Dietary Triggers of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study in Casablanca, Morocco

Abstract Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition affecting the digestive system, causing multiple symptoms that impair quality of life. It usually affects women and young people, often coexists with other functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), and has a major detrimental effect on society’s economy and quality of life. The diagnosis is confirmed when patients meet Rome IV criteria. To date, researchers have developed a causal link between diet and symptoms, but in the Arab population and more specifically in Morocco, data are very scarce or even non-existent. Aim Our aim was to investigate the association between dietary factors and IBS symptoms among adults in Casablanca, Morocco, and to identify foods that are most commonly associated with symptom exacerbation. Method The study population was drawn from a previously conducted cross-sectional study that included 411 participants; from this sample, a subset of 187 individuals (n = 187) was selected for the present analysis. Data was collected using a questionnaire developed and administered by a dietitian. The entire protocol was validated by an ethics committee. Results The study determined which foods are directly associated with IBS symptoms. Butter, soda, beans, charcuterie, cabbage and cauliflower, white bread, peas, coffee, sweet snacks, mint tea, yogurt, milk, and orange were the foods that we were able to identify (p < 0.001). In more than 40% of the patients, the majority of these foods caused discomfort. Conclusion Our results are consistent with the literature and support the need for dietary adaptation for IBS patients. A diet adapted to the Moroccan population would be our next challenge.