Julie's posts
Madeira cake low fodmap gluten free
I haven’t posted anything to my blog for a long time but this recipe is perfect for a bank holiday weekend. This is a lovely cake for a treat. Its texture improves after a couple of days in a cake …
Continue ReadingOatmeal and ginger crusted salmon -low fodmap
I have not posted anything on my blog for some time but hopefully I will be on here more often from now. This may surprise you considering we have all been locked in for 3 months but I have been …
Continue ReadingStaffordshire Oatcakes with a vegan filling

So, for those people following the low FODMAP UK method kidney beans are now allowed and I would advise you to use tinned and rinse them well prior to using them. Beans are an excellent source of iron and fibre …
Continue ReadingVegan nut roast Low FODMAP
We are nearly in Veganuary and what could me more perfect than a vegan nut roast? Some people miss meaty flavours when they venture into meat free eating and this roast is stuffed full of umami flavours meaning you won’t …
Continue ReadingPecan and maple syrup marzipan – low fodmap
Ok, so why do we need a marzipan based on pecans? Well, marzipan is based on almonds and these are limited on the low fodmap diet, it also contains honey – it would be very difficult to know how much …
Continue ReadingChristmas Eve tear and share Low FODMAP
Christmas eve is a time to start the celebrations but it is often very busy wrapping presents, last minute gift purchasing and perishable food shopping. I would usually do my food shopping perhaps a day before Christmas Eve as the …
Continue ReadingLow FODMAP sausage rolls
Christmas party food is important for people who need to follow a free from diet. Here is a popular choice for most parties and the pastry worked out really well and was fairly easy to make. Ingredients 200g Plain flour …
Continue ReadingOyster mushroom soup low FODMAP

Mushroom soup is really very tasty and oyster mushrooms are the only suitable mushrooms for the low FODMAP diet. I love mushrooms and I went on a foraging course to help identify them but I haven’t picked any as yet …
Continue ReadingChestnut pies – an alternative to mince pies (low FODMAP)

Mince pies are quintessentially Christmas. Normally mince pies have a large amount of dried fruit which can cause problems for people with fructose malabsorption if enough are eaten, plus they are made from pastry, a source of fructans. This is …
Continue ReadingChestnut and herb stuffing

Is it too soon to be thinking of Christmas? It’s hardly past Halloween and Bonfire night but if you are like me and make your food for Christmas then perhaps we do need to start. I love chestnuts, and they …
Continue ReadingPumpkin gnocchi and sage butter

I have been thinking about Halloween recipes this weekend – this is likely to be the last one I post this year. I adore gnocchi but I do find it very filling. It is a dish for a day where …
Continue ReadingThe Perfect Watercress Soup – low FODMAP

Watercress soup is sublime and tradition in our household means that we have it as a starter every Christmas. I have considered the fact that we can’t use onion – the complete taste profile onion gives to the dish – …
Continue ReadingVegan ‘chicken’ and pumpkin couscous – low fodmap

An autumn favourite is pumpkin and numerous varieties can be found. When I was young pumpkin in the UK was unheard of – in fact we used to make Halloween lanterns with a swede! That certainly was a recipe for …
Continue ReadingAutumn jacket potatoes

It’s Autumn, I love this time of year but as the dark nights role in thoughts of wholesome, warm filling meals arrive. What could be more sustaining than a jacket potato for people following the low fodmap diet? This is …
Continue ReadingOyster Mushrooms – A Umami Low Fodmap Option for IBS

It is autumn and the evenings are becoming darker. It is the season for mushrooms and many people really miss mushrooms when following the low fodmap diet. But if you are following the Kings College Low FODMAP diet oyster mushrooms …
Continue ReadingA nice cup of tea

There is nothing more quintessentially English than a nice cup of tea. We debate the nuances of how to make it properly – milk before the tea or after, warm the pot before adding the hot water and tea or …
Continue ReadingOrecchiette con Cima de rape – Low FODMAP

This recipe was in a newspaper supplement but wasn’t really Low FODMAP friendly so I decided to give it an update and make it suitable for those with food intolerances. It is a traditional Puglian recipe using broccoli tops (Cima …
Continue ReadingLemon – Low FODMAP

http://www.compoundchem.com The words of the song the Lemon Tree, the words are undeniable “Lemon tree very pretty, and the lemon flower is sweet, but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.” Many people with gastro-oesophageal reflux (GORD) …
Continue ReadingSpinach, a superfood – fable, fact or just wartime propaganda?

