what are FODMAPS and how do they work with Intoleran

At Intoleran, we’re used to manufacturing enzyme-based supplements to help manage for example lactose intolerance. With our supplements everyone can enjoy food again.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal disorder, which involves a disturbed intestinal function and can cause unpleasant abdominal symptoms. One of the most effective ways to manage your IBS is the FODMAP diet.

what does FODMAP stand for?

The acronym FODMAP stands for:

• Fermentable: The process in which undigested carbohydrates are fermented by gut bacteria.
• Oligosaccharides: Fructans and Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), which come from wheat, legumes, and similar foods.
• Disaccharides: Lactose from milk, cheese, and other dairy products.
• Monosaccharides: Fructose from honey, high fructose corn syrups, and certain fruits like apples.
• Polyols: Mannitol and Sorbitol, both of which are found in artificial sweeteners as well as some fruits and veggies.

While the FODMAP acronym may be a mouthful, the elements that make up its constituent letters are even more complicated. That leads to the question of what a FODMAP is in the first place.

what is a FODMAP? (in Layman’s Terms)

FODMAPs are a group of fermentable, poorly digestible short-chain carbohydrates (i.e. sugars.) These aren’t properly digested by the body — a fact that is true for those with IBS as well as those with normal digestive capabilities.

Instead of being digested early on, FODMAP foods collect water as they pass through the small intestine. Once in the large intestine, they begin to ferment, thanks to the gut bacteria present. This creates gas, which can trigger discomfort — especially for those with sensitive bowels, i.e. IBS.

This issue of particularly painful IBS-related discomfort has led to the development of the FODMAP diet. The set of eating guidelines is designed to help those who are managing medically diagnosed IBS.

how do Intoleran and the FODMAP diet work together?

Intoleran is proud to be certified by Monash University, which originally created the FODMAP diet. While our products are supplemental (i.e. they aren’t official FODMAP foods) they work well in concert with a regulated FODMAP diet.

When eating low FODMAP after following the FODMAP diet, Intoleran supplements can help in special situations.

For instance, you may keep your house well stocked with diet-approved foods. However, if you venture out to attend a party, visit a friend, meet someone for coffee, or any other external culinary activity, you may not know what exactly is in the food that you’re offered.

Intoleran provides supplements which can be useful in this kind of situations. Our supplements contain enzymes which help the body properly break down ingredients that the digestive system might otherwise struggle to digest.

By combining a FODMAP diet with Intoleran products, you can manage daily food decisions without worrying about the consequences once your food reaches your gut. The one-two punch that a tailored diet and Intoleran supplements provide enables to reclaim a sense of peace, both in their gut and in their everyday life decisions.