Hi there, the article references IBD, not IBS, as you mention at the end of your note.

Of note, aloe vera GEL/aloe vera JUICE (both use only the inner gel-like part) does not produce the side effects listed in this article- if you follow your resource you can see this. Aloe vera LATEX (the outer skin) is almost never recommended unless in cases of severe constipation since it is a cathartic laxative. Aloe vera GEL/JUICE, however, has an extremely low side effect profile, is inexpensive, and has shown anti-inflammatory effects in both animal and human clinical trials (see one of many studies below). I would agree that for IBS/SIBO this would not be my go-to, however, it can have a very beneficial effect on conditions with more inflammation such as IBD, ulcers, or gastritis.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2036.2004.01902.x

Hi Diana, I was a little confused by your comment. Your initial statement seemed to contradict the one made towards the end. Our article is based upon evidence-based research. The Dr. Bernstein Diet goes against the recommendations of major medical organizations, including the American Medical Association, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American Diabetes Association, and the American Heart Association. It also conflicts with recommendations set by the U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. It is also not exactly the same as popularized keto, so again , I am not sure what you were saying here. We stick with evidence based information.

Thank you, Lexie. I was shocked to see keto/low carb dissed here. This way of eating is the salvation for diabetics! Richard K. Bernstein, MD, proved it using a glucometer on himself, and millions of us have furthered his proof. Long time low carb diabetic here (25 years) but found myself with IBS-D after a tetanus shot six years ago. Getting worse; glad I found the FODMAP concept this year. This helps, whereas low carb/keto hasn’t, for me. Low-carb and keto folks likely dismiss FODMAP as just another fad, too. Enough!

The article was written on the best science available at the time. It was not intended as a personalized nutrition strategy for any one individual. That should only be undertaken with a registered dietitian. It’s great that you personally found an approach that works for you, however that should not be assumed to work for all. I did write a longer piece about the ketogenic diet and IBS, along with Vanessa Cobarrubia (https://www.fodmapeveryday.com/keto-diet-ibs-a-closer-look/), that you might wish to review for more detail on this topic.

As you will see, both articles are focused on the ketogenic as related to IBS, and not athletes and fat for fuel or epilepsy, as those are different topics than IBS and gut health. In terms of epilepsy research, the ketogenic diet and its use in children and adolescents with intractable epilepsy indeed has been nothing short lifesaving in many cases. However, epilepsy and IBS are not interchangeable, thus the scientific approach to treating each should not be either. In regard to a “one size doesn’t fit all” approach, I certainly agree with you. Here is the last line of the longer keto article: “NOTE: As always, work with your doctor and/or dietitian to develop a customized treatment plan (diet, lifestyle, medication) that works best for you. You are unique.” Thanks for your feedback.

Hi Krista, whenever we can find relief, it IS a relief, however, what we do here at FODMAP Everyday® is rely on clinical studies and evidence-based research. Also, once has to take into consideration long term effects, which are just as important. What has worked for you has not been proven to work for many, hence it is not something we would recommend to our community. There is a reason why it has not. And, it is ironic that we are talking about celery, which has a very small low FODMAP serving size. We understand that you have your opinion, but since we focus on the low FODMAP diet here, this does not fall within our parameters for recommendation from any angle.

I can only agree with you, from my own experience

Hi Sue, we have found that many folks know the brand Metamucil and are thrilled to learn that they can incorporate it into their low FODMAP diet. Artificial flavors are low FODMAP, too.