The ‘low-FODMAP’ diet is something which has been the topic of conversation among many health professionals recently and is often recommended for people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). FODMAPs are short-chain carbohydrates found in a variety foods that we eat everyday like milk, fruit and vegetables and grains. If FODMAPs are not digested properly they can ferment in the digestive system and cause distress.
The low FODMAP diet involves firstly, an elimination phase, whereby all FODMAPs are eliminated from the diet for at least 3 weeks. This stage is very restrictive but is necessary for the second phase. The second stage involves a gradual reintroduction of FODMAPs until symptoms reoccur. This way you can find out which FODMAPs trigger symptoms and eliminate them from your daily diet.
To check for FODMAPs on food labels watch out for:
Fructose, lactose, galactans, polyols and fructans.
As with any food, portion control is key. Too much of any FODMAP food may cause symptoms. Get to know recommended portion sizes for food and maintain a healthy balanced diet.
