FODMAPS…

Some fruits and vegetables (along with beans, legumes, and dairy products) contain a short chained carbohydrate called FODMAP.

FODMAPS stand for: Fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. 

FODMAPS are short chain carbohydrates that the small intestine absorbs poorly.

The five types of FODMAPs are fructans, fructose, galactans, lactose, and polyols, which are a group of fermentable carbohydrates that can cause digestive issues in some individuals. 

Here's a more detailed explanation: 

• Fructans: These are chains of fructose molecules, found in foods like garlic, onions, wheat, and some fruits.

• Fructose: This is a simple sugar, found naturally in fruits, honey, and high fructose corn syrup.

• Galactans: These are chains of galactose molecules, found in beans and legumes.

• Lactose: This is a sugar found in dairy products.

• Polyols: These are sugar alcohols, found in fruits with pits (like apples, avocados, or cherries) and in certain sweeteners.

Thanks to changes in digestive enzyme production, digestive microflora, and reproductive hormones (which also help regulate the function of the gastrointestinal tract), the new and unwelcome challenge of FODMAP intolerance might emerge. 

Many previous friendly and otherwise ‘healthy’ fruits and vegetables may now cause problems. This usually shows up as bloating and other digestive issues after eating high FODMAP foods. 

A food and symptoms journal can be helpful, as it’s not always easy to spot the connection between the cabbage you ate an hour ago, and the gas you now have!

Trying a low FODMAP diet may help.