Our gut is the unsung hero of our health and well-being. This hard-working organ is responsible for not only nourishing our body, but also housing much of our immune system and playing a significant role in our brain and mood health. When this organ is impaired, our health can suffer. Without a well-functioning digestive system, the body struggles to pass along nutrients to our cells. Unfortunately, having an unhappy gut is very common. It is estimated that approximately 10-20% of adults in Western countries have irritable bowel symptoms (IBS) (1). These include gas, bloating, diarrhea, cramping and constipation— symptoms that indicate our digestion is less than optimal. Fortunately, eating the right food can reverse and improve these symptoms. By healing your gut you are on the path of healing the rest of your body.

A common approach for treating IBS is the Low FODMAP diet. This diet was initially developed by Monash University in Melbourne, Australia. It is well documented and used throughout the world for IBS and other GI disorders (2). FODMAP stands for Fermented Oligosaccharides, Dissaccarides, Monosaccharides and Polyols. This is a group of small and medium-chain carbohydrates and sugar alcohols found either naturally or artificially in food. Examples of these include: wheat (oligosaccharide), dairy (dissaccharide), high fructose corn syrup (monosaccharide) and sorbitol (polyol). For a more complete list, please see this FODMAP guide.

These FODMAP carbohydrates can ferment in the gut and cause the gas, bloating and distention symptoms that are characteristic of IBS. Additionally, these carbohydrates are highly osmotic and pull water into the digestive tract changing the way your gut moves. As a result IBS sufferers may experience diarrhea or constipation. To initiate the diet, you remove all FODMAPs for a short period of time. Eventually the FODMAP foods are reintroduced in a slow and methodic manner to keep GI symptoms at bay.

Do you wonder if a Low FODMAP diet is right for you? Generally speaking, nearly all healing starts with your diet, lifestyle changes and restoring any deficient nutrients. However, for any treatment its important to evaluate your total health, risk factors, mood and emotions. At Relish Health Dr. Erica Leazenby will discuss your individual digestive symptoms and help determine the best approach for you.

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