Troublemakers caught in the act. FODMAP's are troublesome and contribute to bad gut health.

What are FODMAP's ? FODMAP's stand for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols; a class of sugars that our intestines cannot fully digest or absorb.

Why are they problematic? FODMAP's are types of short-chain carbohydrates (sugars) that are slowly absorbed or poorly digested. Foods that contain FODMAPs are not as effectively broken down and digested in the small intestine compared to foods that do not contain FODMAPs. Due to poor absorption, FODMAPs draw in water to aid in digestion and absorption. A lot of FODMAPs are perfect for the overworked, hungry gut bacteria. Resulting in bacteria quickly digesting and fermenting certain FODMAPs, producing gas that makes your stomach swell (stretching) that results in stomach ache.

High vs Low FODMAPs;

High FODMAPs - Artichoke, Apples, Cow's milk, Legumes/pulses, wheat, barley, rye, Cherries and Custard.

Low FODMAPs - Eggplant, Cantaloupe, Almond milk, Firm tofu, Green beans, Green kiwi fruit, Feta cheese and Rice cakes (plain).