Effect of Inulin on Microbiota Composition and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, flatus, and altered bowel habits. Evidence suggests restriction of FODMAPs (fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides and polyols) is therapeutic for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. It is postulated that certain FODMAPs have prebiotic effects, namely fructans and galactooligosaccharide (GOS); a low-FODMAP diet restricts intake of prebiotic fibers encouraging imbalance of gut microbiota. A 46-year-old female professional was diagnosed with IBS and was treated with a low-FODMAP diet with the addition of supplements, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and inulin, to prevent further dysbiosis. In the course of her treatment, the nutrition and supplement program instituted allowed her to return to her prior functional level with a noted resolution of symptoms related to her IBS six-month post-treatment. This case report demonstrates how supplement use along with a low-FODMAP diet may improve gut microbiota and IBS-D symptoms. We conclude that the significant improvement in Bifidobacterium may have contributed to the overall outcome.

Keywords: Irritable bowel syndrome, Inulin (Prebiotic), Probiotic, FODMAP, Case Report