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  • Are Tomatoes Low FODMAP?Low FODMAP Diet

    Are Tomatoes Low FODMAP?Low FODMAP Diet

    Wondering if tomatoes are low FODMAP? Learn safe serving sizes, tips, and check other foods with the Low FODMAP Calculator at LowFodmapHelper.com.

    When following a Low FODMAP diet, one of the most common questions people ask is: “Are tomatoes low FODMAP?” The good news is that yes, tomatoes are generally considered low FODMAP in appropriate serving sizes. However, like many foods, portion size and variety matter. Let’s break it down.

    Tomatoes and the Low FODMAP Diet

    Fresh tomatoes are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and gut-friendly nutrients. According to research:

    • Common tomatoes (red, raw) are low FODMAP in servings of 1 medium tomato (about 100g).
    • Cherry tomatoes are also low FODMAP at 75g (about 5 tomatoes).
    • Roma and grape tomatoes are well tolerated in small servings.
    • Canned tomatoes and tomato paste can become high FODMAP more quickly due to concentration, so portion control is key.

    The takeaway: Tomatoes can safely be enjoyed on a Low FODMAP diet, as long as you stick to recommended serving sizes.

    High FODMAP Risks with Tomatoes

    Tomatoes themselves don’t contain high levels of FODMAP sugars, but problems can arise when:

    • They are consumed in large amounts.
    • They are used in sauces with onion, garlic, or other high FODMAP ingredients.
    • Tomato paste or puree is eaten in large, concentrated servings.

    Always check ingredients when buying packaged tomato products.

    How to Enjoy Tomatoes on a Low FODMAP Diet

    Here are a few safe ways to add tomatoes into your meals:

    • Slice fresh tomatoes into salads.
    • Roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil and herbs.
    • Add Roma tomatoes to sandwiches or wraps.
    • Use small amounts of tomato paste to flavor sauces.

    Tomatoes are not only safe but also versatile and delicious when enjoyed mindfully.

    Want to Check Other Foods?

    If you’re wondering about other foods — like peppers, cucumbers, or eggplants — the easiest way is to use the Low FODMAP Food Calculator. It helps you instantly check if a food is safe, and even suggests low FODMAP alternatives.

    Take Your Gut Health Further

    • Explore more delicious recipes with the Low FODMAP Diet Cookbook, designed to make your journey simple and tasty.
    • For personalized guidance, visit LowFodmapHelper.com and access free resources, recipes, and food guides.

    Final Thoughts

    So, are tomatoes low FODMAP? Yes — when eaten in the right amounts, tomatoes are a safe and nutritious addition to your Low FODMAP diet. Stick to fresh or small portions of processed tomatoes, and avoid combining them with high FODMAP ingredients.

    To make your diet easier, head over to LowFodmapHelper.com, check the Food Calculator, and grab your copy of the Low FODMAP Cookbook today.

  • Is Low FODMAP High Protein?

    Is Low FODMAP High Protein?

    When starting a Low FODMAP diet for gut health, many people wonder: Is low FODMAP also high protein? The short answer is yes, it can be — if you choose the right foods. The Low FODMAP diet isn’t automatically high protein, but it allows plenty of safe, protein-rich options that won’t trigger IBS symptoms.

    What is the Low FODMAP Diet?

    The Low FODMAP diet is designed to reduce fermentable carbohydrates that cause bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort. By cutting down on these irritants, people with IBS and gut sensitivities often find significant relief. You can learn more and explore helpful tools at lowfodmaphelper.com, which offers free apps to make the diet easier.

    Protein Sources on a Low FODMAP Diet

    Protein is essential for muscle repair, energy, and overall health. Luckily, most high-protein foods are naturally low in FODMAPs, making it simple to combine gut-friendly eating with protein intake. Here are some excellent choices:

    • Meat & Poultry – Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, and pork (avoid marinades with garlic or onion).
    • Fish & Seafood – Salmon, tuna, shrimp, cod, sardines, and shellfish.
    • Eggs – A versatile, low FODMAP protein powerhouse.
    • Firm Tofu & Tempeh – Great plant-based protein options (avoid silken tofu, which is high FODMAP).
    • Lactose-Free Dairy – Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and hard cheeses.
    • Nuts & Seeds (in moderation) – Almonds (10 nuts), peanuts, pumpkin seeds, chia, and walnuts.

