What is a low-FODMAP diet?

An evidence-based elimination diet that temporarily removes fermentable carbohydrates (found in wheat, onions, garlic, beans, apples, dairy) for 4-6 weeks, then systematically reintroduces them to identify personal triggers.

Abdominal Pain and Bloating: IBS, Food Intolerance, or SIBO?

Important Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

Overview

This pairing is the hallmark of functional GI disorders. The gut's nervous system (enteric nervous system) becomes hypersensitive, amplifying normal digestive signals into pain, while altered gut motility or bacterial fermentation produces excessive gas and bloating.

Possible Causes

IBS

common

Visceral hypersensitivity causes the small intestine and colon to overreact to normal distension from food and gas.

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Food Intolerance

common

Lactose, fructose, or FODMAP sensitivity causes osmotic fluid shifts and bacterial fermentation producing gas.

SIBO

less-common

Bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine ferments food prematurely, producing gas within 30-60 minutes of eating.

When It Is Serious

Unintentional weight loss, blood in stool, progressive worsening, onset after age 50, or family history of GI cancer require thorough investigation.

When It's Likely Benign

Symptoms that fluctuate with diet, worsen during stress, and improve after bowel movements are typical of IBS.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Bloating Guide Stomach Pain Guide

Medically Reviewed for Accuracy

Medical Advisory Board

•Last reviewed: March 20, 2026

Content is aligned with established clinical guidelines from authoritative medical institutions, including MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine), the CDC, the NIH, and the NHS. All content is reviewed by our medical advisory board for accuracy and safety.