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Getting Started on the Low FODMAP Diet: Elimination Phase

Last updated on Aug 28th, 2017 Authored by Alana Scott     Reviewed by Kate Watson (RD)
How to survive the low FODMAP diet elimination phase

Figuring out what you can eat, what you can’t eat and then navigating the supermarket can all be overwhelming when starting the low FODMAP diet. This guide will talk you through what the low FODMAP elimination phase or restriction phase is and answer your low FODMAP diet questions to help you get symptom free faster.

Before You Start The Low FODMAP Elimination Phase

Before you start the low FODMAP diet, it is important that you stop and go and see your doctor and if possible a FODMAP trained dietitian.

Your doctor needs to rule out that your troubling GI symptoms are not being caused by other serious medical conditions like coeliac (celiac) disease, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, cancer or other medical conditions (1 2). Once you are on the low FODMAP diet, testing for some of these medical conditions can become more challenging.

The low FODMAP diet is a medical nutritional therapy used as a tool to help people with IBS manage their symptoms and understand food triggers. It’s restrictive and can be socially awkward so the diet isn’t the best option for everyone. It should also only be followed strictly for 2 to 6 weeks and then you can start re-challenging and re-introducing FODMAPs.

If possible, a registered dietitian with specialised knowledge of the low FODMAP diet can you help navigate the complexity of the diet while making sure you are get the nutritional requirements that your body needs (2). Your dietitian will also help you troubleshoot if your symptoms aren’t settling, before walking you through re-challenging and reintroducing high FODMAP food back into your diet.

What are FODMAPs?

If you are sitting there thinking FOD-what? Then you aren’t the only one… No FODMAP isn’t an acronym out of a sci-fi movie, nor is it the latest and greatest new candy flavour. In super simple terms FODMAPs are short chain carbohydrates (sugars). Don’t panic – the diet isn’t actually sugar free and you can still enjoy a low FODMAP treat! These FODMAPs naturally occur in a wide range of fruit, vegetables, cereals, grains, dairy products, legumes and pulses. The FODMAPs are poorly absorbed in our small intestines where they draw water into our bowels. Next the FODMAPs are fermented by our gut bacteria in our large intestines where they create gas, which triggers unpleasant GI symptoms.

Let’s break the FODMAP acronym down:

Fermentable

This is simply the process where our gut bacteria feast on the FODMAPs, breaking down the undigested carbohydrates to produce gas (hydrogen, methane and carbon dioxide) (7 8).


Oligo-Saccharides

This nasty sounding FODMAP group isn’t as scary when you break it down into it’s sub groups: fructans and galactans. Fructans (fructo-oligosaccharides or FOS) are commonly found in onion, garlic, wheat, rye, barley and dried fruit. Galactans (galacto-oligosaccharides or GOS) are often found in silken tofu, pistachios, cashews, legumes and pulses (7  8).

Have you ever wonder why beans make everyone fart? This is because humans weren’t born with the right enzymes to fully digest oligosaccharides, so they will make everyone gassy but only trigger IBS symptoms in some people (2 8).


 Di-Saccharides 

The only disaccharide you need to worry about is lactose which can be found in products derived from cow, sheep or goat’s milk. Lactose contains two sugar units that need to be ‘unzipped’ using an enzyme called lactase before our bodies can absorb it. If your gut lacks lactase enzymes then you will struggle to process high lactose products and they are likely to trigger symptoms.

Lactose is found in milk, yoghurt and soft cheese (7 8). The good news is that lactose free milk or yoghurt, hard cheeses and butter are all suitable for the low FODMAP diet.


Mono-Saccharides

This is simply fructose that is found in excess of glucose. To process fructose effectively our bodies need equal amounts of glucose to stop it being malabsorbed. This means on the low FODMAP diet we only worry about foods containing excess fructose like apples, pears, mango, honey, asparagus, and high fructose corn syrup.

