Diet therapy with FODMAPS restriction has benefits in Fibromyalgia?

Abstract

Rationale: The effects of a diet restriction in FODMAPs (Fermentable oligo-di-monosaccharides polyols) is being studied on the symptoms of Fibromyalgia (FM) and its impact on quality of life (QOL) besides the effect on gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. High prevalence of functional GI disorders is found in FM and Low FODMAP Diet has growing scientific evidence as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) therapy. Methods: Interventional study with 36 patients with FM according to the American College Rheumatology criteria on a controlled restricted FODMAPs diet for 4 weeks. Assessed before (Moment1) and after (Moment2) dietary intervention by VAS (Visual Analogic Scale), RFIQ (Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire), IBS_SSS (Severity Score System) and Euro-QOL. The daily consumption of FODMAPs was quantified in the diets. T-student tests applied. Results: The preliminary results show significant improvement in the GI symptoms (35 patients with IBS criterion), improvement in pain symptoms and in FM Impact associated with QOL. Average scores respectively evaluated at 1 and 2 moments: IBS_SSS 269 and 137 (p < 0. 05), VAS Pain score 6.8 and 5.2 (p < 0.05), RFIQ score 64.8 and 50.3 (p < 0. 05); Euro-QOL of 46.7 and 57 (p < 0.05). FODMAPs intake without restriction is average 25 gr/day and with restriction 2.5 g/day (p < 0.05). The average rate of compliance to the diet was 86% and satisfaction with the diet was 77%. Consumption of diet FODMAPs compared with the prescribed FODMAP values confirmed measured adherence to the diet by no significant difference between them (p = 0.114) Conclusion: There is a very positive impact on GI and pain symptoms of FM and on the QOL of such patients by prescription of a diet therapy with FODMAPs restriction. This is a stimulus for larger studies in this area of diet therapy as complementary therapy in fibromyalgia.