Impact of FODMAPs on Gut Health and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. Dietary factors play a crucial role in symptom exacerbation and management. Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols (FODMAPs) are short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and rapidly fermented by colonic bacteria. These properties contribute to increased luminal water content, gas production, and gastrointestinal symptoms in susceptible individuals. Over the last decade, the low-FODMAP diet has emerged as an effective dietary intervention for IBS management. This review discusses the classification of FODMAPs, their effects on gut physiology and microbiota, mechanisms underlying symptom generation, clinical evidence supporting low-FODMAP diets, and future research perspectives. Current evidence indicates that low-FODMAP diets significantly improve IBS symptoms and quality of life; however, long-term dietary restriction requires careful monitoring to avoid adverse effects on gut microbiota and nutritional status.