n. an *elimination diet in which foods containing short-chain fermentable carbohydrates (fermentable, oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) are avoided. These carbohydrates are poorly absorbed in the small intestine leading to changes in bacterial fermentation and fluid content, thus triggering functional gut symptoms, such as diarrhoea and constipation in susceptible individuals. It is used primarily to treat *irritable bowel syndrome.
a diet in which foods suspected of not being tolerated are removed for a period of time and then reintroduced sequentially to identify any that then precipitate symptoms (e.g. *FODMAPS). An exclusion diet is a variant of this, in which a single food is excluded and symptoms monitored for any improvements (e.g. a lactose-free diet).... elimination diet
(IBS) a common functional bowel disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain, altered stool consistency, and variable frequency of defecation. The symptoms, which may differ from individual to individual, may be caused by abnormal contractions of the colon, heightened sensitivity to such stimuli as stretching or distension, stress, and changes in diet. A minority of people may develop symptoms following an episode of gastroenteritis (postinfectious irritable bowel syndrome). Tests may be needed to rule out organic disease. Treatment includes reassurance, dietary manipulation (see FODMAPS), the use of antispasmodics, antidiarrhoeal drugs or laxatives, and drugs that reduce the sensitivity of the bowel (such as low-dose amitriptyline).... irritable bowel syndrome
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