Date of Graduation

12-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Nursing

Advisor/Mentor

Ballentine, Hope

Committee Member

Bemis, Sarah

Abstract

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a very common gastrointestinal disorder around the world. There is no known etiology or cure for the disorder, which leaves researchers to develop coping mechanisms for this prevalent issue. A high percentage (10%-15%) of the general population, mostly in Western, industrialized areas, suffer from IBS. A low FODMAP diet (LFD) is something that has been gaining a following over the past 20 years, which has led to research on its ability to minimize symptoms of IBS. The purpose of this literature review is to see what current research has to offer on the LFD’s ability to lessen IBS symptoms, including physical, mental, and quality of life (QoL) aspects. A total of 19 articles that pertained to this topic were selected to see if there is any consensus on the LFD’s efficacy. The results of these articles show that the LFD decreases gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms of IBS significantly if followed correctly. The LFD also increases patients’ QoL, as well as decreases IBS related anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Decreased visits to a provider for IBS related symptoms were also reported. The LFD should be taught correctly to gastroenterologists, medical professionals, and patients with IBS in order to help those with the disorder cope with symptoms that can be very disruptive to their daily lives.

Keywords

Irritable Bowel Syndrome; IBS; Low FODMAP Diet; Nursing; GI

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