Lowdown on Low-FODMAPs

Food and the digestive system have a love/hate relationship. For most women, it’s a part of life. But if you have irritable bowel syndrome or another digestive disorder, it’s a problem. A low-FODMAP diet may help.

What Are FODMAPs?

If your gastroenterologist diagnosed you with IBS, chances are they recommended a low-FODMAP diet to help manage your symptoms.

FODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides And Polyols. These are specific carbohydrates found in many of the foods you eat. There are low-FODMAP foods and high-FODMAP foods. High-FODMAP foods can cause diarrhea, constipation, gas, bloating and cramping. A low-FODMAP diet restricts high-FODMAP foods.

The diet has two phases: 1) Elimination and 2) Reintroduction. The two-phase process helps determine which foods your body can tolerate and which foods trigger symptoms. It’s a multi-week process that requires a bit of a commitment.

Should You Try a Low-FODMAP Diet?

If you don’t have a medically-diagnosed digestive disorder, the low-FODMAP diet probably isn’t for you. If you have IBS with ongoing symptoms that you are unable to manage through stress management methods or basic food restrictions like limiting alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods and other common triggers, you might consider giving this a try.

The low-FODMAP diet is complex. Our registered dietitians can help you get started, offer support and provide additional resources. Our outpatient nutrition counseling services require a doctor referral.