November 14, 2018

The gastrointestinal tract or gut is a complex organ that is responsible for the digestion of food and excretion of indigestible material. For people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms in the gut such as bloating, lower abdominal discomfort or pain, diarrhoea and constipation can significantly impact on the person’s quality of life. For many years effective dietary management was limited until researchers at Monash University developed the FODMAP diet. The acronym stands for

  • Fermentable
  • Oligosaccharides
  • Disaccharides
  • Monosaccharides, and
  • Polyols

These FODMAPs are non-digested carbohydrates found in a range of foods that for some people can cause symptoms. We know that 3 out of 4 people with diagnosed IBS will get improvement in their symptoms through undergoing the FODMAP elimination diet. It is important to note that this diet is temporary and through elimination, challenges to establish tolerance levels of particular FODMAPs and finally an individualised eating diet plan is the best strategy to a healthy diet. As a dietitian with expertise in managing people with IBS and the FODMAP diet, Michelle can help you navigate this complex diet to find the right balance for you.





More Optimal Tips

Help me pick a pillow!
Help me pick a pillow!

July 17, 2024

Choosing a pillow can feel like an overwhelming and confusing task, with the guidelines of this article we hope you feel informed and empowered to find a solution to your sleep related troubles

Continue Reading

Is your gut healthy? What is all this talk about gut microbiome?
Is your gut healthy? What is all this talk about gut microbiome?

July 17, 2024

Gut health and the gut microbiome – these are big topics in the media currently, and yes, they are incredibly powerful factors in someone’s health status. Let Dietitian Emily help you better understand these ‘tummy topics’ and she’ll explain how her expertise in dietary assessment + treatment can support your efforts to feel at your best by feeding the gut best!  

Continue Reading

Every bodily cell benefits from exercise!
Every bodily cell benefits from exercise!

July 17, 2024

Yes, it is literally all systems GO when we are talking about the benefits of exercise. Our heart, lungs, kidneys and nervous system (and more) have positive responses to exercise, and thus did you know you can effectively treat common chronic diseases like depression and diabetes with exercise? Read on to learn more!

Continue Reading