[Editorial] Bridging the evidence gap in dietary approaches to gut disorders

An estimated one in ten people are living with constipation at any point in time. Chronic constipation has a substantial impact on the quality of life of those affected and is also associated with considerable economic impact, both in terms of direct costs and loss of productivity. Individuals living with disorders of gut–brain interaction such as chronic constipation often express a preference for dietary interventions as a first-line treatment approach, perhaps in recognition that food can be a trigger of symptoms, or because dietary management gives a greater sense of control and could be associated with fewer side-effects than medical therapy.