Effect of a Lacto-ovo Vegetarian Diet on Fasting Small Intestinal Motility

Abstract

Background: Changes in diet can alter gastric and small intestinal (SI) motility. The effects of a vegetarian diet on fasting SI motility are unknown. Methods: Manometric studies were performed in 9 lacto-ovo vegetarians (7 women) and 9 omnivores (7 women) of similar age and body mass index. On each study day, manometry was used to assess SI motility for 5 h, or 3 complete cycles of the interdigestive motor complex (IDMC). Lacto-ovo vegetarians were studied once; omnivores were studied twice, on their usual diet, and after consuming a 14-day lacto-ovo vegetarian diet. Diet diaries were kept for 5 days prior to each manometric study. Data were analysed for dietary composition and for cycle length and duration of each phase (I, II and III) of the IDMC. Results:

• Fibre Intake Interdigestive Motor Complex Phase I Phase Ii Phase Iii Vegetarian Diet