Helping Kids Manage GI Distress: Could the Low FODMAP Diet Make a Difference?

Posted May 8, 2025 | Uncategorized

Jen Orleow MS, CN 

Does your child complain about stomachaches, bloating, or needing to rush to the bathroom? It’s more common than you might think, and food could be playing a role. Many children with digestive discomfort may benefit from a special approach called the Low FODMAP diet. Similar to common elimination diets, this approach can help to identify foods which may be triggering uncomfortable symptoms while also giving the lining of the gut time to heal and the gut microflora an opportunity to restore to a healthier balance. 

Originally designed for adults with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), the Low FODMAP diet is now being used more frequently to help children manage chronic tummy troubles. But it’s not a long-term diet or something to try on your own. Kids have unique nutritional needs, and that’s where working with a qualified nutritionistbecomes so important.

What is the Low FODMAP Diet?

FODMAPs are a group of short-chain carbohydrates that some people have trouble digesting. FODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols. Examples of these include:

• Lactose (in milk and yogurt)
• Fructose (in some fruits and sweeteners)
• Fructans (in garlic, onions, wheat)
• Galacto-oligosaccharides (in beans, lentils)
• Polyols (in apples, pears, and some artificial sweeteners)

When these carbohydrates aren’t absorbed well, they can ferment in the gut—causing gas, pain,bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.

The Low FODMAP diet is done in three phases:

1. Elimination – Temporarily removing high-FODMAP foods.
2. Reintroduction – Slowly testing specific foods to see which ones trigger symptoms.
3. Personalization – Creating a long-term eating plan that supports digestive health and growth.

This process can be incredibly helpful—but also tricky. Professional support from a clinical nutritionist ensures your child gets the nutrients they need while helping you make the diet work for your family. This process doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or impossible and it can be incredibly helpful having someone navigate all of the confusing and often conflicting information out there on the internet for you.

We’re Here to Help!

Starting a Low FODMAP diet can feel hard, especially when you’re trying to support a growing child. Our clinical nutritionist can:

• Create a safe, personalized meal plan
• Help you navigate food labels and school lunches
• Provide simple, kid-tested recipes
• Support your child’s growth and energy needs every step of the way

Interested in learning more or scheduling an appointment?
We’d love to help your child feel better—and bring more peace to your mealtimes. Please contact the front desk to schedule an appointment or reach out with further questions. In the meantime, enjoy this recipe for a healthier spin on chicken nuggets that is also low FODMAP compliant. 

Crispy, Dairy-Free Low FODMAP Chicken Nuggets

(Kid-friendly, freezer-ready, and great for lunchboxes!)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 eggs (or egg replacer if needed)
• ¼ cup gluten-free flour (like rice or oat flour)
• 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (FODMAP-friendly and garlic/onion-free)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp sea salt
• Avocado oil 

Instructions:

1. Set up 3 bowls: one with gluten-free flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with gluten-free breadcrumbs mixed with spices and salt.
2. Dip chicken pieces into gluten-free flour, then egg, then gluten-free breadcrumbs.
3. Sautee in avocado oil until golden and cooked through, OR bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serve with low FODMAP ketchup or a homemade yogurt-free dipping sauce like mashed avocado with lime and salt!