The short answer is no. In fact, we do not encourage patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome who have been following a low FODMAP diet to continue the diet in the long term. This is for a number of reasons:
1. Many people can re-introduce some higher FODMAP foods into their diet and still have good symptom control. So it is not necessary to stay on a strict low FODMAP diet.
2. Foods higher in FODMAPs are also high in prebiotics, which means they help to feed the good bacteria in our gut.
3. It is important for food variety to reintroduce any foods well tolerated back into the diet.
So how do I start the re-introduction process you ask? Speak with a dietitian who is experienced in this area to get you started! See links below to find your local dietitian association listings:
Australia
Canada
New Zealand
South Africa
UK
USA
