High-FODMAP vegetables include: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, chicory leaves, globe and Jerusalem artichokes, karela, leeks, mushrooms and snow peas (7, 8). Low-FODMAP vegetables include: Bean sprouts, capsicum, carrot, choy sum, eggplant, kale, tomato, spinach and zucchini (7, 8).
Unfortunately, cauliflower is a no-go when it comes to a low FODMAP diet. This is because cauliflower contains high levels of mannitol, a common FODMAP within vegetables. FODMAPS are carbohydrates which your small bowel cannot digest. Instead, the bacteria in your large bowel ferment them, result in gas production.
Cruciferous Vegetables
This can contribute to bloating, abdominal pain, and gas. Cruciferous vegetables to avoid when you have IBS include: Broccoli. Cauliflower.
Fresh tomatoes are in the low FODMAP category, so can be eaten freely and according to appetite.
“Egg is on the list of foods you're allowed to have on the low-FODMAP diet. Eggs help because they're rich in proteins and nutrients and very low in fermentable carbohydrates. This means they are less likely to cause symptoms,” Dr. Lee explains.
Eggs are a healthy, nutritious and delicious base for low-FODMAP meals. Either fried, boiled, scrambled or poached eggs are low in FODMAP. Eggs should not trigger your IBS symptoms, however if you cook them with other ingredients then it may seem like they do.
Cauliflower Is Anti-inflammatory
Bioactive compounds found in cauliflower are known to reduce inflammation, as was reported in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2014. The vegetable is also rich in antioxidants, including types known to counter oxidative stress.
While everyone's tolerance is different, too much cauliflower can create G.I. distress, like excess gas and bloating. “Make sure to drink enough water to move it through your system,” suggests Lincoln. Cooking it can also dial back digestion woes.
Greek yoghurt is higher in fat and protein than natural yoghurt as much of the lactose has been strained out of it, which is why it is low FODMAP. So when choosing yoghurt, make sure to opt for Greek, or lactose-free options to ensure that you are sticking to low FODMAP options.
Good Digestion
As a cruciferous vegetable, cauliflower is an excellent source of fiber — most Americans consume less than half of the recommended daily amount. This fiber content helps maintain healthy digestion — reducing your risk of digestive disorders — and promotes good bacteria growth in your gut.
Zucchini can be low FODMAP, but it's one of those foods where serving size matters. Per Monash University, zucchini is low FODMAP in small servings of ⅓ cup, diced, or 65 grams. The FODMAP Friendly Food Program has also tested zucchini and they give it a pass at a slightly larger ½ cup or a 75-gram serving.
Eggs digest easily and are a safe choice for people with IBS. Eggs can be enjoyed hard-boiled, soft-boiled, scrambled, or poached. Omelets and frittatas can be your meal of choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and make a great option when eating out in a restaurant.
Coffee is low FODMAP, but caffeine can be an irritant for many people, those with IBS and even those without, hence the confusion. Coffee contains caffeine, which is a gut irritant,so although it may be low FODMAP, there are still other issues to address.
Aged cheeses include Cheddar, Camembert, Cheshire, Pecorino Style, Swiss, Brie, Blue Cheese, Havarti, or Parmesan. These are low FODMAP cheese options and they are normally well tolerated by people with lactose intolerance.
Broccoli heads are considered low FODMAP in ¾ cup (75g) servings, but the stalks are only low FODMAP in servings up a 1/3 cup (45g). If you're eating whole broccoli, both the head and stems, it's best to stick to servings up to ¾ cup (75g).
Chicken is one of our favorite protein building blocks for an easy, delicious low FODMAP meal. Sometimes you can get in a rut though and end up making the same chicken recipes over and over. With a little bit of forethought you can add variety and additional flavors and nutrients to your diet very easily!
Traditional sourdough breads made from wheat, wholemeal wheat, and spelt flours are low FODMAP because they contain reduced levels of fructans (2). This means they can make a great low FODMAP bread option.
Carrots are a FODMAP-free food. Enjoy according to your appetite.