    Balancing Low FODMAP with High Protein

    To make your Low FODMAP diet high protein, you simply need to plan meals around these safe foods. For example:

    • Grilled salmon with quinoa and steamed zucchini.
    • Omelet with spinach and lactose-free cheese.
    • Chicken stir-fry with rice and bok choy.

    If you need structured meal ideas, the Low FODMAP Diet Cookbook is a fantastic resource with recipes that balance protein and gut-friendly ingredients.

    Final Thoughts

    The Low FODMAP diet doesn’t restrict protein — in fact, it’s easy to eat high-protein while keeping your digestion calm. By focusing on gut-friendly proteins like eggs, fish, chicken, tofu, and lactose-free dairy, you can enjoy both symptom relief and nutritional balance.

    👉 Want to simplify your Low FODMAP journey? Explore free tools, guides, and the Low FODMAP Diet Cookbook at lowfodmaphelper.com.

  • Is Low FODMAP Good for SIBO?

    Is Low FODMAP Good for SIBO?

    Discover how the Low FODMAP diet helps manage SIBO symptoms. Learn tips, safe foods, and use the Low FODMAP Food Calculator on lowfodmaphelper.com.

    If you’ve been diagnosed with Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), you might be wondering whether the Low FODMAP diet can help. The connection between diet and gut health is undeniable, and many people with digestive issues turn to dietary changes for relief. But is the Low FODMAP diet for SIBO the right choice? Let’s dive into the details.


    What is SIBO?

    SIBO occurs when excessive bacteria grow in the small intestine, disrupting digestion and nutrient absorption. Common symptoms include:

    • Bloating
    • Gas
    • Abdominal pain
    • Diarrhea or constipation

    Since these symptoms overlap with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), finding the right dietary approach becomes essential.


    How the Low FODMAP Diet Helps

    The Low FODMAP diet reduces fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs) that can feed bacteria in the gut. For SIBO patients, this can mean:

    • Less bloating and discomfort
    • More stable digestion
    • Reduced bacterial “fuel” for overgrowth

    While the Low FODMAP diet does not cure SIBO, it often helps manage symptoms and improves quality of life during treatment.


    Using the Low FODMAP Diet for SIBO Management

    If your doctor recommends trying the Low FODMAP approach for SIBO, here are some tips:

    • Start with guidance: Work with a healthcare professional to ensure nutritional balance.
    • Track your foods: Knowing which foods trigger your symptoms is key.
    • Use tools: The Low FODMAP Food Calculator makes it easier to check if a food is suitable for your diet and find safer alternatives.

    By following these steps, many people with SIBO experience fewer flare-ups and more consistent digestion.


    Where to Get Support

    Learning the Low FODMAP diet can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re also managing SIBO. That’s why resources like lowfodmaphelper.com offering tools, guides, and the Low FODMAP Food Calculator to help you navigate your food choices with confidence.


    Final Thoughts

    So, is the Low FODMAP diet good for SIBO? The answer is yes, for many people it helps manage symptoms, though it should be part of a broader treatment plan directed by your doctor. Combining professional guidance with reliable tools like the Low FODMAP Food Calculator can make your SIBO journey much smoother.

  • Are Low FODMAP Foods Easier to Digest? A Guide to Gut-Friendly Eating

    Are Low FODMAP Foods Easier to Digest? A Guide to Gut-Friendly Eating

    Are low FODMAP foods easier to digest? Discover how the low FODMAP diet helps with IBS, bloating, and gut health—plus explore helpful tools and recipes from LowFODMAPHelper.com.

    Are Low FODMAP Foods Easier to Digest?

    Digestive issues like bloating, gas, and discomfort affect millions of people worldwide. If you’ve ever wondered, “Are low FODMAP foods easier to digest?” the answer is usually yes—especially for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or a sensitive gut.

    To make things easier, platforms like LowFODMAPHelper.com offer free tools and apps that help you check whether a food is low or high FODMAP, and even generate gut-friendly recipes.


