The low-down on IBS and FODMAPs

Your gut is your unique ecosystem or blueprint and should be alive and flourishing. However, for some people, the gut can feel like it’s constantly on fire, with symptoms of bloating, abdominal discomfort, pain, diarrhoea and/or constipation. Grouped together, these are common characteristics of a condition called irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Unfortunately, this condition can induce fear with each bite of food.

What is IBS?

IBS is a chronic condition defined by abdominal pain or discomfort, with changes in stool frequency and consistency. It affects more than one in five Australians and is twice as common in women. Key symptoms include recurring episodes of diarrhoea or constipation, abdominal discomfort and bloating. Your doctor will diagnose IBS if you have suffered these symptoms at least once weekly for a period of three months or more. Before confirming a diagnosis,