Irritable bowel syndrome malabsorption: Link and more

Research indicates that there may be a link between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and certain forms of malabsorption, such as fructose, fructans, and bile acid.

The term malabsorption defines a condition in which the body has difficulty absorbing vital nutrients from food into the bloodstream.

IBS is a long-term condition that affects the digestive system and can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, bloating, and diarrhea.

In this article, we will discuss whether there is a link between IBS and malabsorption, some treatment options for both conditions, and when a person may want to speak to a doctor.

A person with IBS may experience sensitivities to certain foods that trigger symptoms such as abdominal pain. Research from 2013 suggests that approximately 84% of people with IBS relate their symptoms to food sensitivities.

According to a 2020 study, it is common for people with IBS to experience lactose intolerance. However, the study authors could not find enough evidence to conclude that there is a link between IBS and lactose malabsorption. The study also suggests that there is not enough evidence to suggest a link between IBS and any type of malabsorption.

A 2024 study suggests that there may be a link between IBS and the malabsorption of fructose and fructans. The malabsorption of fructose and fructans occurs when the body struggles to absorb the naturally occurring sugars and carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables. This can lead to a buildup of fructose and fructans in the intestines, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and excess gas.

A 2021 study suggests that fructose malabsorption may be a cause of IBS. However, the research suggests that more evidence is needed to conclude this.

According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), up to one-third of people with IBS who experience diarrhea also have bile acid malabsorption (BAM).

BAM is when the body cannot absorb the bile salts that the body produces to help digest food. This can lead to a buildup of bile salts in the colon, causing loose, watery stools.

There are several treatments a healthcare professional may recommend to help relieve symptoms of IBS. Some of these can include:

A person with IBS or malabsorption may want to consider contacting a healthcare professional if they experience any new symptoms, if symptoms persist, or get any worse.

If a person with IBS or malabsorption experiences any of the following symptoms, the NHS notes they should contact a healthcare professional immediately:

Several studies suggest that there may be a link between IBS and some types of malabsorption. However, some research suggests there is not enough evidence to conclude a direct link between the two conditions. Overall, researchers indicate that there is a need for more research in this area.

There are several treatment options for IBS and malabsorption, such as eating a balanced diet, avoiding known triggers, doing enough exercise, getting the right amount of sleep, taking medications, and trying complementary therapies.

If a person with IBS or malabsorption experiences any new, persisting, or worsening symptoms, they should consider speaking with a healthcare professional.