IMPACT OF FOOD ENRICHED WITH DIETARY FIBER ON PATIENTS WITH CONSTIPATION PREDOMINANT IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Dietary Science
• Clinical Nutrition

Background:

• Motility disorders, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), present complex treatment challenges.
• Investigating non-pharmacological approaches like dietary fiber is crucial for managing IBS, particularly the constipation-predominant subtype (IBS-C).

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare dietary fiber intake in women with and without IBS-C.
• To assess the impact of dietary fiber supplementation on bowel function, well-being, and patient compliance in IBS-C.
• To evaluate interventions with minimal disruption to eating habits.

Main Methods:

• A survey assessed dietary fiber intake in 100 healthy women and 98 women with IBS-C (Rome III criteria).
• Dietary habits, bowel function, and well-being were evaluated using questionnaires at baseline and on days 7 and 14.
• Intervention involved daily breakfast supplementation with fiber-enriched bread and muesli.

Main Results:

• Women with IBS-C exhibited significantly lower daily dietary fiber intake compared to healthy controls.
• Fiber-rich bread and muesli supplementation at breakfast, a primary fiber source for IBS-C patients, maintained high compliance.
• A two-week intervention notably improved bowel function, reduced irritation-related complaints, and enhanced general well-being.

Conclusions:

• Dietary fiber supplementation is an effective, well-tolerated intervention for improving symptoms in women with IBS-C.
• Targeting fiber intake through familiar breakfast foods offers a practical approach to managing IBS-C.
• This strategy positively impacts gastrointestinal health and overall patient quality of life.