Children with functional abdominal pain disorders successfully decrease FODMAP food intake on a low FODMAP diet with...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Nutritional Science
• Dietary Interventions

Background:

• Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPD) are common in children.
• Dietary management, including low fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide, and polyol (FODMAP) diets (LFD), is a key strategy for FAPD.
• The impact of LFD on nutrient intake and diet quality in pediatric FAPD requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of a dietitian-guided LFD on high FODMAP food intake.
• To assess changes in nutrient intake and overall diet quality in children with FAPD on an LFD.
• To identify specific nutrient and food group modifications associated with LFD adherence.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of children (ages 7-13 years) diagnosed with Rome IV FAPD participated.
• Children followed a dietitian-guided LFD, with dietary intake assessed via 3-day food records at baseline and 2-3 weeks.
• Analysis included high FODMAP food consumption, energy, macronutrients, micronutrients, food groups, and ultra-processed food intake.

Main Results:

• 90% of children reduced high FODMAP food intake, with median daily intake decreasing significantly (p < 0.001).
• Diet quality improved, marked by increased vegetable and protein servings and decreased ultra-processed foods, trans-fatty acids, and added sugars.
• Micronutrient intake generally improved, with significant increases in vitamins B6, C, and E; more adherent children showed further improvements in vitamin D, magnesium, potassium, and fat intake.

Conclusions:

• A dietitian-led LFD is effective in reducing high FODMAP food intake in children with FAPD.
• Implementing an LFD can lead to modest improvements in micronutrient intake and overall diet quality in this pediatric population.
• Adherence to the LFD may further enhance nutritional benefits, supporting its role in managing pediatric FAPD.