What are FODMAPS?

FODMAPs are certain types of carbohydrates known as short-chain carbohydrates. For certain individuals, the consumption of short-chain carbohydrates can lead to a variety of symptoms, including bloating, distended abdomen, flatulence, cramps, diarrhoea and constipation.

In such individuals, the short-chain carbohydrates or FODMAP foods are poorly digested in the small intestine. The undigested food particles travel onto the large intestine, where the gut bacteria begin the process of fermentation. In this process water is drawn into the large intestine and carbon dioxide, hydrogen and methane are produced. It is the production of these gases, which results in uncomfortable symptoms.

The amount of fructans, galactans, lactose, fructose, sorbitol or mannitol in a food item will vary from one to the next. For example, apples would be classed as a high-FODMAP fruit whereas strawberries would be classed as a low-FODMAP food. With certain items a small portion can be tolerated whereas a large portion will produce a high-FODMAP load.

Individuals who are sensitive or intolerant to FODMAP foods are not necessarily intolerant to all of them. It is a case of understanding those that cause discomfort and symptoms through a process of elimination.

It is important to note that being intolerant or sensitive to certain FODMAP foods may or may not coexist alongside IgG4 intolerance, and this is a highly individual matter. If you do decide to consult our Lifelab Testing nutrition team on your results, FODMAP foods may be an area we discuss with you.