Low FODMAPS

FODMAPS are fermentable carbohydrate, an acronym for: Fermentable, Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, Polyols. FODMAPS include: lactose in dairy, beans and legumes, xylitol, and fructose in fruits and vegetables like apple, pears, and onion.  FODMAPS can

The Low FODMAPS Diet avoids these foods high in fermentable carbohydrates.

FODMAPS pull water into the bowel and the bacteria feed on the fermentable carbohydrates creating gas.  For some people, FODMAPS can cause strong digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, gas and bloating. Studies have shown the Low FODMAPS Diet to be helpful with Crohn’s & Colitis 1, 2.  For people with SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth), FODMAPS feed this bacterial infection causing gas and other symptoms, making people with SIBO more sensitive to FODMAPS.

Since so many children with autism and other developmental delays have digestive issues, for those that have problems with FODMAPS, this diet can be helpful to support gut function and healing.

 

1. Gibson, Peter R., and Susan J. Shepherd. “Evidence‐based dietary management of functional gastrointestinal symptoms: The FODMAP approach.” Journal of gastroenterology and hepatology 25.2 (2009): 252-258.

2. Gearry, Richard B., et al. “Reduction of dietary poorly absorbed short-chain carbohydrates (FODMAPs) improves abdominal symptoms in patients with inflammatory bowel disease—a pilot study.” Journal of Crohn’s and Colitis 3.1 (2009): 8-14.