Professor Amanda Devine, Dr Tina Yan, Associate Professor Claus Chrostophersen.
Researchers from Edith Cowan University (ECU) have developed a dietary fibre powder, ur gut®, to assist people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to maintain a healthy bowel.
ur gut® is a unique blend of dietary fibres carefully chosen to support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, with clinical trials showing improved gut and mental health outcomes for people living with IBS.
IBS is a common gut issue which affects nearly 11% of Australians, and while there is currently no known cause, potential triggers could include stress, infection and medication.
ur gut® was developed after identifying a market gap through research with IBS cohorts. While participants can often reduce gut symptoms with restrictive dietary strategies, these approaches may have long-term consequences for gut health if they do not transition back to a diet aligned with Australian guidelines.
ur gut® has been tested at ECU and demonstrated to improve gut health without exacerbating IBS symptoms, thanks to its unique fibre blend. In ECU's first clinical trial, they proved that ur gut® not only avoids worsening gut symptoms but also helps consumers achieve the recommended fibre intake, enhancing gut health through a beneficial gut microbiome and a positive shift in fermentation.
ur gut® was developed after identifying a market gap through research with IBS cohorts.
Professor of Public Health and Nutrition, Amanda Devine noted that four teaspoons of ur gut® daily would increase dietary fibre intake and boost gut health.
"ur gut® can be added to meals, snacks, and beverages, making it easy to incorporate into your daily dietary pattern. It's a great addition to your wellness routine, enhancing your digestion, immune function, and mood by nourishing your gut," Professor Devine said.
ECU ur gut® inventors Professor Devine and Associate Professor Claus Christophersen have been working since early 2019 to develop ur gut® alongside Dr Jo Rees, and Dr Tina Yan.
ur gut® is now available for purchase, and researchers from ECU have compiled a helpful cookbook to assist in incorporating the tasteless dietary fibre powder into a healthy diet.