    What Are FODMAPs and Why They Matter

    FODMAPs are fermentable carbohydrates that can be difficult to absorb. When they reach the large intestine, they ferment, producing gas and drawing in water, which often leads to:

    • Bloating
    • Abdominal pain
    • Constipation or diarrhea

    A low FODMAP diet minimizes these carbs, making digestion smoother and less stressful for the gut.


    Why Low FODMAP Foods Are Easier to Digest

    For people with IBS or gut sensitivities, low FODMAP foods:

    • Produce less fermentation → reducing bloating and gas
    • Draw in less water → lowering the risk of diarrhea
    • Move more easily through the gut → supporting comfort after meals

    This makes them a go-to strategy for those looking for bloating relief and digestive balance.


    Easy-to-Digest Low FODMAP Foods

    • Proteins: Chicken, fish, eggs, tofu
    • Grains & Carbs: Rice, oats, quinoa, gluten-free bread
    • Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, spinach, cucumber
    • Fruits: Strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, oranges
    • Dairy Alternatives: Almond milk, lactose-free yogurt, coconut milk

    For practical guidance and recipes, the Low FODMAP Diet Cookbook by LowFODMAPHelper.com is a great resource to help you build a safe and delicious meal plan.


    Should Everyone Eat Low FODMAP Foods?

    Not necessarily. If your digestion is healthy, you might tolerate high FODMAP foods well. In fact, many of them contain prebiotics, which feed your good gut bacteria and support long-term gut health.

    But if you’re dealing with IBS or ongoing digestive discomfort, a low FODMAP approach may provide noticeable relief.


    Final Thoughts

    So, are low FODMAP foods easier to digest?
    ✅ Yes, for those with IBS or gut sensitivities, they can dramatically improve comfort.
    ✅ For others, they may not be essential but can still be helpful during digestive flare-ups.

    If you’re ready to explore this approach, check out the free tools and the complete Low FODMAP Diet Cookbook at LowFODMAPHelper.com to start building a gut-friendly lifestyle.

  • What Causes Bloating? Understanding the Root of That Uncomfortable Fullness

    Bloating is one of the most common digestive complaints, yet it’s often misunderstood. That uncomfortable swelling in your belly after meals or at the end of the day can be caused by various factors—from the foods you eat to how you eat them.

    Let’s dive into the main causes of bloating and what you can do to relieve it.

    1. Overeating or Eating Too Fast

    Eating large portions or wolfing down meals can overload your digestive system. Swallowing air while eating too quickly also contributes to excess gas in the digestive tract, leading to bloating.

    Fix: Chew thoroughly and eat smaller, balanced portions. Mindful eating helps.


    2. Gas-Producing Foods

    Certain healthy foods are notorious for causing gas. Beans, lentils, onions, cabbage, and carbonated drinks can all increase fermentation in the gut.

    Fix: Monitor your intake of gas-producing foods. If you suspect your bloating is related to specific carbs like these, a Low FODMAP diet can be life-changing.
    👉 Explore easy-to-follow FODMAP food swaps and symptom relief tools at LowFODMAPHelper.com.


    3. Food Intolerances

    Lactose, gluten, and fructose intolerances can cause bloating, cramping, and diarrhea. Your body struggles to digest these compounds, leading to fermentation and gas buildup.

    Fix: Keep a food diary to track symptoms. An elimination diet or working with a nutritionist can help pinpoint the culprit.


    4. Constipation

    When stool builds up in your colon, it blocks the normal passage of gas and fluids, causing your belly to feel hard and distended.

    Fix: Increase fiber gradually, stay hydrated, and keep your body moving.


    5. Hormonal Changes

    Many women experience bloating before or during their menstrual cycle due to hormone fluctuations, especially progesterone and estrogen.

    Fix: Magnesium-rich foods, herbal teas like peppermint or fennel, and light exercise can help reduce symptoms.


    6. Gut Dysbiosis or IBS

    An imbalance of gut bacteria or a condition like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause persistent bloating. This type of bloating often comes with cramping, changes in bowel habits, and fatigue.