Up to 30% to 40% of healthy individuals and people with IBS will malabsorb excess fructose (2 8).


And Polyols

Polyols are sugar alcohols but they won’t make you drunk. They are found in a wide range of fruit (apples, pears, stone fruit, lychee) and vegetables (mushrooms, cauliflower, sweet potato). They are also man-made and used in products as low calories artificial sweeteners like protein powders, chewing gum, and diabetic candy.

Polyols are only partially absorbed in our small intestines, the remaining polyols continue to our large intestine where they are fermented by our gut bacteria, causing issues for some people (2  8).


What is the Elimination Phase?

The low FODMAP diet is broken down into three phases: elimination (or low FODMAP phase), re-challenge and reintroduction, and then adapted FODMAP diet. The elimination or restriction phase is the initial phase of the low FODMAP diet where the goal is to significantly reduce your IBS symptoms through lowering the amount of FODMAPs you eat (5). To achieve this we need you to remove all high FODMAP foods from your diet and focus on eating low FODMAP foods and serving sizes instead.

It is recommended that you only stay in the restrictive phase for a 2 to 6 week period while you gain symptom control (6 7 8).  Once your symptoms are under control you can then start the reintroduction phase with the guidance of your dietitian. It’s important that you reintroduce some high FODMAP foods back into your diet as they are important for long term gut health.

Where do you find low FODMAP food lists & serving size information?

If you are working with a dietitan then they will normally provide you with a list of high and low FODMAP foods. Otherwise the Monash University FODMAP App or FODMAP Friendly App are great resources and have up-to-date lists of high and low FODMAP Foods.

The Monash app clearly indicates high and low FODMAP foods through a traffic light system, and gives safe serving sizes for each food (2). Their system works by rating foods as green (low FODMAP dose), orange (moderate FODMAP dose), and red (high FODMAP dose) (5). Monash University also produces a printed guide, The Monash University Low FODMAP Diet booklet.

The FODMAP Friendly app has a pass/fail system for each food which shows their FODMAP rating. You can also look at the FODMAP percentages for each food to see if the FODMAPs compound when you eat different foods together.

When undertaking the elimination phase, Monash University researchers recommend that you avoid the red foods/portion sizes, limit the orange foods/portion sizes, and eat mainly the green rated foods/portion sizes (5).  You can eat a number of green rated (low FODMAP) foods per meal, however it is important that check the suggested serving sizes, as some foods become high FODMAP in larger serves (5). You will find more information on the importance of serving sizes here.

Where do sneaky FODMAPs hide?

FODMAPs love to hide in processed products and many pre-made products and sauces contain high FODMAP ingredients. Look out for high FODMAP fruits/vegetables (particularly onions and garlic), high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), inulin, honey, and wheat (2 3). During the elimination phase it is recommended that you avoid high FODMAP ingredients if possible. When it comes to wheat, rye, and barley try to avoid products that list these ingredients as first to third in the ingredient list (3). For more information on how to read labels please read our Low FODMAP Guide To Reading Labels.

Is gluten a problem while on the low FODMAP diet?

There is often a lot of confusion around this point. Gluten is a protein and FODMAPs are carbohydrates. This means gluten does not need to be avoided, however gluten free products are often recommended while on the diet. This is because wheat, rye and barley which contain gluten also contain oligosaccharides so eating gluten free helps you avoid these FODMAP sources. The goal is to limit the oligosaccharides and not the gluten (7). Small amounts of wheat can be low FODMAP and should not be a problem unless you also have coeliac disease. Not all gluten free products are FODMAP friendly as they can contain sneaky FODMAPs.

Are alcohol & caffeine allowed during the elimination phase?

While on the low FODMAP elimination phase it is often recommended that you limit your consumption of alcohol and caffeine  (1 2). While small amounts of caffeine and most alcohols are not high in FODMAPs, they can be gut irritants and can make IBS symptoms worse (1 2). This means you should test alcohol and caffeine in the reintroduction phase of the low FODMAP diet after talking to your dietitian.

