FODMAP

FODMAPs are carbohydrates (sugars) that are found in foods. Not all carbohydrates are considered FODMAPs.

The FODMAPs in the diet are:

• Fructose (fruits, honey, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), etc)

• Lactose (dairy)

• Fructans (wheat, onion, garlic, etc)(fructans are also known as inulin)

• Galactans (beans, lentils, legumes such as soy, etc)

• Polyols (sweeteners containing sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, maltitol, stone fruits such as avocado, apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches, plums, etc)

FODMAPs are osmotic (means they pull water into the intestinal tract), and may not be digested or absorbed well and could be fermented upon by bacteria in the intestinal tract when eaten in excess.

Symptoms of gas, bloating, cramping and/or diarrhea may occur in those who could be sensitive to the effects of FODMAPs.

A low FODMAP diet may help reduce symptoms, which will limit foods high in fructose, lactose, fructans, galactans and polyols.

The low FODMAP diet is often used in those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The diet also has potential use in those with similar symptoms arising from other digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease.