In a new study, people with irritable bowel syndrome who followed a Mediterranean diet for 6 weeks experienced significant relief from abdominal pain and other severe symptoms.
A new study suggests that the Mediterranean diet may do more than protect your heart. It may also help calm your gut.
Researchers tested the diet in a randomized clinical trial that included 110 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS.
IBS is a chronic condition that affects the stomach and intestines. It can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas and irregular bowel habits.
Dietary changes are often part of the treatment plan.
In this study, participants were asked to follow either a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fish and olive oil, or traditional dietary advice from the British Dietetic Association, which focuses on healthy eating habits and avoiding foods like excess fatty, processed foods, caffeine, fizzy drinks and alcohol.
After 6 weeks, 62% of people on the Mediterranean diet reported a meaningful improvement in IBS symptoms, compared with 42% of people who followed the traditional dietary advice.
They also had greater reductions in abdominal pain and overall symptom severity.
The authors say these findings suggest the Mediterranean diet is “superior” at easing IBS symptoms and could be a strong first-line dietary option.
Source: Annals of Internal Medicine
Author Affiliations: University of Sheffield
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