Whilst it might be difficult to comprehend at the start of the diet, there is life after low FODMAP elimination. Although the elimination phase is the one we hear about the most, the low FODMAP diet is only considered safe and effective when completed as a whole. This means systematically working through each phase of the diet. The goal of this is to eventually eat as wide a variety as possible whilst keeping control of your symptoms.
Working with a FODMAP trained dietitian ultimately gives you the best chance of success. A dietitian will also be able to help you move through the diet in the way that best suits you and your symptoms.
Once you complete the elimination phase the diet becomes even more personalised. You'll discover your individual triggers and tolerances and adapt your progress accordingly.
Ideally, you should progress to the challenge phase as soon as your elimination phase is complete. This is because you'll continue to eat a low FODMAP diet for the duration of your challenges. If for any reason this isn't possible you should discuss this with your dietitian and come up with a reasonable timeframe for beginning your reintroductions. You may temporarily need to bring certain high FODMAP foods back into your diet. You can then continue with a short elimination period once you're ready to restart.
I'd argue that the most important part of the elimination phase is what comes after. Knowing you're sensitive to FODMAPs is only a very small part of the overall picture. Being able to reintroduce and confidently eat as many high FODMAP foods as possible is where the real power of the low FODMAP diet lies.
Confused about elimination phase? Check out the other posts in this series.
Ready to move on? Continue onto our reintroduction phase guide to learn more…
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