The effect of fiber supplementation on irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Moayyedi P
Published in The American Journal of Gastroenterology
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials comparing fibre supplementation with placebo or low-fibre diet in adults with IBS; random-effects pooling of dichotomous symptom outcomes.
Key Findings
Meta-analysis of 14 RCTs (906 patients) found fibre supplementation reduced IBS symptoms overall (RR of persistent symptoms 0.86, 95% CI 0.80-0.94; NNT 10), an effect driven entirely by soluble fibre such as ispaghula/psyllium (RR 0.83); insoluble bran showed no significant benefit (RR 0.90, CI crossing 1).
Conclusions
Soluble fiber is effective in treating IBS. Bran did not appear to be of benefit.
Limitations
Included trials were mostly small, older and at unclear risk of bias; heterogeneous fibre types and doses; short follow-up; symptom outcomes self-reported; possible publication bias.
Supplements Studied
Soluble fiber is effective in treating IBS. Bran did not appear to be of benefit.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
No industry funding declared
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.