    7. Swallowing Air (Aerophagia)

    Chewing gum, drinking through a straw, or talking while eating can increase the amount of air you swallow, contributing to bloating.

    Fix: Avoid gum, eat slowly, and reduce carbonated beverages.


    Final Thoughts

    Bloating isn’t just uncomfortable—it can affect your quality of life. By understanding the root causes, you can make simple changes that bring lasting relief.

    If you’re ready to feel lighter and take control of your digestive health, start with expert-backed tools and recipes at LowFODMAPHelper.com.

  • Rebuilding Your Gut: A Practical Guide to Healing Through Food, Recipes & Supplements

    Rebuilding Your Gut: A Practical Guide to Healing Through Food, Recipes & Supplements

    If you’ve learned about intestinal permeability and the factors that cause a “leaky gut,” the next step is rebuilding your gut barrier and microbiome with the right foods, recipes, and supplements. Healing a leaky gut doesn’t happen overnight — but with consistent, intentional choices, your digestive system can begin to repair itself and thrive.

    Let’s walk through a practical plan you can start using today.


    1. Start with a Gut-Healing Foundation: Whole Plant Foods

    A plant-rich diet provides fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that feed good gut bacteria and reduce gut permeability. Aim to base most of your meals around:

    • Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, kale, zucchini, carrots, squash
    • Fruits: Blueberries, bananas (not overripe), apples (with skin), kiwis
    • Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oats, buckwheat
    • Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans (start slowly if sensitive)
    • Nuts and seeds: Chia seeds, flaxseeds, almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds

    👉 These foods are rich in prebiotic fibers that help grow beneficial bacteria and reduce levels of zonulin — a marker of gut leakiness.


    2. Heal and Seal with Targeted Recipes

    Here are three gut-healing recipes using ingredients that nourish the intestinal lining and support microbiome diversity:


    🌿 Breakfast: Gut-Friendly Chia Pudding

    Ingredients:

    • 3 tbsp chia seeds
    • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
    • ½ tsp turmeric (anti-inflammatory)
    • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
    • ¼ tsp cinnamon
    • Fresh blueberries and banana slices

    Instructions:

    • Mix chia seeds with milk, turmeric, and cinnamon in a jar.
    • Stir well and let sit for 15 minutes. Stir again, then refrigerate overnight.
    • In the morning, top with banana and berries.

    🥣 Lunch: Warm Lentil and Quinoa Bowl

    Ingredients:

    • ½ cup cooked green lentils
    • ½ cup cooked quinoa
    • 1 cup steamed broccoli
    • ½ avocado, sliced
    • Olive oil + lemon juice dressing
    • Sprinkle of pumpkin seeds

    Instructions:

    • Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
    • Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Toss and enjoy.

    🥦 Dinner: Roasted Veggie Tray with Tahini Dressing

    Ingredients:

    • Carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, and sweet potato (roasted)
    • Olive oil, cumin, and sea salt
    • Tahini (2 tbsp), lemon juice (1 tbsp), water to thin

    Instructions:

    • Roast chopped veggies at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes.
    • Mix tahini with lemon juice and water to make dressing.
    • Serve veggies with tahini drizzle.

    3. Supplement Support for a Leaky Gut

    While food is the foundation, certain supplements can accelerate healing and support gut integrity:

    🔹 Zinc

    • Dose: 5–15 mg daily (food-based preferred)
    • Food source: Lentils, pumpkin seeds, cashews
    • Benefit: Shown in studies to protect the gut barrier from damage and reduce permeability.

    🔹 L-Glutamine

    • Dose: 5 grams daily (powder or capsule)
    • Benefit: This amino acid is fuel for gut lining cells and may help repair the intestinal wall.

    🔹 Curcumin (Turmeric Extract)

    • Dose: 500–1000 mg daily with black pepper extract (for absorption)
    • Benefit: Anti-inflammatory, helps counteract NSAID and exercise-related gut damage.

    🔹 Probiotics

    • Strains to look for: Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Saccharomyces boulardii
    • Food-based sources: Sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, unsweetened yogurt

    🔹 Omega-3s

    • Source: Ground flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, or supplements (algae-based or fish oil)
    • Benefit: Reduces intestinal inflammation and supports gut barrier strength.

