Background
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a disorder of the gut-brain interaction, is associated with significant symptom burden and impaired psychosocial functioning. Evidence-based behavioral therapies are effective, but often underutilized due to accessibility barriers. Mobile health is an emerging field with the potential to bridge the gap between the needs of individuals with IBS and the limitations of the healthcare system. This study evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of the LyfeMD app plus health coaching (HC) in improving IBS symptom severity and psychosocial wellbeing.
Methods
This 12-week interventional pilot study evaluated the effectiveness of a mobile application combined with HC in adults diagnosed with IBS. Participants were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks using validated surveys to assess symptom severity, psychosocial wellbeing, diet, physical activity, and sleep. A Fitbit was also used to track physical activity and sleep.
Results
Thirty-nine participants completed the 12-week intervention. IBS symptom severity improved significantly (p < 0.001) over the 12-week period, with 63.2% of the participants having a clinically meaningful improvement in their symptoms. In addition to symptom severity, participants improved in all measured psychosocial domains and their subjective sleep quality at 12 weeks.
Conclusion
In summary, the LyfeMD platform, in combination with HC, shows potential in improving IBS symptom severity, psychosocial well-being, and sleep quality in individuals diagnosed with IBS. These findings highlight the potential of mobile health as a complement to traditional medical care. Further research, including randomized controlled trials with extended follow-up, is needed to confirm findings and the sustainability of these outcomes.