If I had a pound every time a patient says spinach is high in iron in the clinic, I reckon I would be relatively wealthy. Also, if I knew what I was about to find out about this story whilst …
Continue ReadingBroccoli

Broccoli is a newer addition to the low fodmap family – although particular attention needs to be made concerning which parts are low fodmap. Growing conditions and plant storage of FODMAPs affects the fodmap content of foods. A good example …
Continue ReadingThe Aubergine

Aubergines have to be my favourite vegetable. I love that they marry well with other vegetables such as tomato and potato. They have a velvety texture and a creamy taste and more than earn their title as the vegetarian steak. …
Continue ReadingAn alternative low fodmap Christmas cake

If you have fructose malabsorption and/or fructans malabsorption and you are really missing a Christmas celebration cake – look no further. Christmas cake is exceptional – like the Wedding cake, but in recent years the heavy fruit cake has gone …
Continue ReadingMeat free Sausages – Low fodmap

This recipe was devised as a result of trying to find low fodmap meat-free sausages and failing to find a suitable option easily. They are very tasty – although they do not taste the same as standard sausages – perhaps …
Continue ReadingChocolate & IBS – what’s the deal?

Chocolate is a complex food for people with IBS, as it contains more than one ingredient that could make IBS symptoms worse – high-fat content, lactose in milk chocolate and caffeine. Yet it is allowed in the low fodmap diet …
Continue Reading?Bonfire bangers and mash low fodmap

Gravy, mmm, this is what most low fodmapers miss the most. I have found a ready-made beef stock from Atkins & Potts https://www.atkinsandpotts.co.uk/products/stocks-gravies/17-stocks-and-gravies/P2724-beef-stock it does contain lemon juice concentrate, but as the stock ingredients consist of only 5% of the …
Continue Reading?Maple + ginger Halloween cupcakes ?

OK – what has grandma got on her scary doily-covered table for you? Yes, these small cupcakes are a great low fodmap treat for Halloween! Just don’t scare your gut by eating too many Ingredients 175g gluten-free self-raising flour 50g …
Continue ReadingDo you have a problem with lactose?

The following script is based on an article I wrote for the Allergy & Free From show magazine last year. With some updates! What is lactose? Lactose is a sugar, for this sugar to be used by us, the walls …
Continue ReadingIBS digestive distress – is there a problem with bread?

Many people with IBS state that bread is a real issue in provoking symptoms. Is this true? What is it about bread that is the problem? This post aims to discuss the provocateurs of digestive distress in IBS (Irritable Bowel …
Continue ReadingIs ginger useful for treating IBS?

http://www.compoundchem.com/2014/11/27/ginger/ The next ingredient to be reviewed is ginger. Ginger has many studies into it’s use to treat vomiting in pregnancy and to treat nausea during treatments such as chemotherapy or reducing sickness after surgery. Ginger has a long history …
Continue ReadingChicken goujons – low fodmap

What are goujons? They are small chicken fillets that are coated in breadcrumbs. They are fairly easy to make using gluten free breadcrumbs but it is important to use the correct ones for the low fodmap diet. Clearspring rice crumbs …
Continue ReadingItalian meatballs with Fodmapped sauce – a review.

