26 January 2024 | Luisa Bertin, Miriana Zanconato, Martina Crepaldi, Giovanni Marasco, Cesare Cremon, Giovanni Barbara, Brigida Barberio, Fabiana Zingone, Edoardo Vincenzo Savarino
The low FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide, and polyol) diet is a therapeutic approach for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that has gained significant attention. The mechanisms by which this diet works include reducing luminal distension, modulating visceral hypersensitivity, increasing intestinal permeability, altering microbiota, and producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). While the majority of evidence supporting the diet's effectiveness is of low quality, recent trials have confirmed its benefits in relieving abdominal bloating and pain. The review examines the potential pathophysiological mechanisms and provides an overview of the evidence for the effectiveness of the low FODMAP diet across different IBS subtypes. Key considerations include the challenges and disadvantages of practical implementation, such as the need for professional guidance, variations in individual responses, concerns related to microbiota, nutritional deficiencies, the development of constipation, and the necessity of excluding eating disorders before starting the diet. Despite its recognized efficacy, acknowledging these limitations is crucial for a nuanced understanding of the role of the low FODMAP diet in managing IBS. The review aims to serve as a valuable resource for healthcare practitioners, researchers, and patients navigating the complex landscape of IBS.The low FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide, and polyol) diet is a therapeutic approach for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that has gained significant attention. The mechanisms by which this diet works include reducing luminal distension, modulating visceral hypersensitivity, increasing intestinal permeability, altering microbiota, and producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). While the majority of evidence supporting the diet's effectiveness is of low quality, recent trials have confirmed its benefits in relieving abdominal bloating and pain. The review examines the potential pathophysiological mechanisms and provides an overview of the evidence for the effectiveness of the low FODMAP diet across different IBS subtypes. Key considerations include the challenges and disadvantages of practical implementation, such as the need for professional guidance, variations in individual responses, concerns related to microbiota, nutritional deficiencies, the development of constipation, and the necessity of excluding eating disorders before starting the diet. Despite its recognized efficacy, acknowledging these limitations is crucial for a nuanced understanding of the role of the low FODMAP diet in managing IBS. The review aims to serve as a valuable resource for healthcare practitioners, researchers, and patients navigating the complex landscape of IBS.