Fructans under the microscope: can IBS patients tolerate this common food component?

NCT ID NCT04830410

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at whether fructans, a type of carbohydrate found in foods like wheat, onion, and garlic, trigger symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with diarrhea. 65 participants followed a low FODMAP diet for 14 days, then reintroduced either fructan or placebo powder. Researchers measured symptom severity, gas production, and gut health to see if fructans cause problems and who might be more sensitive.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

fructan powder

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help identify which IBS patients can safely add fructans back into their diet without triggering symptoms.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed study with only 65 participants. Results may not apply to all IBS patients, and fructans may still cause symptoms in some individuals.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

irritable bowel syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Sahlgrenska University Hospital

    Gothenburg, Sweden