Low-FODMAP Diet

Excerpt

FODMAP is an acronym for fermentable oligo-, di- and monosaccharides, and polyols. These short-chain carbohydrates, arranged in descending order, are associated with worsening or induction of functional gastrointestinal symptoms such as cramping, bloating, and diarrhea. Such symptoms are at least partially attributable to the non-absorbable nature of osmotic carbohydrates, which undergo bacterial fermentation in the small intestine. The implementation of this diet is in three phases, with the eventual goal of eating well-tolerated foods with some FODMAP content. Up to three-quarters of patients may show a response in six weeks or less.