The Low FODMAP Diet: A Dietitian’s Guide | 078

Struggling with gas, bloating, stomach cramps, IBS, IBD, or SIBO? Meghan Donnelly—dietitian and certified FODMAP practitioner—lays out in detail how the Low FODMAP Diet can help manage symptoms.  

We start with the basics: what FODMAPs are, why these carbohydrates are difficult to digest, and the common foods that can aggravate digestive distress.  

From there, Meghan outlines how Monash University developed the FODMAP protocol and the go-to app. Then walks us through the protocol’s three phases, and the importance of consulting with a qualified dietitian who can help determine trigger foods to rethink your diet in the least restrictive way.  

She covers who can benefit from a low-FODMAP approach, who should not be limiting their diets in this way, and how the key to success is personalization. Meghan stresses that the protocol is not treatment for digestive conditions, but a dietary intervention to reduce the discomfort and suffering from them.  

Debunking popular misconceptions, Meghan addresses why the diet is a short-term strategy, and how most people go at it wrong. She stresses the dangers of being on the protocol long-term.  

This conversation goes way beyond “eat this, avoid that.” We discuss how stress, sleep, and exercise impact gut health. And wrap up with lifestyle strategies, natural therapies, mental health practices, and supplements that can improve our digestion. 

The key takeaway: Embrace a holistic approach to a FODMAP diet and personalize with support from qualified practitioners.  

TESS’S TAKEAWAYS: 

• FODMAPs are short-chain carbohydrates that can cause digestive problems. 
• The Low FODMAP Diet is a temporary therapeutic protocol, not a long-term plan. 
• The protocol is a three-step process—elimination, reintroduction, and personalization.  
• The protocol is the most evidence-based dietary strategy for managing IBS. 
• It can also support people with IBD, SIBO, and ongoing bloating or endometriosis.  
• FODMAP sensitivities may shift with foodborne illnesses, stress, or hormone changes.  
• Once you determine food triggers, liberalize your diet to avoid nutrient deficiencies.  
• Without the guidance of a practitioner, the FODMAP Diet can do more harm than good. 

ABOUT MEGHAN DONNELLY, MS, RDN, CDN 

Meghan is a registered dietitian specializing in gastrointestinal nutrition, and is Director Of Health Communications at the Celiac Disease Foundation.  

Her experience spans clinical practice, nutrition counseling, medical nonprofits, and the food industry. 

In her private practice at Nutmeg Nutrition, Meghan helps her clients establish a balanced and joyful relationship with food, particularly when managing digestive disorders (IBS and SIBO), food intolerances, gluten-related conditions (celiac disease), and disordered eating.   

She also provides nutrition counseling for heart health, kidney disease, weight management, and food intolerances. Monash University certified, she guides clients on Low-FODMAP diets.   

As lead dietitian for Skinny60®, Meghan provides nutrition education and support for participants in the 60-Day Reset.  

CONNECT WITH MEGHAN 

Consult with Meghan: https://www.nutmegnutrition.org/ 

Join the 60-Day Reset: https://www.skinny60.com/60-day-reset/ 

MEET TESS MASTERS:   

Tess Masters is an actor, presenter, health coach, cook, and author of The Blender Girl, The Blender Girl Smoothies, and The Perfect Blend, published by Penguin Random House. She is also the creator of the Skinny60® health programs.       

Health tips and recipes by Tess have been featured in the LA Times, Washington Post, InStyle, Prevention, Shape, Glamour, Real Simple, Yoga Journal, Yahoo Health, Hallmark Channel, The Today Show, and many others.    

Tess’s magnetic personality, infectious enthusiasm, and down-to-earth approach have made her a go-to personality for people of all dietary stripes who share her conviction that healthy living can be easy and fun. Get delicious recipes at TheBlenderGirl.com.    

CONNECT WITH TESS:  

Website:  https://tessmasters.com/     

Podcast:  https://ithastobeme.com/      

Health Programs: https://www.skinny60.com/  

Delicious Recipes: https://www.theblendergirl.com/  

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theblendergirl/     

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theblendergirl/     

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/theblendergirl    

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessmasters/ 

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