GUEST BLOG: How the Low-FODMAP Diet and FodShop Supports IBS Patients
How does the Low-FODMAP diet and FodShop support IBS patients?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder affecting up to 11% of the global population, with symptoms including bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain (Canavan, West, & Card, 2014).
One of the most effective dietary interventions for managing IBS is the low-FODMAP diet, which has been shown to reduce symptoms in approximately 75% of IBS patients (Staudacher et al., 2017).
This diet, developed by researchers at Monash University, limits the intake of fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), which are poorly absorbed carbohydrates that contribute to gut symptoms (Gibson & Shepherd, 2010).
While highly effective, the low-FODMAP diet can be restrictive and challenging to navigate, particularly when it comes to finding suitable food options. This is where FodShop steps in.
What is FodShop?
FodShop is the world’s first online commercial FODMAP nutritionist-run shop and gastroenterology resource, supplying thousands of low-FODMAP food products from hundreds of innovative brands. In addition to catering to those following a low-FODMAP diet, FodShop meets various food intolerance, allergen-friendly, and specific nutrition requirements.
The online store features a unique tag-filtering system, allowing customers to search for products based on medical conditions, dietary needs, and lifestyle preferences. The product range has been carefully assessed for FODMAP content across Australian, USA, UK, Canadian, and New Zealand food supplies to ensure suitability for those following a low-FODMAP diet.
FodShop was founded by Shaynie Leber, a clinical and commercial FODMAP nutrition expert with over 10 years of experience in the field, combining retail pharmacy and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) skills to leverage FodShop as an accessible online gut health food and supplement resource.
Addressing the Challenges of the Low-FODMAP Diet
When IBS patients begin their low-FODMAP journey, they quickly realise how restrictive the diet can be. Many staple foods are suddenly off-limits, creating feelings of frustration and uncertainty. Shopping for low-FODMAP options can be time-consuming and exhausting, requiring careful ingredient list navigation.
How FodShop Supports the IBS Community
The benefits of using FodShop for your IBS needs
Since its inception, FodShop has served over 45,000 customers, establishing itself as Australia’s (and possibly the world’s) leading and most trusted gut-health-focused online and retail store. More than just a health food store, FodShop is a reliable resource for gastroenterology nutrition, general and specialist practitioners supporting their patients throughout their gut health journeys.
The convenience of having all suitable products in one place relieves the stress of searching for appropriate foods, making it easier for IBS patients to adhere to the low-FODMAP diet. Customers can shop in-store or online, with expert staff available during business hours and online support available 24/7.
Additionally, FodShop collaborates with dietitians and healthcare professionals, making referrals as appropriate to clients dwelling in regions all across the world, serving as a referral point for IBS patients requiring low-FODMAP nutrition support beyond the immediate capacity of its retail store and online offering.
A Note From Ben:
As I live with IBS myself I’m well-versed with the complexities of the Low-FODMAP diet and having an unstable digestive system at the best of times! We love many of the gluten free brands listed on the Fodshop store. If you’d like to try out Fodshop, here’s our affiliate link.
Where to Find FodShop
FodShop’s full range is available at fodshopper.com.au. Shop online 24/7, pick up your order in-store, or visit us in person:
Location: Factory 5, 30-32 Christensen Street, Cheltenham VIC 3192
Opening Hours: Weekdays 9 AM–5 PM, Weekends 10 AM–3 PM
Follow us: Instagram @fodshopper | Facebook @fodshop
For more information, visit our website or reach out to our expert team!
References:
● Canavan, C., West, J., & Card, T. (2014). The epidemiology of irritable bowel syndrome. Clinical Epidemiology, 6, 71-80.
● Gibson, P. R., & Shepherd, S. J. (2010). Evidence-based dietary management of functional gastrointestinal symptoms: The FODMAP approach. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 25(2), 252-258.
● Staudacher, H. M., Whelan, K., Irving, P. M., & Lomer, M. C. (2017). Mechanisms and efficacy of dietary FODMAP restriction in IBS. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 14(12), 741-753.