Are you ready to take control of your gut symptoms?

YES I WANT TOO!

No thanks, my gut is perfect.

How do you deal with constipation on the low FODMAP diet?

The low FODMAP diet is lower in fibre which can be problematic for some people and cause constipation. This means you may need to increase low FODMAP fibre rich foods and your water intake (2). If you are struggling with constipation after starting the low FODMAP diet make sure you consult with your dietitian.

When do you reintroduce high FODMAP foods?

Once your symptoms are settled you can start re-challenging and re-introducing high FODMAP foods back into your diet after a 2 to 6 week period (6 7). Read our guide to reintroducing FODMAPs for more information.

Are A Little Bit Yummy’s recipes safe for the elimination phase?

A Little Bit Yummy’s recipes are based on the Monash Low FODMAP App serving size guidelines and have been checked by low FODMAP trained registered dietitian. This means the recipes are safe to use as a resource during the elimination phase.

If you have questions please feel free to contact me on Facebook or by email at [email protected]

More Tools to Help

We know that taming your gut symptoms can be challenging but we’re here to help! We can support you through your journey from starting the low FODMAP diet to reintroducing FODMAPs and finding your food freedom in our Wellness Club.

Explore our 600+ delicious low FODMAP recipes, plan your meals with our weekly meal plans, track your symptoms, and get extensive help for all the stages of the low FODMAP diet through our e-courses. All our resources are dietitian reviewed. So what are you waiting for? Come and join us in the Wellness Club!

Author: Alana Scott

In 2013, Alana was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. She also suffers from coeliac disease, is allergic to nuts and is intolerant to dairy products. This means she understands how difficult it can be to cook with multiple food intolerances. Her exp... Read More

Professional Reviewer: Kate Watson (RD)

Kate Watson is a FODMAP trained registered dietitian in the USA. She is the former co-founder and president of Nicer Foods, the first company in the US dedicated to making pre-made FODMAP friendly foods. Kate struggled with IBS for two decades until sh... Read More

SHOW REFERENCES

1. BPACnz. Irritable bowel syndrome in adults: Not just a gut feeling. Best Practice Journal. 2014: Issue 58. 14-25. Retrieved from http://www.bpac.org.nz/BPJ/2014/February/ibs.aspx

2. Monash University App. About Section & Food Guide. The Monash University Low FODMAP Diet App. 2014: Edition 4. Date retrieved: 2015-03-05. Retrieved from :http://www.med.monash.edu/cecs/gastro/fodmap/iphone-app.html. Accessed: 2015-03-05. (Archived by WebCite® at http://www.webcitation.org/6Wog73c8B)

3. Tuck C. Label reading – how to spot the FODMAPs. Monash Low FODMAP Blog. 2015-09-17. Retrieved from: http://fodmapmonash.blogspot.co.nz/2015/09/label-reading.html. Retrieved on: 2016-01-03. (Archived by WebCite® at http://www.webcitation.org/6eGzvOObl)

5. Muir, J. Talking About the Traffic Light System. Monash University Low FODMAP Blog. 2015-02-04. Retrieved from:http://fodmapmonash.blogspot.co.nz/2015/02/talking-about-traffic-light-system.html. Retrieved on: 2015-03-09. (Archived by WebCite® at http://www.webcitation.org/6WuPJC8Tu)

6. Williams, M. The Low FODMAP Diet for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Journal for Health Care Professionals. 2014. Retrieved from:http://www.drschaer-institute.com/smartedit/documents/download/dsif_02_2014_us_the_low_fodmap_diet_4.pdf. Retrieved on: 2015-03-09. (Archived by WebCite® at http://www.webcitation.org/6WuTYoHgd)