I have purchased some Fodmapped sauces and soups to try, so I thought I would give you the low down. I bought them through the IBS Network website so that they would benefit from the purchase – were you aware …
Continue ReadingPeppermint and IBS

Peppermint has a history of being used as a treatment for IBS. It is even used as a medication in a capsule that ensures it reaches the digestive tract where it is most useful. Peppermint, or more precisely menthol, relaxes …
Continue ReadingTurmeric – medical jack-of-all trades, or just great curry ingredient?

http://www.compoundchem.com/ Turmeric is a wonderful ingredient to add to a curry – it also has been exalted as a wonder food with lot’s of great benefits for health. Some of the more pervasive anecdotes with regards to turmerics ‘heath benefits’ …
Continue ReadingCelebration trifle – low fodmap

It’s New Years eve and if you want a celebration dessert that can help people following a low fodmap diet but is also tasty for all your New Years Day party guests, this is ideal – it is made with …
Continue ReadingMini chocolate orange panettone – low fodmap

This is an ideal Christmas recipe for low fodmappers who want to have a festive bread without marzipan and probably one of the only bread recipes that I have managed to produce that has risen well! It is based on …
Continue ReadingCoffee, caffeine and the complexities of digestion.

Struggling with sleep? Constantly wired? Have to dash to the toilet immediately after drinking your morning brew? It’s possible that coffee is causing these symptoms. The caffeine contained in coffee is a gastrointestinal stimulant, this means caffeine increases the contractions …
Continue ReadingVegan Pate – Christmas starter Low Fodmap

This is a spiced vegan pate starter – a really nice way to begin Christmas lunch. It is based Moroccan themed flavours and has lots of seasonal flavours to remind you of the traditional Christmas. Being very easy to make …
Continue ReadingChestnut, carrot & celeriac soup – low fodmap Christmas recipes

Having guests around for Christmas lunch and wondering what to serve for a starter? This recipe is a tasty soup, suitable for vegan low fodmappers and has Christmas flavours with mixed spice. I have been using my copy of the …
Continue ReadingChocolate coated peppermint snow peaks – low fodmap Christmas recipes

Just the ticket for giving out to friends who come caroling. Ingredients 4 egg whites 200g castor sugar Pinch of cream of tartar 400g of mint dark chocolate 3-4 drops of peppermint flavouring. Method Add the egg whites to a …
Continue ReadingIBS – dietary advice to calm your gut – book
Our new book IBS dietary advice to calm your gut was published last week. We wrote the book to provide information about diet and living well with IBS. [Look at talkhealth‘s freebies page with a chance to win a copy …
Continue ReadingJeweled Koshari – low fodmap

Koshari is a dish served in Egypt and usually has plenty of fried onions on the top and pulses mixed in the rice/pasta blend and added as a topping. Obviously the onion is a no-go for low fodmap diets, but …
Continue ReadingSpaghetti Cabonara -low fodmap

Whilst reading the Guardian newspaper recipe booklet this weekend I decided to have a go at one of the recipes in the pasta special and reduce the parmesan and low fodmap modify it. OK – this recipe scared me, adding …
Continue ReadingRemember, remember the fifth of November – Low fodmap parkin.

Parkin is a rich spiced cake from Yorkshire or Lancashire that is consumed during bonfire night. Are you unsure of what Bonfire night is? It is a festival in the UK marking the failure of a plot to blow up …
Continue ReadingHow to make an authentic low fodmap curry – vegetarian

OK – so, how on earth do you make an authentic curry without an onion base? Masala is a mix of spices that are first fried in oil to release the flavour and then finely chopped onion and garlic is …
Continue ReadingChicken and pesto pasta – low fodmap

I am trying again with Kale, using kale is a way of getting more cruciferous brassica vegetables into a the low fodmap diet. Why should that be important? These vegetables contain sulphur compounds such as glucosinolates, compounds that have been …
Continue ReadingMac and cheese – low fodmap

OK, so it really has an Autumnal feel today perhaps a comforting meal is required and macaroni and cheese is definitely one to make. This is a low fodmap recipe made with lactose free milk and cheese suitable for a …
Continue ReadingPuff pastry topped with creamy courgette and walnut salad – Low Fodmap