    4. Foods to Avoid While Healing

    To truly give your gut a chance to heal, avoid the following:

    🚫 Ultra-processed foods (especially those high in sugar and refined oils)
    🚫 NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and aspirin — unless medically necessary)
    🚫 Alcohol
    🚫 Excessive saturated fat (processed meat, fried foods)
    🚫 Emulsifiers and artificial sweeteners (can disrupt microbiome)


    5. Build a Healing Routine

    Here’s a simple daily rhythm to support gut healing:

    • Morning: Warm water with lemon + chia pudding
    • Lunch: Lentil or veggie bowl with fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi)
    • Dinner: Roasted vegetables + healthy fat (avocado, tahini)
    • Snacks: Fruit, nuts, or homemade hummus with cucumber
    • Supplements: As needed based on the guidance above

    Final Thoughts

    Rebuilding your gut isn’t about restriction — it’s about nourishment. By prioritizing whole plant foods, targeted nutrients, and natural anti-inflammatory ingredients, you give your intestinal lining the chance to repair and protect itself from future damage.

    Consistency is key. Within weeks, many people begin to notice less bloating, better digestion, clearer skin, and improved energy — all signs of a gut that’s healing from the inside out.

  • Avoid These Common Triggers to Prevent Leaky Gut Syndrome

    Avoid These Common Triggers to Prevent Leaky Gut Syndrome

    Intestinal permeability—more commonly referred to as leaky gut—is emerging as a significant factor in disease prevention and overall health. While it may sound like a niche health concern, leaky gut can be influenced by many factors that affect people every single day. In this post, we’ll uncover the everyday triggers that may be silently damaging your gut lining, and in our next post, we’ll dive into the foods that can help heal it.


    What Is Leaky Gut and Why Does It Matter?

    Your gut isn’t just a digestive tube—it’s a sophisticated barrier system. The intestinal lining, with its millions of folds, covers over 4,000 square feet, making it larger than a tennis court. It’s so vital to our health that it consumes nearly 40% of the body’s total energy to function properly.

    When this barrier is compromised, tiny particles that are meant to stay in the gut can slip into the bloodstream. This can lead to inflammation and has been linked to serious conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, food allergies, and even autoimmune disorders.


    How Do We Know When the Gut Becomes “Leaky”?

    Scientists have measured intestinal permeability by using harmless dyes like blue food coloring. In a healthy person, it stays in the gut. But in individuals with severe gut barrier breakdown—like those in intensive care—it can be detected in the bloodstream. The scary part? You don’t have to be critically ill for your gut to start leaking.


    Common Everyday Triggers of Leaky Gut

    Here are some surprising things that can weaken your gut barrier:

    1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers (NSAIDs)

    Just two regular or extra-strength aspirin pills can increase gut leakiness. Endoscopies have shown that up to 90% of people taking aspirin or Bufferin experience visible stomach and intestinal erosions—within five minutes of ingestion.

    Even buffered aspirin doesn’t offer protection. And combining aspirin with vitamin C? It may make the damage even worse.


    2. NSAIDs and Food Allergies

    These medications may explain why up to 25% of food-induced anaphylactic reactions involve NSAIDs. By weakening the gut lining, they allow partially digested food particles to enter the bloodstream, triggering severe allergic responses.


    3. Strenuous Exercise

    High-intensity workouts (about 70% of your max effort for an hour) can pull blood away from your digestive system, causing temporary gut damage. If combined with NSAID use—common among athletes—the effects can be worsened.


    4. Alcohol Consumption

    Alcohol is another major contributor to gut leakiness. The good news? When alcohol is eliminated, the gut can often begin to heal itself.


    5. High Saturated Fat Intake

    Diets high in saturated fats—like those found in meat, dairy, and processed junk foods—promote the growth of bad gut bacteria that produce hydrogen sulfide (a toxic gas). This damages the mucus layer that protects the intestinal wall.

    Though much of this research started with animals and lab studies, a 6-month human trial confirmed it: a higher-fat diet caused negative shifts in gut microbiota and increased inflammation.

