Nutrition, Physical Activity and Supplementation in Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Abstract

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic, recurrent functional disorder of the intestine diagnosed based on the Rome IV criteria. Individuals suffering from IBS often associate the severity of their symptoms with the food they consume, leading them to limit the variety of foods they eat and seek information that could help them determine the appropriate selection of dietary items. Clear nutritional recommendations have not been established thus far. NICE recommends a rational approach to nutrition and, if necessary, the short-term implementation of a low FODMAP diet. Currently, the FODMAP diet holds the greatest significance among IBS patients, although it does not yield positive results for everyone affected. Other unconventional diets adopted by individuals with IBS lack supporting research on their effectiveness and may additionally lead to a deterioration in nutritional status, as they often eliminate foods with high nutritional value. The role of physical activity also raises questions, as previous studies have shown its beneficial effects on the physical and mental well-being of every individual, and it can further help alleviate symptoms among people with IBS. Supplementation can be a supportive element in therapy. Attention is drawn to the use of probiotics, vitamin D, and psyllium husk/ispaghula. This review aims to analyze the existing scientific research to determine the impact of various food items, physical activity, and dietary supplementation with specific components through dietary supplements on the course of IBS.

Frequency of irritable bowel syndrome in spondyloarthritis: a multicentric cross-sectional study and meta-analysis

“…34 In the meantime, the French Society of Rheumatology has recently issued dietary recommendations for patients with rheumatic diseases. 35 In addition to dietary recommendations, physical activity could have a beneficial impact on IBS symptoms 30 and chronic rheumatic diseases. 33 In our study, patients with IBS symptoms were less physically active than patients without IBS, with a similar sedentary behaviour, supporting the promotion of physical activity in patients with SpA.…”

Gut Microbiota and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in the Global Assessment of Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Practical Implications

“…The consistent literature on IBS suggests adopting a diet rich in soluble fiber (psyllium husk) and a low-FODMAPs diet (low fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, which are present in stone fruits, legumes, lactose-containing foods, and artificial sweeteners) [ 32 ]. Also, although with a more limited amount of evidence, physical exercise has been shown to improve IBS and OCD symptoms [ 56 , 57 ].…”

The Networked Interaction between Probiotics and Intestine in Health and Disease: A Promising Success Story

“…Overall, research into the GBA in IBD is a rapidly evolving field with promising avenues for future treatment development. By better understanding the complex interactions between the gut and brain in IBD, one can identify novel therapeutic targets and improve patient outcomes [ 231 ].…”

“…For instance, a high-fiber diet has been shown to increase the production of SCFAs and improve symptoms in patients with IBS. These findings suggest that dietary interventions targeting the gut microbiome may be promising for managing IBS [ 230 , 231 ].…”