Do you suffer from stomach issues that affect your daily life? For as long as I can remember, “tummy troubles” is something that I have always struggled with. You know what I mean when I speak of stomach pain, bloating, indigestion, and food sensitivities.
After all, digestive distress isn’t something I like to bring up at a dinner party. So, I mostly kept this sensitive topic to myself.
But after several doctor’s appointments, and not finding the relief I was searching for, I took matters into my own hands. And I found myself embarking on a long healing journey.
What Led Me to the Low FODMAP Diet
It starts with a lifestyle change that had to do with diet, colonics, seasonal cleanses, and gut resets. I have done it all. And it felt good with the results. But my bloating didn’t change, and it actually became worse.
The fact that I looked nine months pregnant didn’t help my case. Even when you eat healthily, it can be frustrating to no end when you don’t understand what is going on.
As the bloating became less tolerable, I finally sought help from a functional medicine doctor. Soon after, I was diagnosed with SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth), also known as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). The suggested treatment for my symptoms was the Low FODMAP diet and taking lots of probiotics.
What is the Low FODMAP Diet?
Reading about this nutritional approach helped me to understand how random foods can be bothersome to your digestive system. And it finally all made sense! I was ready to transition.
But there’s nothing more nerve-wracking knowing how limited your life can be when you have to make new changes.
If you can relate to this and you are ready for a change, have no fear. With lots of courage and motivation, I can help you turn your life around.
So, what is the Low FODMAP diet? It may sound complicated, but it’s simply a diet involving low fermentable carbs. This diet is often recommended for those that struggle with IBS.
FODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligo Di Monosaccharides and Polyols. You can read this article here to grab more information on the Low FODMAP diet.
How the Low FODMAP Diet Helps with My Digestive Issues
In my experience, the diet is very limiting. You begin by eliminating foods such as gluten, dairy (which I was already off of), garlic, onions, cauliflower, corn, soy, beans, apples, avocados, broccoli. You get the full picture.
With much determination and lots of dedication, I became a Low FODMAP soldier. The lists and tools I carry with me, help me stick to my mission. Even with demanding work schedule and family life.
It is hard! But you have to WANT this change to succeed. I made it. And I know you can too. For the first time in my life, my tummy size decreased significantly, and it felt GREAT. Not only did I feel amazing, but I lost weight too.
FODMAP Can Change Your Life Around
The best part about my FODMAP journey was taking back control of my health. Where I was once ruled by the aftermath of a “bad” eating day, I now know that I can turn back to the elimination phase of the FODMAP diet and settle my symptoms.
Fortunately, as I’ve continued to learn more about FODMAPs and nutrition, I’ve been able to further manage my symptoms. Today, I continue to follow my own personalized low FODMAP lifestyle and I happily live without gluten, dairy and soy products.
As a patient myself, and a health-focused chef, I feel I can offer a unique perspective on this topic.
I understand what my clients go through, and I can help you navigate the medical system effectively. One of the key things I’ve learned in the area of digestive health is a positive attitude goes a long way.
Have Faith in Making New Changes
Focus on the small victories. Be patient, as deciphering digestive health problems can take some time.
Sharing my story at times has made me feel vulnerable, but I am glad I found the courage to share it with you. If I had known in my past what I know now, I would have done things differently. But, I can’t. I can, however, encourage you to be an advocate for your own health.
Ask questions. Do research. Get a second opinion. Keep experimenting. Because nutrition and health are not a one-size-fits-all solution.
