An online low-FODMAP educational intervention improves physical and psychological symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome

The low fermentable oligo-, di- and monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs) diet has proven beneficial for the management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The growing demand and limited availability of registered dietitians specialized in IBS, together with the omnipresence of technology in daily life, provide an opportunity for the development of adapted resources. This study aimed to assess the impact of implementing the low FODMAP diet, through an online educational service platform, on the quality of life of patients living with IBS. A prospective single-group intervention pilot study involving patients with IBS from two hospitals was conducted. Participants followed the low-FODMAP diet using a web-based platform for 6 months. The IBS quality of life questionnaire (IBS-QoL), the IBS symptom severity scoring system (IBS-SSS), and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Form Y were completed at baseline, after the restriction phase and after reintroduction phase. Fifteen of the 35 recruited participants completed the study (80.0% female, median age of 43.0 (36.0-52.0) years) and at 6 months, a trend towards IBS-QoL improvement was observed, along with a significant improvement in IBS-SSS (from 276 to 200; <i>p</i> < 0.05) and state anxiety level (from 44 to 33; <i>p</i> < 0.05). The results of this pilot study provide valuable insights for the design of a larger study, with promising relevance and utility of teaching the low-FODMAP diet using alternative educational methods.