FODMAP - quick guide

Firstly, anyone undergoing the FODMAP regimen should seek professional support. This eating style requires elimination of certain foods, which could lead to malnourishment  if not properly applied.

Quick guide to FODMAP

FODMAP is an acronym for ‘Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols’.

They can cause symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, gas and bloating.

FODMAPs pass through the stomach and digestive system without changing. Bowel bacteria will then digest the FODMAPs which lead to them releasing gas as a bi-product of their digestion.

The Low FODMAP diet should not be followed for life; it should be a 6–8 week managed programme.

Peoples' sensitivity can vary a great deal between individuals, so one person’s FOMAP plan will differ to anothers. Factors such as ethnicity, age and overall health can all effect digestion and therefore FODMAP plan.

Inadequately absorbed sugars move through into the small intestine and then the colon. Bacteria in the colon are able to access these sugars which causes fermentation. The resulting gas can further irritate a sensitive bowel.

Lactose, polyols and Fructose can retain water in the colon which in turn could result in loose bowels and/or diarrhoea.

Quick FODMAP food list

This is not definitive, it is simply a guide to some likely suspects. Professional guidance should be sought when introducing a FODMAP plan.

Vegetables – bulb type vegetables such as onion (incl. shallots) and garlic, pulses such as beans, lentils and peas and brassicas (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, sprouts)

Grains – wheat is a common problem with some individuals.

Mik – lactose containing foods and products can cause problems for individuals who are lactose deficient

Fruit – fruits containing stones are the largest problems generally. Concentrated fruit juice

Sorbitol – found in chewing gum and some sugar free sweets

Corn syrup – this is high in fructose and is used in some ready meals and drinks for flavour

www.kcl.ac.uk Is the Kings College Hospital website where you can find information with regards to FODMAP.