The effect of Low-FODMAP diet on leaky gut ,symptoms and quality of life in patient with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between a Low-FODMAP (Fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) diet and leaky gut in patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Methods: A total of 24 IBS patients were prospectively analyzed. Patients were randomised to Low-FODMAP diet and Traditional diet for 4 weeks. Stool zonulin,Symptom Severity Score (IBS-SSS) and Quality of Life (IBS-QOL) questionnaires were recorded at baseline and at the end of the 4 weeks. Low-FODMAP group gradually reintroduced FODMAP-containing foods under the supervision of a dietitian for 12 weeks.Stool zonulin and questionnaires were repeated at the end of the 16th week. Laboratory parameters, stool zonulin levels, and IBS-SSS and IBS-QOL scores were evaluated. Results: 24 patient randomised to Low-FODMAP and traditional diet. Stool zonulin was no significant differences (p > 0.05) between two groups at the beginning, 4th week, and 16th week .Both Low-FODMAP and traditional diet groups, IBS-SSS score significantly decreased at week 4 compared to baseline. (p < 0.05) Low-FODMAP group, IBS-SSS score at week 16 significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared to week 4. No significant difference (p > 0.05) was found between the two groups regarding the change in IBS-QOL scores from baseline to week 4. In both groups, the IBS-QOL score at week 4 showed a significant improvement (p < 0.05) compared to baseline.The IBS-QOL score at week 16, was not significantly differ (p > 0.05) from baseline in Low-FODMAP group. Conclusion: Our study demonstrate that restricting FODMAP-containing foods improves disease symptoms and quality of life in patients with IBS. However, it doesnt positively a ffect stool zonulin levels, and consequently on intestinal permeability (leaky gut), has not been demonstrated. Further studies with larger sample sizes and broader scopes are warranted.