Reading time: Less than 2 minutes
Diet is crucial for preventing and managing gastrointestinal disorders like IBS. A balanced diet supports gut health and helps prevent various digestive issues. Specific dietary modifications manage conditions such as IBS, IBD and coeliac disease. For example, a low FODMAP diet can alleviate IBS symptoms, while a gluten-free diet is essential for managing coeliac disease. Nutritional support is also important for those with malabsorption issues or severe conditions to help prevent deficiencies. Dietary strategies should be tailored to individual needs for optimal health outcomes.
The low FODMAP diet
The low FODMAP diet is a dietary approach designed to help manage symptoms of IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders. The diet reduces symptoms in up to 75% of IBS sufferers. FODMAPs are fermentable carbohydrates found in certain foods that can cause bloating, gas, and discomfort. The diet involves three phases: elimination, reintroduction and personalisation. Initially high-FODMAP foods are removed from the diet for 4-6 weeks. Then, foods are gradually reintroduced to identify individual triggers. Finally, a personalised diet is developed, including only well-tolerated FODMAPs. This approach aims to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life by identifying and managing specific food trigger.
Are you over restricting?
It is estimated that about 20-25% of people with IBS tend to over-restrict their diets. This often occurs as people attempt to manage their symptoms by eliminating a wide range of foods they suspect might be triggers. While dietary modifications can be beneficial, excessive restriction can lead to nutritional deficiencies and negatively impact overall health. Working with a gastrointestinal specialised dietitian can help ensure that dietary changes are balanced and individuals maintain a nutritionally adequate diet while effectively managing their IBS symptoms.
