A novel diet may offer a solution for individuals suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a challenging condition that can be difficult to identify the cause of, making life miserable for those affected. Approximately one in ten people suffer from IBS, particularly in developed countries.

IBS can manifest as frequent diarrhea, chronic constipation, or a combination of both, accompanied by symptoms such as bloating, nausea, stomach pain, and intestinal gas.

Researchers have long struggled to understand and manage IBS, but there is new hope with the emergence of the FODMAP diet.

The FODMAP diet aims to alleviate IBS symptoms by eliminating foods containing fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs).

While the FODMAP diet can improve symptoms in 50 to 80 percent of individuals, it restricts many fruits and vegetables typically considered healthy due to their high FODMAP content.

After an initial phase of strict FODMAP reduction, individuals are advised to gradually reintroduce FODMAP-containing foods to determine tolerance levels without triggering IBS symptoms.

Research has shown promising results for IBS management through the FODMAP diet, with significant improvements reported in bowel issues such as bloating, diarrhea, and urgency of bowel movements.

For those struggling with IBS symptoms, exploring the FODMAP diet, although challenging to follow, may offer relief. Researcher Shanti Eswaran suggests delving deeper into the chemistry behind individual responses to different foods.

Sticking to the FODMAP diet can be demanding, as complete elimination of FODMAPs is not possible, only a significant reduction. Monash University in Australia provides valuable resources on FODMAPs, including a smartphone app with food lists, rankings, recipes, and information on IBS.

For further details on the Monash app, visit https://www.monashfodmap.com/get-app-help/.

Alternatively, lists of high and low FODMAP foods can be accessed at the following links:

The FODMAP diet typically involves three phases, as recommended by Monash researchers:

  • Two to six weeks of consuming only very low FODMAP foods
  • Eight to twelve weeks of cautiously introducing new FODMAP-containing foods one at a time
  • Establishing a personalized diet that excludes problematic foods

Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable dietitian can enhance the success of the FODMAP diet for individuals dealing with IBS.

Written by: Susan Parker

Susan Parker is a 49-year-old Senior Manager at a marketing firm. With two older children becoming more independent, she is now focusing on her own health and wellbeing. She’s passionate about natural and holistic health approaches, and values high-quality, trustworthy products. Susan enjoys yoga, gardening, reading, and cooking, and seeks to stay energetic and sharp while balancing a busy career and personal life.

Reviewed by: Susan Parker