FODMAP Reintroduction in Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Food may be linked to changes in motility, visceral sensation, gut microbiome, intestinal permeability, immune activation and brain-gut axis. This study will focus on fructose, which is one of the main components of FODMAP (Fermentable oligosaccharides, dissacharides, mono-saccharides and polyols) foods. Fructose is a common part of the Western diet and can be consumed as a free monosaccharide, part of sucrose, or in polymers referred to as fructans. FODMAP foods are thought to induce gastrointestinal symptoms including gas, bloating, abdominal pain or discomfort, and loose stools by increasing small bowel water content and increasing gas production by fermentation of foods by gut bacteria. Studies including a recent controlled clinical trial demonstrated that a low FODMAP diet can be an effective nutritional therapy.