Low FODMAP Diet in Athletes

Gastrointestinal (GI) distress is a common complaint amongst athletes and exercising individuals, especially those participating in endurance activities. A common culprit of GI distress during exercise is an individual’s dietary intake around and during an event. Dietary factors that contribute to GI distress are frequently fibrous and/or fermentable foods, including FODMAPs. FODMAP stands for fermentable, oligosaccharides, disaccharide, monosaccharides, and polyols, and are food components that interact heavily with the gut microbiota which can result in excessive gas production, bloat, and GI distress. The use of a low FODMAP diet has been demonstrated to be efficacious in reducing GI complications in those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Furthermore, research suggests that limiting high FODMAP foods with those participating in intense endurance exercise may provide benefit and reduce gastrointestinal distress. Evidence on the optimal length of duration for the use of the low FODMAP diet in these populations varies, with studies demonstrating benefit with a 24 to 48-hour intervention up to a 3 to 6-day intervention. Understanding the interplay between FODMAP containing foods and GI complications during exercise is important in that it may allow application of periodized low FODMAP diets prior to and during an exercise event. Thus, the purpose of this literature review is to examine the impact of low FODMAP diets on gastrointestinal distress and exercise performance in active individuals and athletes