    Even when the fats weren’t from meat or dairy—but from refined oils—simply replacing them with refined carbs like white rice or flour reduced negative gut changes.


    So, What Should You Do?

    If your diet has shifted toward a Westernized pattern—more processed foods, more fats—there’s good reason to scale back. Countries transitioning to such diets are advised to avoid increasing fat intake, and countries already there should cut down.

    Avoiding common triggers like NSAIDs, alcohol, and saturated fats can go a long way in preserving the integrity of your gut.

  • How to Track Your Gut Healing Progress: Simple, Practical Tools That Work

    How to Track Your Gut Healing Progress: Simple, Practical Tools That Work

    Rebuilding your gut takes time — but how do you know it’s actually working?

    Tracking your progress with the right signs and tools can help you stay motivated and make informed adjustments to your routine. While there’s no single test that shows your gut is “healed,” your body gives many clues. Here’s how to monitor your journey using simple, practical methods at home (plus a few optional lab tests if you want to dig deeper).


    🔍 1. Tune In to Digestive Symptoms

    Start by keeping a gut health journal to log your daily habits and symptoms. This can help you spot patterns, improvements, and setbacks.

    What to track:

    • Bloating (frequency and severity)
    • Gas or belching
    • Bowel movements (see next section)
    • Cramping or abdominal discomfort
    • Heartburn or acid reflux
    • Nausea or food sensitivity

    Improvement Signs: Less bloating, smoother digestion, no discomfort after meals.


    🚽 2. Monitor Your Bowel Movements

    Your stool is a direct reflection of gut function. Use the Bristol Stool Chart to identify your stool type:

    TypeDescriptionWhat It Means
    1–2Hard lumps, difficult to passPossible constipation or low fiber
    3–4Smooth, sausage-like✅ Ideal and healthy
    5–7Soft or wateryMay indicate inflammation or imbalance

    Frequency: 1–3 times per day is healthy
    Color: Medium brown is ideal
    Ease: No straining, pain, or urgency


    🍽️ 3. Observe Food Tolerance

    Many people with a leaky gut also have food sensitivities. As your gut heals, your ability to tolerate previously irritating foods (like legumes, certain fruits, or whole grains) may improve.

    Track changes in:

    • How you feel after eating certain foods
    • Cravings or aversions
    • Reactions like skin flare-ups, headaches, or fatigue

    Improvement Sign: Broader food tolerance, less bloating after meals.


    😌 4. Notice Non-Digestive Improvements

    Because your gut influences your whole body, healing often shows up in non-digestive areas:

    • Energy levels: Improved stamina, less brain fog
    • Skin: Fewer breakouts, reduced redness
    • Mood: Better stress resilience, fewer mood swings
    • Sleep: Deeper, more restful sleep
    • Weight: Natural weight balancing without extreme dieting

    Keep a weekly note of how you’re feeling in these areas to spot slow, positive changes.


    🧪 5. Optional Lab Tests (If Needed)

    If you want more objective data, consider working with a functional or integrative doctor to order:

    • Zonulin levels: Marker of gut permeability
    • Calprotectin: Measures gut inflammation
    • Microbiome testing: Identifies bacteria diversity and balance (e.g., via stool testing)
    • IgG food sensitivity test: May help identify problematic foods while healing

    💡 Lab tests are optional and not necessary for everyone. Your daily symptoms are often the best indicator of progress.


    🗓️ 6. Use a 4-Week Gut Healing Tracker

    Create a simple weekly tracker like this:

    WeekBloatingBowel RegularityEnergyMoodNotes
    1HighIrregularLowFlatStarted turmeric
    2MediumImprovingBetterCalmerAdded lentils
    3LowRegularHighStableLess sugar cravings
    4RareIdealHighPositiveReintroduced beans with no issues

    Final Tip: Be Patient and Stay Consistent

    Healing your gut is not linear. Some days will feel better than others. Small setbacks don’t mean failure — they’re just part of the process. Track what matters most to you, celebrate progress, and continue nourishing your body with what it needs to thrive.

  • Low FODMAP Diet! What Foods Should I Avoid?

