Are Tomatoes High FODMAP?
No, tomatoes are not considered a high FODMAP food and are generally well-tolerated by individuals with IBS. Fresh tomatoes are classified as low FODMAP and can be safely consumed during all phases of the low FODMAP diet, including the strict elimination phase.
FODMAP Classification of Tomatoes
Fresh tomatoes are low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, making them suitable for IBS patients following a low FODMAP diet 1, 2, 3
Tomatoes lack the problematic short-chain fermentable carbohydrates that increase small intestinal water volume and colonic gas production, which are the primary mechanisms by which FODMAPs trigger gastrointestinal symptoms in those with visceral hypersensitivity 4
Practical Dietary Implementation
Tomatoes can be included freely during the restriction phase (4-6 weeks) of the low FODMAP diet without concern for triggering symptoms related to FODMAP content 2, 3
Fresh tomatoes are among the vegetables that do not need to be restricted when implementing traditional first-line dietary advice for IBS, which includes regular meal patterns, adequate hydration, and limiting fatty/spicy foods 4, 1
Unlike high FODMAP vegetables such as onions and garlic, which must be avoided during the elimination phase, tomatoes can serve as a safe vegetable option for adding flavor and nutrition to meals 4, 3
Important Caveats
While tomatoes are low FODMAP, tomato-based products may contain added high FODMAP ingredients such as onion or garlic powder, which are common culprit foods containing fructans 3
Some individuals with IBS may experience symptoms from tomatoes due to mechanisms unrelated to FODMAPs, such as acidity or individual food sensitivities, but this is not related to their FODMAP content 4
The low FODMAP diet should be implemented as second-line therapy under supervision of a registered dietitian with gastrointestinal expertise, after first-line traditional dietary advice has failed to provide adequate symptom relief 4, 2, 3