SIBO is….
SIBO is….FODMAP is the acronym given by Monash University (Australia) to foods rich in Fermentable Oligo, Di, Monosaccharides And Polyols (fermentable oligo, di, monosaccharides and polyols). The low FODMAP diet is applied to certain cases that present with digestive symptoms. These compounds refer to a group of short-chain carbohydrates and polyols that are not fully digested in the small intestine, reaching the colon intact or almost intact, where they serve as food for the bacteria found there.
Physiologically, we have the intestinal microbiota (a set of bacteria that inhabit the large intestine mainly, although it is also found in other sections), which when altered, which is known as dysbiosis, produces intestinal symptoms with the ingestion of these compounds mentioned (FODMAP). When the bacteria in imbalance use these compounds as food, fermentation occurs, which results in the release of gases and osmotic imbalance, thus producing diarrhea or constipation, gas, bloating…
Therefore, the low FODMAP diet is a diet low in these compounds, with the aim of improving symptoms, but taking into account that, with this diet, despite reducing symptoms, the cause is not treated and appropriate treatment prescribed by a medical professional is necessary (according to the results of medical tests). In addition, the low FODMAP diet is a tool that helps with diagnosis, based on the foods that make you feel good or bad. Therefore, in some cases it is important to keep a record of symptoms and a dietary diary (indicating quantities is better).
This diet consists of 3 phases, individualized in each case:
- – FODMAP withdrawal. Its duration is short due to its high level of restriction.
- – Reintroduction of tolerated FODMAPs. This should be done in groups and monitored by a
professional, in order to identify those FODMAPs causing the symptoms.
- – Readaptation to a normal, balanced diet.
Each person needs an individualized approach tailored to their situation, context, symptoms and diagnoses. Not all SIBO are the same or require the same approach.
