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

NCT ID NCT04830410

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Sahlgrenska University Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME WITH DIARRHEA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Sahlgrenska University Hospital

Gothenburg, Sweden

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