The low fodmap diet – this is where it all started. (Link below to see the list of foods you can and cant eat whilst on this diet).

https://www.ibsdiets.org/fodmap-diet/fodmap-food-list/

“A low fodmap diet consists of restriction of all fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPS). It is recommended for managing with irritable bowl syndrome (ibs) and can reduce digestive symptoms of ibs including bloating and flatulence.”

When my symptoms first started – (eczema all over my body, bad acne, bloating, chronic tummy pain, severe fatigue and so on) i went to the doctors, had my tests done, they then resorted to diet. I didn’t even think of there being something wrong with my diet, i ate clean and healthy most of the time!

After speaking to the doctors, i noticed that when i would eat my meals, this is when my symptoms would get worse! So maybe i was doing something wrong?

The doctors advised that i should try this diet called Low Fodmap. They told me to eliminate all the high fodmap foods (in red) and eat the low fodmap foods (in green).

Ive never found something so difficult, stressful and just absolutely ridiculous to try and follow! (If it works for you then GREAT! But it definitely didn’t for me!)

At this point, i started only cooking for myself, buying my own food, cooking separate to others, not going out for food, bringing my own food in tuppawear.

This is when my anxiety towards eating started. I would check the label on the back of absolutely everything in shops, i wouldn’t eat at friends houses, i definitely wouldn’t go out as the stress of ordering made me anxious and i just feared having a reaction.

My body dysmorphia got worse, i lacked self confidence and would cry all the time! My boyfriend at the time supported me the best he could although it wasn’t enough.

I went back to the doctors as it was not helping, had more tests done, nothing. It is so frustrating to look pregnant all the time, have the worst anxiety and the doctors tell you nothing is wrong 😦

I then got advised to cut out dairy and gluten – I’ve still cut out dairy and gluten to this day. Its much more manageable, still not easy, and its not stopped my symptoms. Don’t get me wrong, the symptoms aren’t as bad, but its still daily.

So, diet, is it really the problem in my case? Im not sure, it might be a factor towards the issue but i don’t think its the main cause.