The Low FODMAP diet for children

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that is common in not only adults but also kids. Symptoms may include diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea and excess wind. 

A diet that is lacking in fibre and fluid intake, irregular eating, inadequate sleep, stress, anxiety and certain foods may all contribute to IBS symptoms.

A low FODMAP diet is an evidence-based approach that may help to manage symptoms of medically diagnosed IBS.

What is a low FODMAP diet?

FODMAPs stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols. They are short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in those with IBS. 

The low FODMAP diet was developed by Monash University as a treatment method for IBS.

It is a short-term approach that includes a 2-6 week elimination phase, a reintroduction phase to challenge individual FODMAPs for identifying triggers, and a personalisation phase. Following a low FODMAP diet is for the short-term only.

Following a low FODMAP diet in children

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Low FODMAP eating can be a challenging diet for kids, so seek regular support from a dietitian. 

This will also help ensure that your child is getting all the nutrients that they need to support healthy growth and development.

Here’s what to keep in mind when it comes to key nutrients and healthy eating for kids on a low FODMAP plan.

Calcium

Calcium plays a key role in the formation of healthy bones and teeth, which is critical for children. Calcium may be lacking during a low FODMAP diet due to the reduction of lactose.

Lactose exists in many dairy products like milk, yoghurt and some cheese which is also a main source of calcium. 

Good low FODMAP sources of calcium such as lactose-free milk and yoghurt, soy milk (calcium-fortified), and hard cheese.

Include FODMAP friendly fibre-rich foods such as low FODMAP breads and plenty of safe fruits and vegetables.

Fibre

Fibre plays an important role in maintaining healthy bowel function (it makes our bowels more regular and easier to pass).

Fibre can be low on a low FODMAP diet due to the restriction of certain fruits, vegetables, nuts and wholegrains. 

Include FODMAP friendly fibre-rich foods such as low FODMAP breads and cereals, rolled oats, suitable nuts such as macadamias, walnuts, peanut butter, seeds and seeded snacks, brown rice, buckwheat pasta, and plenty of safe fruits and vegetables.

Prebiotics

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Prebiotics are a type of fibre that promotes the growth of good gut bacteria. Many prebiotics are high FODMAP foods, so it is important to include safe alternatives. 

Low FODMAP sources of prebiotics (in safe portions) include tinned corn (<75g), tinned lentils (<1/2 cup), tinned chickpeas (<1/4 cup), just-ripe banana, kiwi fruit, rolled oats, and red cabbage (<75g).

Energy

Any restrictive diet has the risk of decreasing energy intake, which may delay growth or lead to weight loss. It is therefore critical that children are receiving enough energy when following a low FODMAP diet, which is another reason why working with a dietitian is so important.   

Energy-dense foods for kids on a low FODMAP diet are safe nuts and nut butters (walnuts, pecans, peanuts/peanut butter, macadamias), eggs, lactose-free yoghurt and milk, most cheeses, extra virgin olive oil, seeds and seeded snacks, oily fish such as salmon and sardines, and low FODMAP wholegrains.  

Water

Water plays an important role in hydration as well as gut function and bowel regularity. Fluid requirements differ depending on the age and activity level of children but a good rule of thumb is using urine colour as a guide (it should be pale straw – almost clear in colour).  

If your child doesn’t enjoy water, try infusing it with sliced cucumber or citrus or safe amounts of frozen berries.

The low FODMAP diet is one approach that can be effective in managing symptoms in children with IBS. As mentioned above, it is important to do so with the support of your health care team including a dietitian and GP.  It is also important that IBS is medically diagnosed to rule out other potential causes of symptoms such as coeliac disease and food allergy. 

Reviewed by the healthylife Advisory Board February 2022