A growing body of nutrition science suggests that trimming added sugars and refined starches may ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a condition known for its chronic and unpredictable nature. IBS is characterized by recurring abdominal pain and irregular bowel movements, with its development influenced by genetic factors and psychological stress. Experts describe the gut brain connection as central to symptom flares, where signals between the digestive system and the nervous system interact in complex ways. This relationship means everyday food choices can significantly shape how the condition behaves and how comfortable daily life feels for those living with IBS.
Several years of research have built a practical framework for managing IBS with diet. Many individuals find relief by reducing highly processed foods such as ready meals and fast foods, along with certain vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, and dairy products. A group of carbohydrate types known as FODMAPs stands for short-chain sugars and sugar alcohols that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. By limiting these carbohydrates, the gut experiences less rapid fermentation, often reducing bloating, pain, and irregularity.
In a separate trial, a study involving 155 volunteers compared two dietary strategies. One was SSRD, a sugar- and starch-restricted diet, which asks participants to minimize intake of sucrose and starch. The other approach remains the traditional FODMAP plan. The trial explored how these patterns affect IBS symptoms, cravings, and body weight, offering insights into how different dietary strategies can influence gut comfort and overall health.
Common sources of sucrose include many everyday fruits such as bananas, pineapples, dates, oranges, tangerines, and grapes, as well as a wide range of confectionery, baked goods, carbonated drinks, jams, and jellies. Foods rich in starch cover potatoes, corn, legumes, and peas. By concentrating on these categories, SSRD aims to ease symptom triggers while allowing a broader menu of alternatives compared with the traditional FODMAP approach, making adherence more feasible for many people.
Findings from this trial showed that both dietary approaches produced meaningful symptom relief for a majority of participants—roughly three-quarters to four-fifths, or 75 to 80 percent. Notably, individuals following the SSRD reported a larger reduction in sugar cravings than those on the FODMAP plan, which may help sustain the diet over the long term. In addition, those on SSRD experienced more successful weight loss, pointing to metabolic benefits beyond symptom control.
An important practical takeaway is that the SSRD diet offers a longer list of permitted foods than the FODMAP plan, which can support easier adherence and long-term success in restoring intestinal health. This could help individuals stay on track longer and enhance overall gut well-being. Earlier studies also connected low manganese levels with intestinal inflammation, underscoring the link between micronutrient status and gut health. Cited from a recent European study on IBS dietary approaches.