Are French Fries Low FODMAP?

Written by Amy Kaczor MS RD LDN, Registered Dietitian

Are French fries low FODMAP?

French fries are a famous crispy and salty side dish, often baked or deep-fried in oil. French fries are a suitable option for individuals following a low FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) diet to manage irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as they do not often contain wheat. Baked French fries are preferable, as greasy foods can often aggravate symptoms for someone with IBS. Additionally, when consuming French fries at a restaurant establishment, ensure onion and garlic are not used to season and that the French fries are fried in separate oil from wheat-based products. According to the Monash University FODMAP Diet app, half of a medium potato is an appropriate serving size considered low FODMAP.

However, ketchup, often enjoyed with French fries, is not as low FODMAP friendly. Check out this article for more information regarding ketchup for individuals on a low FODMAP diet.

What are the health benefits of French fries?

French fries deep-fried in oil are often high in saturated fats, associated with an increased risk of heart disease. However, the potatoes themselves have some excellent health benefits. According to the Cleveland Clinic (2021), these starchy vegetables contain potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, fiber, and protein. Leaving the skin on when preparing and consuming is the best way to get the maximum nutrition from potatoes.

Summary

This post aims to answer your questions regarding the low FODMAP diet and French fries as a low FODMAP food.

Stay tuned for more posts about low FODMAP foods. Also, check out our other pages for more information on managing digestive health.

References

Fenneld. (2021, December 30). Are potatoes healthy? Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved April 21, 2022, from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/are-potatoes-healthy/

Veloso, H. G. (n.d.). FODMAP diet: What you need to know. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Retrieved April 21, 2022, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness- and-prevention/fodmap-diet-what-you-need-to-know