7. Monash University. Frequently Asked Questions. Monash University Low FODMAP Website. 2015. Retrieved from:http://www.med.monash.edu/cecs/gastro/fodmap/diet-and-ibs.html#5. Retrieved on: 2015-03-09. (Archived by WebCite® at http://www.webcitation.org/6WuTAniFE)

8. Mansueto, P., Seidita, A., D’Alcamo, A., Carroccio, A. Role of FODMAPs in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Review. Nutrition in Clincial Practice Journal. 2015-02-18. DOI: 10.1177/0884533615569886. Retrieved from http://ncp.sagepub.com/content/early/2015/02/17/0884533615569886

 

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Alana Scott

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Mar 1

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It’s meatless Monday! What’s on your dinner menu today? Leave me a comment below 👇

On our menu is a low FODMAP vegan chili.

#chilli #veganchile  #tummyfriendly #foodintolerances #ibs #fodmapfriendly #fodmap #glutenfree #glutenfreelife #coeliac #fodmap #lowfodmap #meatlessmonday #inmykitchen

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Feb 26

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End of summer veggies are the best and these roasted eggplants are call my name right now.

These are super simple too - roast the eggplant in oil, salt and pepper until golden and tender. Smother in golden sunshine tahini sauce and sprinkle with toasted seeds.

If you are low FODMAP the 1 small-medium eggplant = 4 servings.

Sunshine tahini dressing:
1 tsp garlic infused oil
1.5 tsp gluten free soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp water
3 tbsp tahini
1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup

Place in a jar and shake until well combined.

This recipe is part of our premium FODMAP recipe club (along with 700+ other low FODMAP recipes).

#lowfodmap #fodmap #roastedeggplant #aubergine #vegan #seasonalfood #glutenfreeliving #coeliac #foodintolerances #food52 #inmykitchen #nutfree #nutrition #plantbased

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Feb 22

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I'm stuck at the office and I'm staving! Definitely didn't pack enough snacks today... if I could I'd be drinking this right now.

Give me a ❤️ if you want to be drinking this too. Say hello to my low FODMAP strawberry and rhubarb smoothie.

Strawberries and rhubarb make the best smoothie buddies. It might sound like an odd combo but the tanginess of the rhubarb pairs super well with the sweetness from the strawberries to create a refreshing and vibrant drink.

1 serve 👇

🍓140 g (1 cup)fresh or frozen strawberries
🍓60 g (1/4 cup)stewed rhubarb
🍓250 ml (1 cup) low FODMAP milk 
🍓2 tsp pure maple syrup (add to taste) 
🍓1/2 tsp vanilla essence
🍓6 ice cubes (use if you are using fresh strawberries)

METHOD
Slice the strawberries in half, be super careful doing this if they are frozen. Place all the ingredients in the blender. Add the ice cubes if your strawberries aren’t frozen.

Blend until smooth. Taste and add a little bit more sweetener if it’s too tangy. The tanginess will depend on your stewed rhubarb (ours wasn’t sweetened).

Pour into your favourite glass and enjoy! 

FYI this recipe is also in our premium recipe club.

#lowfodmap #vegan #strawberries #rhubarb #strawberrysmoothie #fodmap #dairyfree #foodintolerances #ibsdiet #bloatfree #happytummy #nutrition #goodfood #fodmapfriendly #foodphotography #lowfodmapdiet #coeliac #glutenfreelife #foodblogger

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Feb 13

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It’s brunch time! It’s also Valentine’s Day so I thought I’d treat my man to a cooked breakfast. Say hello to my Greek scrambled eggs.
 
Serves 2:

1 medium-sized ripe tomato (diced or grated)
1 tbsp fresh chives (finely chopped)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
2 tsp garlic infused oil
2 tsp olive oil 
3 eggs (beaten)
Salt and pepper

Fry the diced tomato in the garlic infused oil for 2 to 3 minutes until the liquid reduces. Then add the olive oil, chives and parsley to the pan along with the beaten eggs. Season with salt and pepper. Move the egg mixture gently around the pan for 1 to 2 minutes until the eggs are cooked to your liking.

