The Role of FODMAPs in Sports Nutrition: A Narrative Review and Clinical Implications

TL;DR

This review explores how reducing FODMAPs in athletes' diets can help prevent gut issues during exercise, but more research is needed on long-term effects.

Contribution

This paper provides a narrative review of FODMAPs' role in sports nutrition and suggests individualized short-term dietary strategies for athletes.

Findings

FODMAP consumption increases the risk of intestinal symptoms during physical activity.

Short-term FODMAP restriction before and during exercise reduces symptom severity in most studies.

Long-term effects of low-FODMAP diets on athlete health and gut microbiota remain understudied.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Intense physical activity can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, negatively impacting athletic performance. A low-FODMAP diet has the potential to reduce these symptoms and is increasingly being considered by physically active individuals. The aim of this review is to present the current knowledge on the importance of FODMAPs in sports nutrition. Methods: A narrative review was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, covering publications published up to October 2025. Original studies, reviews, and meta-analyses addressing the relationship between FODMAP intake and gastrointestinal symptoms during physical activity were included. Selected articles were assessed for specific criteria, and the results were grouped thematically to present the current state of knowledge. Results: FODMAP consumption increases the risk of intestinal symptoms. Short-term FODMAP restriction, especially before and during exercise, reduced the severity of symptoms in most of the analyzed studies. Data on the long-term effects of a low FODMAP diet on the health, nutrition, and gut microbiota of athletes remain limited. Conclusions: A strategy of short-term FODMAP restriction in athletes’ diets shows potential for reducing gastrointestinal symptoms. An optimal approach requires individualization. Further research is needed to monitor potential side effects and long-term outcomes.