FODMAP is an acronym

Fermentable Oligo-saccharides Di-saccharides Mono-saccharides And Polyols, it is a term used by Monash University researchers to describe a group of sugars that are often not well absorbed by the small intestine.

When poorly absorbed these sugars may cause IBS and other gut and bowel discomfort.

* The following quote has been taken directly from the Monash University Department of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences

“Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID) affecting one in seven Australian adults and is also common in the USA, Europe and many Asian countries. This condition is characterised by chronic and relapsing symptoms; lower abdominal pain and discomfort, bloating, wind, distension and altered bowel habit (ranging from diarrhoea to constipation) but with no abnormal pathology. The diagnosis of IBS/FGID should be made by a medical practitioner.

The Monash University Low FODMAP diet

The research team at Monash University have developed a diet to control gastrointestinal symptoms associated with IBS/ FGID. The team has focused on a group of carbohydrates they have named FODMAPs (stands forFermentable Oligo-saccharides,Disaccharides, Mono-saccharides andPolyols).

FODMAPs can be poorly absorbed in the small intestine. Mal-absorbed carbohydrates are fermented by gut bacteria to produce gas. Current research strongly suggests that this group of carbohydrates contributes to IBS/FGID symptoms. FODMAPs are found in a wide range of foods.”

For information about FODMAP’s and the iphone app developed by the team, please visit the following link to the Monash University at:

http://www.med.monash.edu/cecs/gastro/fodmap/