Are figs a low FODMAP food?

Figs are a delicious and sweet fruit with origins in the Middle East that you can enjoy as both fresh or dried. Whether added to a fresh salad, used in a tasty appetizer, or eaten by themselves as a snack, figs are packed full of nutrition and flavor. 

However, those following the low FODMAP diet may have to steer clear of figs. FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. These are types of sugars that may worsen the symptoms of individuals with irritable bowel syndrome. 

According to the Monash University FODMAP Diet app, fresh figs are typically high in the FODMAP fructose, a sugar found in fruits, and dried figs are high in the FODMAP fructan. Therefore, in the beginning stages of the FODMAP diet, figs must be severely limited in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome. 

Fortunately, rather than eliminating figs entirely from the diet, the Monash University app states that one teaspoon of fresh figs, specifically, is very unlikely to aggravate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. 

What are the health benefits of figs?

Not only are figs low in calories, but they are also a fantastic source of antioxidants, fiber, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium (Horton, 2020). 

Summary

We hope this post answered your questions about the figs and the low FODMAP diet. Stay tuned for more posts about the low FODMAP diet and low FODMAP foods! 

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

References

Horton, B. (2020). The health benefits of figs. EatingWell. Retrieved April 29, 2022, from https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7527644/the-health-benefits-of-figs/