🍽️ low fodmap diet

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): The low FODMAP diet is primarily used to manage symptoms of IBS, a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits. Research suggests that reducing FODMAP intake can help alleviate symptoms in many individuals with IBS, particularly those with diarrhea-predominant or mixed-type IBS. By minimizing the consumption of high-FODMAP foods like certain fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products, and sweeteners, individuals may experience symptom relief and improved quality of life.

Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs): In addition to IBS, the low FODMAP diet may benefit individuals with other functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as functional dyspepsia and functional bloating. These conditions are characterized by chronic or recurrent gastrointestinal symptoms without evidence of structural or biochemical abnormalities. By reducing the intake of fermentable carbohydrates that can trigger symptoms, individuals with FGIDs may experience symptom improvement and better gastrointestinal function.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): While the low FODMAP diet is not typically recommended as a first-line treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, some individuals with IBD may also experience symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort that can be exacerbated by certain high-FODMAP foods. In such cases, a low FODMAP diet may be used as part of a broader dietary approach to manage gastrointestinal symptoms and improve quality of life, although it should be implemented under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth occurs when there is an abnormal increase in the number or type of bacteria in the small intestine, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Since many high-FODMAP foods can exacerbate SIBO symptoms by providing substrate for bacterial fermentation, a low FODMAP diet may be recommended as part of the treatment plan to reduce symptoms and bacterial overgrowth.

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS): Some individuals who experience gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming gluten-containing foods but do not have celiac disease may have non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). While the specific mechanism of NCGS is not fully understood, research suggests that FODMAPs present in wheat and other gluten-containing grains may contribute to symptoms in some individuals. Therefore, following a low FODMAP diet that restricts certain gluten-containing foods may help alleviate symptoms in individuals with NCGS.

Athletes and Exercisers: Some athletes and exercisers may experience gastrointestinal distress during or after intense physical activity, which can be exacerbated by high-FODMAP foods. For these individuals, following a low FODMAP diet may help reduce gastrointestinal symptoms and improve exercise tolerance and performance.