Hidden Food Sensitivities and IBS: What One Study Found

Educational only — not medical advice.

Research published in the Annals of Allergy (June 1985;54:538–540) explored whether hidden food sensitivities might contribute to symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study evaluated 24 individuals with IBS, half of whom also had allergies or a tendency toward sudden allergic reactions.

Study Details

  • Yeast findings: Stool samples showed Candida albicans or Geotrichum candidum in 11 of the 24 subjects.

  • Diet intervention: Participants were placed on a hypoallergenic diet, avoiding common triggers such as gluten and dairy.

    • Allowed foods included fish, rice, apricots, and mineral water.

    • Bread alternatives were made from corn or soybeans.

  • Reintroduction phase: Foods were added back gradually to identify reactions.

What Happened?

  • 7 patients identified specific foods that triggered IBS symptoms.

  • 7 patients saw no change with dietary intervention.

  • 3 patients improved on the hypoallergenic diet but did not relapse when foods were reintroduced.

  • 10 patients were completely symptom-free by the end of the study.

Conclusion

The authors suggest that it may be worthwhile to investigate hidden food sensitivities in IBS patients—especially those who also show allergic tendencies.