A nutrition expert has clarified the benefits of the low FODMAP diet, stating it is one of the few diets backed by science to help relieve IBS symptoms. Amid the flood of social media endorsements for various “restrictive and unhealthy diets for gut health and digestion,” Arti’s insights offer a reliable solution.
Arti Dhokia, affiliated with Midland Health, stated: “The low FODMAP diet is a temporary plan designed to alleviate digestive symptoms. It limits intake of foods high in FODMAPs, a type of short-chain carbohydrates that the small intestine often cannot absorb well, leading to issues like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.”
“As FODMAPs journey through the digestive tract, they tend not to be absorbed; instead, they draw water and gut bacteria, increasing fluid and gas. This leads to the stretching and swelling of the intestinal walls, causing pain, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues.”
“This diet is recommended for individuals with digestive challenges looking to pinpoint the root cause. It’s particularly beneficial for those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a persistent condition that can be managed through dietary changes.”
“The process involves eliminating certain foods for about two to six weeks before gradually reintroducing them. By adding a new food every three days and observing any symptoms, you can determine which ones trigger digestive issues. Once identified, you can avoid these trigger foods.”
Short-term diet
Arti concluded: “The low FODMAP diet serves as a temporary approach to discover and manage food triggers of digestive issues. It is not meant as a permanent solution, as symptoms should subside swiftly when the digestive system is allowed to rest.”
“High FODMAP foods to limit or avoid completely include wheat-based bread, pasta, and cereal, most dairy products, legumes, apples, dried fruit, onions, mushrooms and garlic.
“Low FODMAP foods high in protein are eggs, tofu, fish, chicken and beef. Bananas, blueberries, carrots, potatoes, spinach, rice, oats, and certain cheeses are also low FODMAP and can be enjoyed on the diet.
“It’s so important on any diet to ensure you’re getting the right nutrients and still managing to enjoy balanced meals. The low FODMAP diet should always be done under the supervision of a specialist dietitian.”
