Low-FODMAP Diet

Definition

A Low-FODMAP Diet is a temporary eating plan aimed at removing certain types of carbohydrates that can cause digestive distress in some people.

Scientific / Technical Definition

The Low-FODMAP Diet is designed to eliminate foods containing fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, which are poorly absorbed by the small intestine, potentially leading to increased fermentation and osmosis in the gut, thereby causing symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Benefits

• Reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Decreases bloating and gas
• Improves general digestive health

Examples

• Strictly avoiding foods like garlic and onions initially
• Including low-FODMAP foods like eggs, meat, and certain fruits
• Reintroducing restricted foods to assess tolerance over time

Additional Information

• Known issues: The diet can be very restrictive, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies if not managed properly.

Related Terms

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• FODMAP
• Digestive Health
• Gut Microbiome

References

• Monash University Low-FODMAP Diet
• Low FODMAP diet improves irritable bowel syndrome symptoms: A meta-analysis