Breakthrough Blood Test Tailors Diet Plans For IBS Relief
A recent study suggests that a blood test may help individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) identify specific foods that trigger their symptoms, potentially offering relief from stomach pain. The study found that about 60% of IBS patients who followed a diet based on the blood test experienced less stomach discomfort, compared to 42% of those who did not undergo the test.
The blood test, called inFoods IBS, analyzes antibodies in the blood that are produced when the body reacts to certain foods. It tests for 18 foods, including wheat, eggs, cow’s milk, and cabbage, to determine which ones may be causing symptoms in a particular patient. By identifying these triggers, patients can tailor their diets to eliminate problematic foods, improving their quality of life.
The study included nearly 240 participants, all of whom provided blood samples to identify their potential food sensitivities. They were then divided into two groups: one followed an elimination diet based on the blood test results, while the other group followed a placebo elimination diet. Those who followed the personalized diet showed more significant improvements in their symptoms, particularly those with IBS characterized by constipation or a mix of constipation and diarrhea.
This approach could be a valuable alternative to traditional IBS treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medications, which can have side effects. By focusing on a smaller number of specific trigger foods, patients may find it easier to adhere to dietary changes. The research emphasizes the potential of precision nutrition, where dietary recommendations are tailored to individual patients’ needs.
Although the blood test is promising, it has not yet received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The test is still undergoing further validation, but it holds the potential to significantly improve how IBS is managed by identifying precise dietary triggers and helping patients make targeted changes to their diets.
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