Tucsonans experiencing irritable bowel symptoms multiple times a week are invited to participate in a new clinical study conducted by the University of Arizona.

Medical professionals are seeking 100 people for this study meant to evaluate the effects of a common food additive on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This disorder is commonly associated with cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea.

According to a news release, this clinical study requires participants between the ages of 18 to 75-years-old who will be asked to alter their eating habits for a month.

“No drugs currently on the market seem to bring full symptom relief to people suffering from IBS,” Kathleen Holton, MPH, alumna of the UA College of Public Health and current doctoral student in the UA Department of Nutritional Sciences. “We hope the study will shed light on whether IBS symptoms can be controlled through dietary change alone.”

The UA news release reveals IBS affects between 25 and 55 million people in the country and translates into 2.5 to 3.5 million visits a year to physicians.

Those interested in participating in this study should contact Kathleen Holton at (520) 869-2448, or email kholton@email.arizona.edu.