Serve on toast of your choice (we used gluten free bread). Enjoy!

Do you have a favourite brunch meal? Tell me below 👇

#FODMAP #brunch #valentinesday #lowfodmap #glutenfreerecipe #coeliac #foodintolerances #glutenfreelife #brunchdate #lowfodmaprecipe #dairyfree #foodphotographer #inmykitchen #scrambledeggs #eggs #breakfast #glutenfree

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Jan 29

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Who loves eating the rainbow for dinner? 🙌 I do! 

It's hot here at the moment which means rice paper rolls make a refreshing low FODMAP dinner option.

I love that you can prep all of the ingredients in advance so you don't have to slave over a hot stove in the evenings.

What's your go-to summer meal?

P.S. You can get the recipe on alittlebityummy.com or follow my profile link.
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Jan 28

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I have exciting news! I’m incredibly honoured to announce that I’ve been nominated as a semi-finalist for the 2021 Young New Zealander Of The Year award.

It’s a privilege supporting people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and other gut issues and I can’t wait to see what 2021 brings.

I also want to say thanks to the team behind the New Zealander of the Year Awards for making these awards possible.

@nzeroftheyear @kiwibanknz 
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#newzealanderoftheyear #nzeroftheyear #lowfodmap #coeliac #irritablebowelsyndrome #digitalhealth #telehealth #healthcare #fodmap #nutrition #guthealth
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Comments

  1. Jo Ann Pereira says

    April 29, 2019 at 8:01 pm

    Looks like I might finally find help .

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      May 2, 2019 at 9:33 pm

      Just let us know if you have questions Jo Ann. We’re here to help.

      Reply
  2. Minka D says

    July 4, 2019 at 7:48 pm

    Hi,
    We are new to the Fodmop diet. Do you know if my daughter could have fermented plant based drinks, made with almond milk? Thank you

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      July 4, 2019 at 8:20 pm

      Hi Minka,

      Fermented foods can be quite tricky on the low FODMAP diet because sometimes the fermentation process reduces the FODMAP content and sometimes it increases the FODMAP content. If your daughter has just started the low FODMAP diet then it might be better to leave that product out of her diet for a few weeks. Once you know if the low FODMAP diet is working you can test her tolerance levels to that product.

      Reply
  3. Audrey says

    July 18, 2019 at 7:49 am

    Hello! Thank you for the information C:
    I was recommended by my doctor to try the low-fodmaps elimination diet, and I am wondering if this will cause conflict with me being a vegetarian? Will I be able to get enough nutrients without meat or will I need to introduce meat into my diet to get by the elimination phase?

    Thank you for any advice <3

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      July 19, 2019 at 12:21 am

      Hi Audrey,

      It is possible to do the low FODMAP diet while eating vegetarian foods it just might take a bit more planning. Here are a couple of articles that might help:
      How to create a balanced vegetarian meal – https://alittlebityummy.com/how-to-create-a-balanced-low-fodmap-vegetarian-meal/
      Vegan protein sources – https://alittlebityummy.com/low-fodmap-vegan-protein-sources/
      You might also want to check out our Recipe Club which has over 200 vegetarian recipe options (some of these will contain some low FODMAP dairy or eggs): https://alittlebityummy.com/join-our-low-fodmap-club/
      Just let me know if you have more questions!

      Reply
  4. Susan puckett says

    September 11, 2019 at 2:06 am

    I love this site. Thank you for the hep and information

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      September 11, 2019 at 6:53 am

      You are so welcome Susan. Just let us know if there is anything we can do to help you on your journey.

