Recent research highlights that adopting a Mediterranean diet could potentially ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This dietary regimen, rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, fish, and olive oil, offers a “simple, enjoyable, and highly effective first step” for managing this common condition, according to scientists.

IBS affects the digestive system, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating, and diarrhea. While it often persists for life, symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.

Dietary modifications are typically the first line of treatment. Those with IBS are advised to eat regular meals, increase their intake of fruits and vegetables, and reduce consumption of fatty, spicy, and processed foods, as well as caffeine, carbonated drinks, and alcohol. Researchers at the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust explored how the Mediterranean diet compares to these standard dietary recommendations.

Dr. Imran Aziz, a senior clinical lecturer in gastroenterology at the University of Sheffield, remarked, “For millions globally, IBS symptoms can profoundly affect daily life.”

The study included 139 IBS sufferers, with 68 participants following the Mediterranean diet for six weeks and 71 adhering to traditional dietary advice. Both groups attended 30-minute online educational sessions about their diets and received additional support materials via email.

Published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the study found that an impressive 62% of participants on the Mediterranean diet reported a noticeable improvement in their symptoms, compared to just 42% of those following the conventional diet.

Dr Aziz said: “Our study provides strong evidence that the Mediterranean diet can be a simple, enjoyable and highly effective first step in managing this common condition. The Mediterranean diet was found to be not just as good as traditional dietary advice, but actually significantly better at reducing symptoms.

“Using a Mediterranean diet as an initial treatment also potentially simplifies care for both patients and healthcare providers. These findings will inform future guidelines for the management of IBS.”