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Gastrointestinal symptoms are highly common among patients with hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) and can be complex to manage, especially from a nutrition perspective. Broadly, HSD includes a range of conditions where joints extend beyond their typical range of motion. Understanding the complex relationship between HSD and GI symptoms is critical in order to guide effective dietary treatment that both controls symptoms and prevents negative nutritional consequences. ​​​​​​​

Treatment for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders frequently involves dietary restriction in order to manage symptoms like gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain. While some dietary changes are often necessary to control symptoms, they can evolve into maladaptive behaviors and may increase risk for an eating disorder (ED).

Prebiotic fibers support the health of the gut microbiota among those with functional GI disorders, such as IBS. Research highlights their mechanistic ability to increase beneficial short-chain fatty acids and manage inflammation, but the impact of prebiotic fiber supplementation on symptom relief varies. Although supplementation shows promise, caution is advised when introducing prebiotics in IBS patients due to their potential to exacerbate symptoms.

Research on small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) remains ongoing, but many questions remain. Emerging data sheds light on a more nuanced definition of SIBO, its clinical features and optimal diagnostic methods. Amidst mixed and often low confidence evidence for treatments, medication and lifestyle interventions can provide some efficacy at symptom management.

New Partnership between digestive health brands delivers evidence-based, holistic support to the irritable bowel syndrome community.

Diet is an important trigger of GI symptoms in athletes and increased symptom severity is associated with underperformance. Proper nutrition in athletes is important to support performance and recovery, promote adequate energy intake, ensure good mental health and much more. Various tools and strategies are available to ensure proper fueling and support athletes needing to manage digestive issues. 

The low FODMAP diet is widely recognized as a cornerstone of IBS management, but recent data points to potential applications of the diet for a wider category of patients experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.

Historically, the majority of research on the low FODMAP diet in IBS has been on the elimination phase, the first phase of the three-phased diet. Data on the prevalence of specific FODMAP intolerances and their amounts has been limited, though new research on which FODMAP are most commonly triggering is emerging.

Dietary polyphenols, which are primarily found in plants, offer a range of health promoting and disease prevention benefits. Recent research examines their preventive and therapeutic benefits for cardiometabolic, neurodegenerative, oncological, and gastrointestinal conditions. In particular, polyphenols’ roles in digestion may be of relevance for IBS & NCWS.