      Reply
    • Sofia says

      September 16, 2019 at 3:15 am

      Hi! I am new to all this, I have been diagnosed with IBS and I am not a kitchen person, so the whole idea has me petrified… I don’t know where to start…

      Reply
      • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

        September 16, 2019 at 3:28 am

        Hi Sofia,

        We completely understand how overwhelming it can be. First off make sure you grab the Monash Low FODMAP App for your food lists. And secondly, if you want more support and to be guided through the 3 phases of the diet then check out our FODMAP Wellness Club for meal plans, 500+ low FODMAP recipes, e-courses and more: https://alittlebityummy.com/join-our-low-fodmap-club/

        Reply
  5. Nona Wright says

    September 19, 2019 at 10:12 pm

    I think I have figured out FODMAP, but what is an APP? Is it like half an apple that you are allowed when you cannot eat an apple?

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      September 20, 2019 at 6:29 am

      Hi Nona,

      An APP is a smartphone application. The APP we are referring to is the Monash University Low FODMAP Diet App and you can find more information about it here: https://www.monashfodmap.com/ibs-central/i-have-ibs/get-the-app/

      Reply
  6. Natalie says

    September 22, 2019 at 6:43 pm

    Are there any resources to find a FODMAP dietitian in Alaska or are there ones that work remotely? The Monash app does not list any options for Alaska.

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      September 22, 2019 at 10:46 pm

      Hi Natalie,

      Thanks for reaching out. I’ve been doing some research for you and I can’t find a FODMAP trained dietitian in Alaska either. However, I do have a couple of dietitians who can offer you consults remotely:

      1. USA based dietitian, Kate Watson: https://www.katewatsonrd.com
      2. Australian based dietitian, Joanna Baker: https://everydaynutrition.com.au/our-team/

      Reply
  7. Rita says

    September 22, 2019 at 11:32 pm

    Would this diet be good for a person with collagenous colitis also? Starting with an elimination diet?

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      September 23, 2019 at 7:49 pm

      Hi Rita, we would recommend that you have a chat with your medical team and a dietitian before starting the low FODMAP diet. Often other treatment strategies are needed first to manage colitis and the low FODMAP diet is only recommended in certain circumstances.

      Reply
  8. Bev Bunn says

    September 23, 2019 at 2:37 am

    Would this be helpful for someone with Diverticulitis?

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      September 23, 2019 at 7:47 pm

      Hi Bev, we would recommend that you have a chat with a dietitian and get them to make a recommendation based on your medical history. Currently, we need more research to see if the low FODMAP diet is useful for people with diverticulitis.

      Reply
  9. Lauren says

    November 29, 2019 at 12:49 pm

    Thank you for this simple breakdown! Are there any particular or special recommendations for people with IBS-C starting the low FODMAP elimination phase?

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      December 3, 2019 at 6:34 pm

      Hi Lauren,

      Thanks for commenting. IBS-C is a bit trickier to treat and it is likely that you will need to combine the low FODMAP diet with some other strategies to get good symptom relief. We talk about that a bit more in here: https://alittlebityummy.com/12-tips-for-managing-constipation/

      Reply
  10. Cindy says

    December 15, 2019 at 12:42 pm

    My Dr. Has suggested the FODMAP Diet. I started on Friday. Reading all the articles have helped me follow what to eat. (Recipes as well). How quickly will elimination start or for me to have regular BMs? Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      December 15, 2019 at 7:46 pm

      Hi Cindy,

      Everyone reacts differently to the low FODMAP diet. The FODMAP diet helps up to 75% of patients with IBS get good symptom control. How quickly you see changes might depend on a few factors – the type of IBS or gut issue you have, how quickly your remove high FODMAP foods, how good you are at spotting sneaky FODMAPs, and your ability to maintain good fibre intake. If you haven’t seen any positive changes within two weeks of starting the low FODMAP diet, then it will be time to chat to a FODMAP trained dietitian.

      Reply
  11. Joanne says

    January 10, 2020 at 1:41 pm

    Are there certain things/vitamins to help increase fiber intake? Any one specific I should look towards and/ or stay away from?

