Simpler Approach to a Low-FODMAP Diet for Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

In two small trials, certain FODMAPs were more likely to cause symptoms, and targeted elimination was effective.

Many patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can alleviate symptoms by consuming a diet low in fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAPs). However, following a low-FODMAP diet and the complex process of reintroducing foods to identify symptom triggers can be difficult, especially for patients without access to experienced nutritionists. In two U.S. studies, researchers evaluated contributions of individual FODMAPs to patients' symptoms.

In one study, 21 patients with IBS (median age, 30) whose symptoms improved during a 2-week, open-label, low-FODMAP period underwent blinded sequential reintroduction of five FODMAP components. The only statistically significant change in symptoms between low-FODMAP and reintroduc…

Reviewing Author

Sarah E. Post, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Sarah E. Post, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Simpler Approach to a Low-FODMAP Diet for Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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Reviewing Author