IBS is a condition characterised by collection of gut symptoms, which can include stomach cramps, bloating, with constipation and/or diarrhoea. These symptoms can vary from person to person, and can come and go. This can make IBS really frustrating to live with, and often poses the question… what is triggering my symptoms? To answer this question, many people explore diet.
Diet and lifestyle play a vital role in the management of IBS, and there is scientific evidence demonstrating diet and lifestyle changes can improve IBS symptoms in some individuals.
If you suffer with IBS, during our initial appointment we will explore what diet and lifestyle changes may be the most appropriate for you to try. For some people, this may include an intervention called the ‘Low FODMAP’ diet.
FODMAP stands for:
- Fermentable
- Oligosaccharides
- Disaccharides
- Monosaccharides
- And
- Polys
These are words that describe a range of carbohydrates, that ferment in the gut, causing gut symptoms in some sensitive individuals. I have been trained by Kings College London (the main centre for low FODMAP diet research in the UK) in delivering the low FODMAP diet approach. If the low FODMAP diet is deemed appropriate for you, together we can go through the 3 stages of the Low FODMAP diet, ensuring your diet remains nutritionally complete.
With no cure currently for IBS, exploring dietary interventions with a dietitian, has the potential to improve symptoms, and give you some control back.
It’s important to note, that for some, dietary changes may not be the answer. If this is the case, we can discuss alternative treatment options you may wish to explore.