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      January 12, 2020 at 6:19 pm

      Hi Joanne,

      Thanks for leaving a comment! We have a couple of articles that talk about how to increase your fibre intake while on the low FODMAP diet:

      https://alittlebityummy.com/5-low-fodmap-ways-to-boost-your-fibre-intake/
      https://alittlebityummy.com/getting-enough-fibre-on-the-low-fodmap-diet/

      Reply
  12. Kim says

    June 30, 2020 at 12:50 pm

    Hi Alana,

    I happened upon your site and feel grateful to have a connection to experts and community.

    My GI instructed me to begin a FODMAP diet after a variety of testing. I was diagnosed with SIBO through a hydrogen breath test. I’ve also struggled with IBS for over 35 years. My GI did not recommend a dietician, but referred me to the University of Virginia FODMAP study and diet, and suggested the Align brand probiotics. I’ve read through the study, downloaded a helpful app called FODMAP (it’s free), and am taking probiotics. I’ve been in the elimination phase for almost a week and am already noticing some relief in my gut.

    My current question relates to the probiotic. Do you and your team agree with using a probiotic during the FODMAP elimination phase? If so, which strains and how much of each strain?

    Around two years ago, I self-initiated taking probiotics after rounds of antibiotics left me with symptoms of imbalanced flora. My general practitioner at the time told me to eat more fruits/vegetables, keep a food journal, eat more fiber, etc. Healthy, nutrient-dense, fiber-rich foods were already a part of my diet, so I didn’t understand why my gut felt so distended and uncomfortable after even the smallest intake. Through trial & error I found a probiotic that helps digest and eliminate painful cramps in my lower intestine. Now I’m FODMAP-aware, I’m realizing that some of my favorite healthy foods are likely the culprits to my long-term discomfort. I’d like to learn what I should be doing to experience relief and sustained gut health, and whether probiotics should be included.

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      July 1, 2020 at 7:52 pm

      Hi Kim,

      Thanks for commenting. It’s good to hear that you’ve been working with a GI doctor and have gone through some tests.

      The first comment we have is that most of the free FODMAP apps are full of misinformation. The best place to find up-to-date low and high FODMAP food lists and portion size information is from the Monash University Low FODMAP Diet App. This app has been created by Monash University – the lead researcher of the low FODMAP diet and the money you pay goes straight back into low FODMAP and IBS research: https://www.monashfodmap.com/ibs-central/i-have-ibs/get-the-app/

      At this stage Monash University doesn’t recommend using probiotics during the first phase of the low FODMAP diet as it can cloud results (you won’t know if it is the probiotics or the diet that is helping your symptoms). This means it might be a good idea to talk to your GI doctor and see if you can postpone starting for the probiotics for a few weeks while you assess if the low FODMAP diet will work for you.

      We hope that helps.

      Reply
  13. Susan R says

    February 25, 2021 at 4:42 pm

    Looking through the first few recipes, I see ingredients such as mushrooms and onions, which I’ve seen on the “avoid” list from several sources. Could you give further explanation? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alana ScottAlana Scott says

      February 25, 2021 at 7:37 pm

      Hi Susan,

      Thanks for commenting. When it comes to mushrooms there are a few low FODMAP options you can try – according to Monash University oyster mushrooms and canned champignon mushrooms are both low FODMAP options that can be enjoyed during the first phase of the diet. For onion replacement, we recommend using the green leaves/tips of spring onion or leek – these green leafy parts are low FODMAP and are a great flavour substitute. You just need to avoid using the white bulbs as this is the high FODMAP part. For an up-to-date list of high and low FODMAP foods we would recommend that you download the Monash University FODMAP Diet App. Additionally, you can find out more about using leeks in low FODMAP meals here: https://alittlebityummy.com/how-to-use-leek-leaves-to-replace-onion-on-low-fodmap-diet/

      Reply

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