Systematic review: the role of different types of fibre in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome
Bijkerk CJ, Muris JW, Knottnerus JA, Hoes AW, de Wit NJ
Published in Aliment Pharmacol Ther, Vol. 19 (3), pp. 245-51
Methodology
Systematic review of RCTs of fibre in IBS from MEDLINE 1966-2002; 17 studies, analysed for soluble and insoluble fibre separately.
Key Findings
Fibre overall: RR 1.33 (95% CI 1.19-1.50) for global symptom relief; IBS with constipation RR 1.56 (1.21-2.02); no evidence of abdominal pain relief. Soluble fibre RR 1.55 (1.35-1.78); insoluble fibre RR 0.89 (0.72-1.11), in some cases worsening outcome.
Conclusions
Benefits are marginal for global symptoms and IBS-related constipation; insoluble fibres may worsen the clinical outcome.
Limitations
None of the trials studied primary-care patients; older trials.
Supplements Studied
insoluble fibres may worsen the clinical outcome
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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