Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Control Volunteers: Diet Challenge

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES · Oct 30, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how certain substances in the gut, like bile acids and short-chain fatty acids, may relate to symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS can cause either diarrhea (IBS-D) or constipation (IBS-C). The researchers want to see if changes in the gut's bacteria are linked to these symptoms and how the gut processes certain dietary fibers, specifically inulin. They are looking for adults aged 18-75 who have been diagnosed with IBS, as well as healthy volunteers who do not have any gastrointestinal issues.

Participants in the trial will follow a specific diet for four days and provide stool samples to help researchers analyze the gut bacteria and other substances. If you join the study, you will be asked questions about your bowel habits and your experiences with IBS symptoms. It’s important to note that certain health conditions, medications, and recent surgeries may prevent someone from participating, so eligibility will be carefully checked. Overall, this research aims to better understand IBS to improve treatments in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age 18-75
• • Individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• • Healthy volunteers (healthy controls) with no prior history of gastrointestinal (GI) disease or symptoms
• • No dietary restrictions other than vegetarian
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or certain types of abdominal cancer, as well as those with thyroid or liver issues
• • Abdominal surgery or abdominal radiation within 6 months of study participation, with an exception for C-section or gallbladder removal
• • Use of any prescription, over the counter, or herbal medications known to affect gastrointestinal function or study interpretation, such as opioids, inflammatory drugs or certain antidepressants, within 6 months prior to study participation for healthy volunteers, or within 2 days of study participation for participants with IBS.
• • An exception will be permitted for limited use of stable low doses of antidepressants for individuals who have been taking them for a period greater than one month.
• • Rescue medication such as Bisacodyl (dulcolax) to relieve severe constipation and allow for stool collection will be permitted when needed.
• • Use of Ozempic and Ozempic-type medications
• • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• • Antibiotic use within 3 months of study participation
• • Use of prebiotics or probiotics within the 2 weeks before the study initiation
• • Regular tobacco use within the past 6 months