    Low FODMAP Diet! What Foods Should I Avoid?

    (Especially if you have gut issues or sensitive digestion)

    If you’ve ever found yourself bloated after a healthy meal or rushing to the bathroom after your morning smoothie, you’ve probably asked yourself this: “What foods should I avoid?”

    It’s a question that’s not always easy to answer, especially since what works for one person might upset another’s stomach. But if you’re dealing with digestive discomfort, IBS, or simply feel better on a sensitive gut diet, there’s one area worth exploring: FODMAPs.

    Before you panic—no, this isn’t some exotic food group you’ve never heard of. In fact, FODMAPs are found in many everyday ingredients you probably eat regularly!


    🤔 First Things First: What Are FODMAPs?

    FODMAP stands for:

    • Fermentable
    • Oligosaccharides (like fructans and galacto-oligosaccharides)
    • Disaccharides (like lactose)
    • Monosaccharides (like excess fructose)
    • Polyols (like sorbitol and mannitol)

    These are short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and can cause gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and even fatigue or brain fog in some people. So when we talk about what foods to avoid, especially if you have gut sensitivity, we’re often talking about high FODMAP foods.


    🚫 Common High FODMAP Foods to Avoid

    Here’s a rundown of some common culprits:

    🍞 Grains & Breads

    • Wheat, rye, and barley (especially in large amounts like in pasta or bread)
    • Many commercial gluten-free products (surprise—they’re not always low FODMAP!)

    🧅 Vegetables

    • Onions and garlic – two of the biggest offenders
    • Cauliflower, broccoli stalks, asparagus, mushrooms (especially portobello)
    • Leeks, shallots, artichokes

    💡 Want a quick way to see which veggies are high FODMAP and which are safe? Try using the Low FODMAP Food Calculator — it helps you search any food instantly!

    🍎 Fruits

    • Apples, pears, watermelon, mangoes, cherries, plums, peaches
    • Fruit juices or dried fruits often contain concentrated FODMAPs

    🥛 Dairy

    • Milk, yogurt, soft cheeses, ice cream (due to lactose)
    • Be wary of cream-based sauces and milky coffees too

    🍬 Sweeteners

    • Sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, and maltitol (often found in sugar-free gum or candies)
    • Honey and high-fructose corn syrup

    🥫 Legumes

    • Lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans, black beans

    🥦 But Wait—What CAN I Eat?

    That’s the beauty of the Low FODMAP Diet. It’s not about cutting out everything forever—it’s about temporarily removing high FODMAP foods, then slowly reintroducing them to figure out what your body tolerates best.

    During the elimination phase, you can enjoy plenty of gut-friendly, low FODMAP options, like:

    • Rice, quinoa, oats
    • Zucchini, carrots, bell peppers, spinach, potatoes
    • Blueberries, strawberries, kiwi, pineapple, bananas (unripe)
    • Lactose-free dairy or alternatives like almond milk
    • Meat, fish, and eggs (unprocessed)
    • Herbs and spices like basil, thyme, and rosemary for flavor

    🛠️ Need help swapping ingredients in your favorite recipe? The Low FODMAP Food Calculator lets you adjust meals on the fly with easy low FODMAP alternatives. It’s like having a dietitian in your pocket!


    ✅ The “Avoid” List Isn’t Forever

    Here’s something people often forget: The Low FODMAP diet is temporary.

    The elimination phase usually lasts 4–6 weeks, followed by a structured reintroduction phase where you test each FODMAP group to see what your body can handle. Many people find they’re only sensitive to one or two categories—so they don’t have to restrict everything long term.

    And even within high FODMAP foods, portion size matters. For example, a small amount of broccoli might be totally fine, while a full plate may trigger symptoms.

    That’s why using tools like the Low FODMAP Food Calculator is such a game-changer—it doesn’t just say “yes or no,” it shows you what works in the right amounts.


    🧡 Listen to Your Gut (Literally)

    At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all list of foods to avoid. Your gut is unique, and your triggers might be different from someone else’s.

    But if bloating, cramping, or IBS has been dragging you down, focusing on FODMAPs is a smart place to start.

