FODMAP stands for ‘Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Mono-saccharides and Polyols’. FODMAPs are a group of dietary sugars found in everyday foods and are indigestible or poorly absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract.
FODMAPs have the ability to increase movement of water through the small intestine. Slowly absorbed and indigestible FODMAPs are fermented by gut bacteria to produce gas, a process which can cause the bowel to expand and in people with IBS, contribute to symptoms of bloating, abdominal pain and altered bowel motility.
As advised by Monash University, a low-FODMAP diet should only be commenced under the supervision of a healthcare professional. To learn more about FODMAPs and the low-FODMAP diet, visit the Monash website.
