Effects of FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, and Mono-saccharides, And Polyols) on Small Bowel Water Content: an MRI Study

Detailed Summary

Some carbohydrates, particularly fructose, the sugar found in fruit and bread may cause bloating, pain and erratic bowel habits (diarrhoea and constipation) particularly in patients suffering from the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This may be because they are not well absorbed in the small intestine and cause water to be trapped in the bowel causing distension. Studies have shown that reducing the amount of these sugars in the diet can relieve these symptoms. There is some evidence that combining fructose and glucose can reduce the symptoms caused by fructose but just why is unclear. In this study, the investigators will use a non invasive medical imaging technique called "magnetic resonance imaging" (or MRI) to look at the behaviour of drinks containing these sugars in the bowels of healthy human volunteers. The investigators will give four different drinks: one beverage consisting of a very well absorbed sugar, glucose, another consisting of the less well absorbed sugar fructose, a third which is a mixture of glucose and fructose, and a fourth consisting of several fructose subunits joined together (called fructan). The investigators will take MRI images of the stomach and intestines at intervals for 5 hours and compare these with the feelings of distension and bloating in our volunteers. The results will act as control for subsequent studies in IBS patients and these may help design diets to reduce symptoms in IBS.

Study Details

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Interventions