Low-FODMAP diet in the management of irritable bowel syndrome

Purpose This study aims to review the role of the low-FODMAP diet in the management of irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort, altered bowel habits, including diarrhea and constipation, and bloating, all of which adversely affect quality of life. As IBS is an idiopathic disorder, current management strategies primarily focus on symptom relief. Dietary factors play a critical role in symptom modulation, and the low fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAP) diet has emerged as an effective therapeutic approach. However, the underlying mechanisms of its effects remain incompletely understood. Design/methodology/approach This narrative review evaluates the effects of the low-FODMAP diet on IBS from a multidimensional perspective by synthesizing current evidence from the literature. Findings Available evidence indicates that adherence to a low-FODMAP diet is associated with improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life in individuals with IBS. In addition, emerging findings suggest that the diet may influence gut microbiota composition and psychological well-being, although the long-term implications of these effects remain unclear. Originality/value This review provides a comprehensive overview of the gastrointestinal, microbiological and psychological effects of the low-FODMAP diet in IBS, highlighting both its clinical relevance and existing knowledge gaps.