Which type of carbohydrates should individuals with IBS typically avoid?

Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) are often advised to avoid FODMAPs, which stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. These are a group of short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. FODMAPs can cause gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and other digestive symptoms due to the fermentation process that occurs in the gut.

The low FODMAP diet has been shown to alleviate symptoms in many individuals with IBS by reducing the intake of these problematic carbohydrates. Foods high in FODMAPs include certain fruits (like apples and cherries), vegetables (like onions and garlic), legumes, dairy products, and sweeteners such as honey and high-fructose corn syrup.

In contrast, starches, fiber, and simple sugars may not have the same significant impact on IBS symptoms and are not typically restricted in the same way as FODMAPs. While individual responses to carbohydrates can vary, focusing on avoiding FODMAPs is a key strategy for managing IBS symptoms effectively.