What are FODMAPs?
FODMAPs are a group of short-chain carbohydrates found in everyday foods such as pasta, bread, onions, garlic, beans, milk, apples, honey and mangoes. FODMAPs are commonly malabsorbed in the small intestine, causing uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation in those suffering with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
What is the Low FODMAP diet?
The Low FODMAP diet was first defined in 2004 by researchers at Monash University, in Australia. It categorizes FODMAP foods that trigger gastrointestinal problems according to the type of carbohydrate they contain, i.e., Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols.
Examples of High FODMAP Foods
Who benefits from a Low FODMAP diet?
The Low FODMAP diet is the go-to dietary intervention for those suffering with IBS. 45 million Americans (1 billion worldwide) suffer from IBS. There are 15 times more people who suffer from IBS than celiac disease which gave rise to the gluten-free diet. Studies show that following a Low FODMAP diet can provide complete symptom relief for up to 75% of people suffering from IBS, which is characterized by recurrent episodes of lower abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation.
