Irritable bowel syndrome with food-related symptoms: Future directions in the clinical management

Abstract

The majority of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) experiences food-related symptoms, which are associated with high symptom burden, reduced quality of life, increased healthcare consumption and reduced intake of certain nutrients. In this review we aimed to describe a clinically useful approach for physicians, by presenting the latest progress in knowledge and its translation to management in IBS patients with food-related symptoms, as well as the underlying mechanisms involved. The research tools currently available that can be used in the future for a better characterization of this subgroup of patients are also discussed. Working towards this approach could lead to a more individualised work-up and management of IBS patients with food-related symptoms.