Did you know that roughly 1 in 7 people are affected by IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)?

There are many possible causes, but one treatment that's getting a lot of buzz is the FODMAP diet. In fact, around 3 out of 4 people with IBS who changed their eating with the FODMAP diet found that it improved their IBS symptoms.

What are FODMAPs?
FODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides Disaccharides Monosaccharides and Polyols: a group of sugars that our intestines can't completely digest and absorb, which can trigger unpleasant digestive symptoms and bloating.

Unlike allergies, FODMAP sensitivity is not an immune system reaction. It's a digestive issue.

What foods are high in FODMAPs?
A lot of foods have naturally occurring FODMAPs. Some of the most common are vegetables like artichoke, cauliflower and onions, fruits like pears, apples, watermelon and mangoes, dairy, legumes and pulses, wheat, rye and barely, honey and even pistachios. Artificial sweeteners also often have FODMAPs.

To help you identify high and low FODMAP foods, including packaged foods, you can use the FODMAP Friendly app or visit the website.

What is a FODMAP diet?
The FODMAP diet is basically removing all the high-FODMAP foods from your diet, and then gradually reintroducing them one at a time to try to figure out which ones are problematic for your digestive system. It's a bit of diet detective work by process of elimination.

Because so many foods contain FODMAPs, by figuring out which ones are really the cause of the problem, you don't necessarily have to cut out all high-FODMAP foods forever.

This way, you can have as normal a diet as possible, only cutting out what you need to, while still managing the symptoms of IBS and staying healthy. It's all about finding your balance, and a diet that makes you and your body happy.

Remember: You should always speak to a medical professional, such as your doctor or an accredited dietitian, before starting any new changes in your diet.

A FODMAP diet doesn’t mean you have to cut out delicious snacks and treats, either. We have a fully certified FODMAP Friendly range, including our new Choc Golden Snaps, so you can stock up on treats that are better for you and your gut health.