Savoring Relief: Mediterranean Diet Eases IBS Symptoms, Study Reveals

People living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may find meaningful symptom relief by adopting the Mediterranean diet, according to a recent pilot study from Michigan Medicine. The research, published on May 30, 2025, compared the Mediterranean diet to the traditional low FODMAP diet, a common but restrictive approach for managing IBS.

 

Key Highlights

 

•⁠  ⁠Effective Symptom Relief: The study found that 73% of participants on the Mediterranean diet achieved significant symptom improvement, compared to 81.8% on the low FODMAP diet. Both diets were effective, but the Mediterranean diet stands out as a less restrictive and more accessible option.

 

•⁠  ⁠Dietary Flexibility: Unlike the low FODMAP diet—which requires strict elimination of certain foods and can be difficult to maintain—the Mediterranean diet is easier to follow and avoids the risk of nutrient deficiencies or disordered eating.

 

•⁠  ⁠Broad Health Benefits: The Mediterranean diet is already celebrated for its cardiovascular and cognitive benefits, and now offers promise for those with IBS.

 

•⁠  ⁠Growing Evidence: This pilot study adds to a growing body of research supporting the Mediterranean diet as a viable, evidence-based intervention for IBS patients.

 

Outlook

 

While more large-scale studies are needed, the Mediterranean diet is emerging as a practical and sustainable option for IBS management, offering hope for improved quality of life for millions affected by this common gastrointestinal disorder.

 

Source: ScienceDaily, Neurogastroenterology & Motility, DD News