Ingesting methylcellulose fibre gels are as effective as psyllium in reducing colonic fermentation of inulin – a first step to IBS symptom relief

Motivation: People with IBS often restrict their intake of FODMAPs (poorly absorbed fermentable carbohydrates) that produce gas and abdominal discomfort. This diet is low in fibre, which increases the risk of diabetes and colon cancer. Goal(s): To determine whether adding a low-cost fibre methylcellulose, widely used in food manufacturing, will moderate colonic fermentation of FODMAP inulin to an extent similar to the more expensive psyllium. Approach: 3-way randomised crossover study giving inulin with methylcellulose, psyllium or placebo in 22 healthy volunteers. Results: We show that methylcellulose in gel form is equally good as psyllium at reducing colonic gas after inulin Impact: Methylcellulose reduces colonic gas produced by dietary FODMAPs in healthy volunteers. If replicated in patients with IBS-C, then methylcellulose could form a low-cost dietary additive to enable people with IBS-C to eat a health-promoting diet with less abdominal pain.