Study - Low FODMAP foods linked to improved symptoms in Irritable Bowel Syndrome

A low FODMAP* foods plan was 33% more likely to improve symptoms (pain, bloating, and bowel habits) than a usual diet—superior to 11 other IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) meal-plan diets tested for IBS symptom control. 

Dr. Neuman: In people with IBS, FODMAP consumption can produce symptoms of bloating, pain, diarrhea, constipation, excessive gas, or a combination. IBS stinks. For most, they are happy to be on a more restrictive diet. Whether one should partake in the diet depends on how bad the symptoms are and how much people would miss the foods. This is a frequent conversation I have, and everyone’s line is different. Most are happy to try the full restriction for 4-6 weeks and gently re-introduce foods individually to see if they can identify problem foods or liberalize their restrictive diet without symptoms coming back.

*FODMAP is an acronym for different sugars that are harder for the gut to digest - fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols.

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Does this apply to you?

IBS is quite common and has a variable impact on quality of life. Some people are terrorized, while others barely notice. Please reach out if you would like to discuss whether you have IBS/if you would like to discuss tools to help with symptoms.