---
title: "Is a Low FODMAP Diet the Solution to Your Digestive Troubles?"
entity: "blog"
canonical_url: "https://www.drgri.com/blog/is-a-low-fodmap-diet-the-solution-to-your-digestive-troubles"
markdown_url: "https://www.drgri.com/llms/blog/is-a-low-fodmap-diet-the-solution-to-your-digestive-troubles"
lastmod: "2020-08-06T04:00:00.000Z"
---

The FODMAP diet is gaining traction as a new way to manage common digestive issues such as bloating, gas and loose bowel movements often experienced by those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorders affecting approximately 15% of people worldwide. Symptoms such as cramping, gas, bloating, and diarrhea often interfere with one’s ability to go to work, attend social functions, and can have a significant effect on a person’s quality of life. The low FODMAP diet is a promising new approach that has been shown to improve symptoms of gas, bloating and loose stools in 75% of those who follow it.

FODMAP stands for for “ F ermentable O ligo-, D i-, M ono-saccharides A nd P olyols”. They
are a group of short chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed and digested
in the intestines. When FODMAP foods enter the small and large intestine, they
attract water and are fermented by gut bacteria. This process occurs in all
people, but the difference is that people with IBS often have alterations in
their gut bacteria, which make them more likely to experience symptoms upon
eating high FODMAP foods.

By following a low FODMAP diet, you are
removing the foods that feed your gut bacteria, thereby reducing the process of
malabsorption and fermentation. While many people with IBS experience
significant improvements in their symptoms when following this diet, the
solution isn’t to stay on a low FODMAP diet for the rest of your life. Rather,
the goal is to restore the health of the digestive tract and rebalance the gut
bacteria so you can enjoy a wide variety of food again. This is achieved
through a gradual reintroduction plan and supplementation to support the gut
lining and microbiome. Addressing other lifestyle factors such as sleep and
stress are also key to symptom resolution.

Due to the restrictive nature of the
low FODMAP diet, it is important to follow this plan under the guidance of your
healthcare practitioner. Nutrient deficiencies, constipation, and a further
reduction in healthy gut bacteria are potential long-term consequences of a low
FODMAP diet. Remember, the goal is to help you enjoy the largest variety foods
with the least amount of stress as possible!

Looking to learn more? [Click here to book an appointment with Dr. Gri, ND](https://drgri.janeapp.com/#staff_member/1).

References:

https://academic.oup.com/jcag/article/2/1/6/5290372
https://www.monashfodmap.com/

Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen. The content shared here is based on the author’s research and personal experiences, and individual results may vary. The author and blog are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed on this site.