    • Start by identifying the most common high FODMAP foods
    • Use the Low FODMAP Food Calculator to double-check your pantry
    • Don’t be afraid to modify your recipes—there are safe swaps for almost everything
    • And remember: it’s not about restriction forever—it’s about learning what works best for you

    📲 Ready to take control of your gut health?

    Use the Low FODMAP Food Calculator to start exploring today! Whether you’re cooking, grocery shopping, or just wondering why something upset your stomach, it’s your go-to tool for making low FODMAP life easier.

  • Gluten-Free vs Low FODMAP: What’s the Difference?

    Gluten-Free vs Low FODMAP: What’s the Difference?

    With gut health in the spotlight, diet labels like gluten-free and low FODMAP can get confusing. A common question: are they the same thing?

    If you’re navigating digestive discomfort, the answer matters—and it can make a real difference in how your gut feels after meals.

    Let’s break it down in plain language so you can make smart food choices with confidence.


    Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For most people, gluten is harmless. But for some, it can be a big problem:

    • People with celiac disease have an immune reaction to gluten that damages the lining of their small intestine.
    • People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity can also feel bloated, tired, or foggy after eating gluten—but without the same immune damage.

    So, the gluten-free diet removes all foods that contain gluten. This includes most breads, pastas, pastries, and even some sauces and seasonings.


    Now enter FODMAPs: short-chain carbs that are poorly absorbed in the gut.

    They stand for:

    • Fermentable
    • Oligosaccharides
    • Disaccharides
    • Monosaccharides
    • And Polyols

    FODMAPs can cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, and other IBS symptoms because they ferment in the gut and draw water into the intestines.

    So, the Low FODMAP diet removes high-FODMAP foods like:

    • Onion and garlic
    • Wheat (in large amounts)
    • Milk, apples, beans, and more

    The key difference? The Low FODMAP diet is not about gluten, it’s about carbs that ferment in the gut.


    Nope. Not the same thing.

    Here’s a simple breakdown:

    Gluten-FreeLow FODMAP
    FocusRemoves gluten (a protein)Removes certain fermentable carbs
    Good forCeliac disease, gluten sensitivityIBS, bloating, gut discomfort
    Wheat allowed?NoOnly in small amounts
    Dairy allowed?YesSome types only (lactose-free)
    Onion/Garlic allowed?YesNo (they’re high FODMAP)

    Some foods overlap! For example:

    • Wheat contains both gluten (a protein) and fructans (a FODMAP carb).
    • When you avoid wheat on a Low FODMAP diet, you’re doing it because of the fructans, not the gluten.
    • So gluten-free bread might also be low FODMAP—but not always!

    This overlap creates confusion, especially when people feel better after switching to gluten-free. It might not be the gluten—they might just be eating fewer FODMAPs without knowing it!


    Surprisingly, yes, in small amounts.

    The Low FODMAP diet isn’t strictly gluten-free. For example:

    • Sourdough spelt bread (made traditionally) can be low in FODMAPs, even though it contains gluten.
    • Soy sauce is often fine too—it has tiny amounts of wheat but is still low FODMAP in small servings.

    So, if you’re not sensitive to gluten itself, there’s no need to go totally gluten-free on a Low FODMAP diet. The goal is to manage fermentable carbs, not gluten.


    Trying to figure out what’s safe to eat? You’re not alone—it’s confusing at first!

    That’s why using a Low FODMAP diet calculator is a smart move. It helps you:

    ✅ Check whether a food is high or low FODMAP
    ✅ See if your favorite gluten-free snack is also low FODMAP
    ✅ Find suitable recipes without second-guessing every ingredient

    No more endless searching or food label anxiety—just tap and go.


    Gluten-free and Low FODMAP are not the same, but they sometimes cross paths.

    • If you have celiac disease, you must follow a strict gluten-free diet.
    • If you have IBS, the Low FODMAP diet may be your best bet.
    • If you’re sensitive to both? You can combine both approaches—but do so with a dietitian’s help.

    Whatever path you’re on, remember that your gut is unique—and the more you learn, the better you can support it.

    And if you need help figuring things out along the way, let tools like the Low FODMAP calculator be your sidekick.