Those with digestion issues such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) know all too well the discomfort of abdominal pain, intestinal gas and bloating that can occur after eating certain foods.
Thankfully, the recently popularized low FODMAP diet has proven effective for reducing these symptoms. In fact, it is increasingly being accepted and recommended as a dietary therapy for IBS by physicians. Before giving the low FODMAP diet a try, here are six important things to know.
1. What Are FODMAPs?
FODMAP is an acronym used to describe certain carbohydrates—specifically the short-chain variety—found in foods. According to FodmapFriendly.com, it stands for:
Fermentable
Oligosaccharides
Disaccharides
Monosaccharides
and
Polyols
In those who suffer from digestion problems like IBS, the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders says FODMAPs “are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and rapidly fermented by bacteria in the gut.” The gas produced by these bacteria is a primary cause of the disorder’s symptoms.
