Q: I have celiac disease and follow the gluten-free diet. I also have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Where can I find online support for following the Low FODMAP diet?
Answer
First, a very brief review of the Low FODMAP Diet: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be a co-existing disorder found in patients with celiac disease and other diseases where the motility (movement) of the gut is affected. Research has found that a low FODMAP diet is the most effective way known today to manage the symptoms of IBS, such as gas, bloating, cramping and bowel changes.
The acronym FODMAPs stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols, a sophisticated name for specific sugars found in food that can cause a wide range of symptoms in sensitive individuals. The Low FODMAP diet TEMPORARILY avoids these FODMAP-rich foods for a 2-6 week period and then reintroduces them, one by one, to test tolerance and find symptom relief. This process is complex and very individualized with each person. It should only be done under the care and management of a registered dietitian specializing in FODMAPs who will make sure the patient has a healthy, balanced diet, particularly in this case since the patient is combining two diets.
When counseling patients in nutrition clinic on the temporary low FODMAP diet and rechallenge, I recommend using evidence-based resources that are designed and operated by registered dietitians, physicians, and/or researchers. A few examples of these types of resources are listed below, but please remember that these suggestions are provided for support and guidance only and should be used IN ADDITION to a consultation with a registered dietitian.
Kate Scarlata, RD
“Kate Scarlata is a Boston-based registered and licensed dietitian as well as a New York Times Best Selling author with 25+ years of experience. Kate specializes in the low FODMAP diet and digestive health conditions including: IBS, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).”
Monash University
“The Low FODMAP Diet was first developed by researchers at Monash University, in Melbourne, Australia. For over 10 years, this team has been innovating to improve the lives of people with IBS.”
Patsy Catsos, MS, RDN, LD
https://www.ibsfree.net/
“Patsy Catsos, MS, RDN, LD is a medical nutrition therapist, FODMAP expert, and author. The focus of her Portland, Maine practice is digestive health, including irritable bowel syndrome, gluten-related disorders, and inflammatory bowel disease.”
Disclaimer: This information is meant for educational purposes and is not intended to substitute for personalized medical advice or replace any medical advice provided directly to you by your health care provider. The Celiac Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) and Melinda Dennis do not endorse any of the companies or products listed on this site and no liability is assumed by BIDMC or Melinda Dennis by providing this information.
Disclosure: Melinda Dennis currently serves on the Monash University Nutrition Advisory Board.
Reviewed October 14, 2022.
Note: This information is provided by NCA and Melinda Dennis, NCA's Senior Consulting Dietitian. This information is meant for educational purposes and is not intended to substitute for personalized medical advice or replace any medical advice provided directly to you by your health care provider. This information can be printed and used in consultation with your physician or dietitian. No liability is assumed by NCA, Ms. Dennis or her nutrition consulting service Delete the Wheat, LLC. by providing this information.
