This literature review examined the relationship between diet and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). It emphasized the role of gut microbiota imbalances in IBS-C, noting that factors such as diet, genetics, and gastrointestinal motility influence microbiota composition, which in turn affects IBS-C symptoms. Key findings included changes in microbial populations, such as increased Firmicutes and decreased Bacteroidetes, in patients with IBS-C. Additionally, methane production was found to correlate with constipation severity, highlighting the complex interaction between the microbiota and IBS-C symptoms.

The review also explored dietary approaches for managing IBS-C, such as the low-FODMAP diet and fiber supplementation. While the low-FODMAP diet can alleviate symptoms by reducing fermentable carbohydrates, its long-term effectiveness for IBS-C requires further study. Soluble fibers like psyllium and inulin were shown to improve bowel function and stool consistency. The review also considered the potential benefits of prebiotics, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in modulating the microbiota and relieving symptoms. Despite promising results, the review concludes that a personalized, multifaceted dietary approach is essential for managing IBS-C, with further research needed to determine the best long-term dietary strategies.

Reference: Di Rosa C, Altomare A, Terrigno V, et al. Constipation-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-C): Effects of Different Nutritional Patterns on Intestinal Dysbiosis and Symptoms. Nutrients. 2023 Mar 28;15(7):1647. doi: 10.3390/nu15071647. PMID: 37049488; PMCID: PMC10096616.