Mindfulness-based stress reduction improves irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms via specific aspects of mindfulness.
Bruce D NaliboffSuzanne R SmithJohn G SerpaKelsey T LairdJean StainsLynn S ConnollyJennifer S LabusKirsten TillischPublished in: Neurogastroenterology and motility : the official journal of the European Gastrointestinal Motility Society (2020)
Mindfulness-based stress reduction training was associated with robust improvements in GI symptoms and associated problems in participants with IBS. Although significant increases in 3 of the 5 measured facets of mindfulness were found, regression analyses suggest that increases in the ability to retain present moment focus and act with awareness may be particularly important for improving outcomes in individuals with IBS. These results may inform the refinement of mindfulness-based protocols specifically for treatment of IBS.