FODMAP Food Intolerances Change Over Time
FODMAP Food Intolerances Change Over Time
by Claire Allen
The concept of FODMAPS (Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Mono- saccharides and polyols) was first developed at Monash University in Melbourne Australia nearly 20 years ago. To this day, the laboratory at Monash University continues to be the gold standard for categorizing the FODMAP content of foods. Over time, Monash University has developed a FODMAP diet app which contains an extensive food database guide that indicates which foods are high and low in FODMAPs. Additionally, the app provides a library of low FODMAP recipes, meals and snacks, as well as FODMAP certified products from major food brands. These resources are tremendously valuable for those adhering to a low FODMAP diet plan.
The research team at Monash University has identified that the FODMAP content of foods may change over time due to factors such as climate change, fertilizers, storage and selective breeding of crops. Per the Monash website, “Plants are capable of changing their chemical structure to help ensure survival when exposed to stressors in their environment. One of these natural defense mechanisms is to increase their production of fructans, which provide plant cells with greater structural integrity, making them hardier and more resistant to damage from environmental changes, pests, and disease.” Additionally cold storage is another factor to increase fructan and fructose production in plants.
For the individual suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), this means that your tolerance to certain foods may change due to the FODMAP content of the food evolving over time. Additionally, your stress level at the time of a FODMAP challenge may also affect tolerance levels. If you have identified food triggers in the past, it is important to re-test these foods every 3-6 months to re-assess tolerance. A diverse diet is critical in facilitating a healthy gut microbiome, so the goal is always to minimize as many food restrictions as possible.
As always, these types of dietary modifications are best facilitated by a dietitian trained in gastrointestinal disease and disorders. If you are interested in diving deeper into your diet, schedule an initial consultation with one of the dietitians on our team at CGH today at 224-407-4400 or at www.compgihealth.com #irritablebowelsynrome #IBS #footintolerance #foodsensitivity #FODMAPs #FODMAPeliminationdiet