Small bowel dysbiosis (SBD), is a frequent finding in subjects with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The formula-tion in sunflower lecithin (Phytosome) of Curcuma longa and Boswellia serrata demonstrated beneficial effects on intestinal microbiota. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a lecithin-based delivery formulation of Curcuma longa and of Boswellia serrata extracts (CUBO), on SBD in IBS subjects.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age ranging from 18 to 70 years;
• diagnosis of moderate IBS according to Rome IV criteria;
• dysbiosis of the small bowel, defined by increased urinary indican values with normal values of urinary skatole;
• evidence of abdominal bloating and abdominal pain

Exclusion Criteria:

• normal values of urinary indican or increased values of urinary skatole ;
• subjects who were already on a low FODMAP diet (LFD) or other dietary prescription, such as lactose or gluten free diet in the last 6 months;
• insulin-dependent diabetes or seafood, nuts or soy allergies ;
• positive history of symptomatic diverticular disease, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease or microscopic colitis;
• colonic or small bowel or gallbladder surgery ;
• severe vomiting or bloody diarrhea ;
• liver disease (defined as altered values of liver function tests) or severe renal disease (defined as serum creatinine >1.5 mg/dL) or treatment with antibiotics, excluding those for topical use, within the last three months