My reader of the week award goes to guest Emily, who offered some excellent advice about working with a nutritionist if you are going to try the low FODMAPs diet for IBS. She posted this in my "Readers Share" article on tips for following the FODMAPs diet:
"A lot of people have mentioned half these foods do not have an effect on them or they have not noticed one, this is why you NEED to see a dietician to determine which specific parts of the FODMAP diet you need to follow, for example I do not need to exclude dairy because I have already discovered this is not a trigger for me. This is also why if you are just researching on the net you can find conflicting guidelines. The FODMAP diet also explains why you may not notice symptoms every time you eat certain foods, it is certain FODMAPS in excess that will cause symptoms. Everyone can process a particular amount of each FODMAP and the diet is designed so you can determine your individual capacity. It's not a forever diet, it is supposed to be followed for 1-2 months and then you will work with your dietician to reintroduce certain FODMAPs. The only way this diet is to be a success is if you work through it with a qualified dietician!! Yes its difficult, but the results are worth it!
Emily says it beautifully. Although I am thrilled that there is finally some decent research behind the subject of IBS and food, I recognize that any diet can be misunderstood, leading to nutritional deficiencies. It really appears essential to try the diet only under the supervision of a licensed dietician. Jeffrey Roberts, of the Irritable Bowel Syndrome Self Help and Support Group, has started a worldwide registry of dieticians trained in the administration of the diet:
However, even if there is no specially trained nutritionist in your area, working with any licensed professional would be safer than trying it on your own.
More from Dr. Bolen, your IBS Guide:
- The FODMAPs Diet Theory for IBS
- Effectiveness of low FODMAPs Diet for IBS
- Foods on the FODMAPs Diet
- Reader Experiences with the Low FODMAPs Diet
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I know that working with a dietitian is the best way. But for those of us who are struggling without any financial backup, who have no health care and no way to pay for it at all, it is frustrating and disappointing.
Someone had to say this. Not all of us with IBS have the ability to talk to a dietitian. Sometimes, all one has is the ability to read, think and reason out what a doctor charges you to tell you, which is why I value this site and the information given.
On the printed low-FODMAP chart, polenta is recommended, but sweet corn is forbidden. Polenta is made from corn. So I don’t understand… And what about popcorn?
Nerva Vel, you make a very good point – and I am glad that my site is helping!
Deb3, please remember that this is a diet of recommendations and one of eating some foods in lower amounts. I would not get so hung up on individual foods. A food diary is helpful to identify foods that might be specific triggers for you. Hope that helps!