This Sunday we are celebrating our fabulous fathers and grandfathers, with many festivities in the works.
However, for some of us (that would be, the 1.3 BILLION people worldwide affected by IBS type symptoms!) brunches, lunches and other food centered occasions can bring about feels of anxiety and panic. These mealtimes can be a FODMAPPERs nightmare, trying to navigate a day of potentially lethal ingredients.
Well fear not, below are six great tips, tricks and pieces of advise that you can use this weekend, which will allow you to enjoy the celebration without the distraction of FODMAP pitfalls.
1. If dining out, peruse the menu ahead of time. Most cafes and restaurants have menu information available online, which you can scan before arrival. Not only does this prevent you from the panic you may feel when trying to scan a menu for a FODMAP Friendly option on the spot, but it means that you can spend more time focusing on enjoying the celebrations whilst you are dining!
2. Suggest a celebration at home. This means you can prepare some delicious food from scratch, with a selection of low FODMAP ingredients that you are comfortable eating. Make sure you stock up on our range of Certified products to make life easier.
3. Pace yourself and remember your individual thresholds. When surrounded by plates of higher FODMAP options with little alternative, it can be tempting to throw the towel in and gorge on foods not usually included in the diet. In these instances, try to remember that you can still pick and choose the lower FODMAP options, taking your individual thresholds into account. In most cases, the outcome is better if a more moderate approach is still taken!
4. Arm yourself with IBS relief remedies! Any seasoned IBS sufferer will have a collection of tried and tested go-tos, for when flare ups strike. Keep these on hand and make the most of digestive aids if they are required.
5. Use your resources! Make sure you have a copy of The FODMAP Friendly App on hand, so that you can double check ingredients as well as brands of products if possible, whether out and about or preparing a meal at home.
6. Keep some perspective. IBS type symptoms can be very frustrating to manage, particularly in social settings. Small slip ups are ok, and no one is perfect! Be kind to yourself, remember that your symptoms will subside, and use the setback as a learning experience for the future.
Tell us how you are celebrating a FODMAP Friendly Father’s Day this weekend, over on our Facebook page!
