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.
The low-FODMAP diet — sometimes referred to simply as the FODMAP diet — is an eating plan specifically designed to help people manage the symptoms of IBS. Developed by a group of Australian research scientists, it has been proven extremely effective in reducing IBS symptoms when followed correctly.
Common IBS Symptoms
IBS is currently thought to affect between 25 and 45 million Americans and 10 to 15 percent of people worldwide. The broad range of possible IBS sufferers reflects the fact that many people who have the disease have not been diagnosed.
The symptoms of IBS include:
- Stomach pain or cramping
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Irregular bowel movements
- Disturbed sleep
- Anxiety
- Depression
The symptoms of IBS vary dramatically from one patient to the next and are often inconsistent. As such, many may chalk their symptoms up to an upset stomach or some other transient issue. This is why many people who have IBS are undiagnosed.