a three-day food diary, which will be used for the dietary analysis of participants' food intake and for the assessment of macro- and micronutrient intake of the two dietary interventions

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