What is the FODMAP diet ?

What is the FODMAP diet ?

The FODMAP diet is not one of those faddy diets but it is a way of eating which might just help those trying to manage their digestive issues. The term ‘FODMAP’ is an acronym for Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Mono-saccharides, and Polyols.

The title itself seems intractable. What does it all mean ? For many nutritionists FODMAPs refers to naturally occurring short-chain carbohydrates that are generally not well absorbed in the small intestine. It means that for many of us, foods usually prevent digestive problems because such food promotes good bugs that make up our intestinal microbiomes. 

If you have a healthy digestive system, then FODMAPs are great for your gut and it is wise to consume foods that fit the definition. One of the key foods happens to be  dietary fibre because it aids digestion in so many ways as well as providing bulk and feeding our gut flora and fauna.

The Best Foods For A High FODMAP Diet

Consider these foods:- 

fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, pulses, dairy, gluten and non-gluten grains. The artificial sweeteners also contain FODMAPs.

Most of these foods  such as beans, pulses, grains etc. are high in dietary fibre or high in FODMAPs. The nuts and seeds are the opposite. They are low in FODMAPs but they are still important for our health. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower are high FODMAP, as well as members of the onion family, including garlic.