Since the introduction of the low FODMAP diet as a successful treatment option for the management of functional bowel symptoms, the research evidence has focused on dietitian led education. This comprises comprehensive consultations with patients where extensive verbal information and written resources are provided, including a mechanistic explanation of why the diet works as well as how to incorporate the diet into each individual’s day to day life. This approach enables patients to fully understand the complexity of the diet to enable optimal adherence and symptom improvement. However, in clinical practice many patients are directed towards online information or leaflets in lieu of being referred for comprehensive advice from a dietitian experienced in low FODMAP education. There is no evidence to endorse this unstructured method despite its continued use.
Dietitian-led low FODMAP education is clinically efficacious in a one to one individual appointment setting and in group sessions, the latter providing a cost effective option. Long term outcomes of dietitian-led education indicate that it is clinically effective and does not limit long term nutritional adequacy. Research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of using alternative less time intensive and cheaper options such as using online information or leaflets only.