Clinical audit of the effects of low-fibre diet on irritable bowel syndrome
This study shows a benefit of low fibre diets on IBS. However, the authors did not investigate any factors that may increase discomfort from a higher fiber diet. These would include improper digestion and abnormal flora creating increased gas with digestion of carbohydrates. Lowering the fiber in the diet may just allow the patient and doctor to ignore the true cause of the symptoms.
Journal of Human nutrition & Dietetics 13 (4), 249-253 High-fibre diets are frequently advocated for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) although there is little scientific evidence to support this. Experience of patients on low-fibre diets suggests that this may be an effective treatment for IBS, warranting investigation. Seventy-four per cent of questionnaires were returned. A significant improvement (60–100% improvement in overall well-being) was recorded by 49% of patients. This preliminary study suggests that low-fibre diets may be an effective treatment for some IBS patients and justifies further investigation as a full clinical trial.