Autumn days are really setting in now and we are entering my favourite time of year with lots of squashes and root vegetables to roast – great for sensitive digestive tracts. As we are entering the cooler days of the …
Continue ReadingLamb Kofta on gluten free flat bread – low fodmap

I am at the moment experimenting with Greek and Middle Eastern dishes and modifying them to suit a low fodmap diet. I was surprised how well these flat breads turned out – although they are better when served slightly warmed. …
Continue ReadingTzatziki – low fodmap

Over 2000 years ago Socrates stated “All disease begins in the gut”. Clearly not – but most symptoms of IBS start in the gut and having a dip made with lactose free Greek yoghurt will help keep it calm and …
Continue ReadingLime chicken salad – low fodmap

I am on Holiday this week and I have not picked a good one for the weather unfortunately. I decided to being some colour into my evening meal and brighten my day. So here it is a nice crunchy salad. …
Continue ReadingZucchine (courgette) Pizza gluten free low lactose

Just the job for using up all those extra glut of courgettes that you have in the garden! Courgettes are great for the low fodmap diet, this recipe used yellow courgettes but green ones will work just as well so …
Continue ReadingSausage and watercress conchiglie pasta – gluten free and low fodmap

This dish is really easy to make and can be incorporated into your low fodmap recipes for working week nights, plus you don’t need to use fresh herbs – dried are just as good but maybe use a little less …
Continue ReadingAubergine stuffed with lamb and pine nuts

This recipe is another Ottolenghi recipe which I have modified to make it low fodmap and is quite simply delicious the original version can be found in his Jerusalem recipe book. It was very easy to modify really- just don’t …
Continue Readinglactose free labneh dip – low fodmap

What is labneh? It is a middle eastern strained yoghurt that removes some of the whey component – some individuals can tolerate yoghurt when they have lactose intolerance however it is unclear if the draining of the whey will concentrate …
Continue ReadingPork loin with maple and mustard sauce – low fodmap

This is a great recipe for dinner parties with friends and is really easy to do! No one will guess that you are following a low fodmap diet at all. Often on the low fodmap diet people have a very …
Continue ReadingFennel leaf and mint cream cheese dressing – low Fodmap

Just the ticket to dress thinly sliced cucumber for a fresh salad or sandwich filler. The cream cheese is lactose free but not cows milk protein free. If you have a small amount (less than two tablespoons) you could use …
Continue ReadingPecan and radish salad with strawberry ketchup – low fodmap

I had to use the rest of the radish I bought and thought I would make a bright salad for this very sunny day. Balsamic vinegar enhances the flavour of strawberry and when combined with radish shoots and sliced radish …
Continue ReadingChive salad – for low fodmapers missing onion.

This salad has onion flavour as it’s base and uses chives to achieve this. It can be made without the chive flowers but if you can get them they do make a really pretty addition to this dish. I am …
Continue ReadingIs juicing or liquid meal replacements good for IBS?
There is a plethora of information on the internet on how to improve IBS or even how to ‘cure’ IBS (if you see the word ‘cure’ you should be very skeptical – we have no cure unfortunately at this moment …
Continue ReadingHot radish salad

Do you want a side salad with some heat but avoiding chilli and spices? Then radish is your choice. Here I have used three coloured radish but this works just as well with the basic red variety that is common …
Continue ReadingElderflower and blueberry pavlova – low fodmap low lactose

Imagine you are going to a party and have no time to prepare a dessert. If you have made the elderflower cordial recipe then you can whip up this beautiful dessert to take to a summer party and impress your …
Continue ReadingElderflower Cordial

On a walk this afternoon I gathered a handful of elderflowers. This recipe is based on a recipe from the book Hedgerow Cookbook. The elder is a wonderful bush although it generally doesn’t look that way when you find one. …
Continue ReadingLebanese grilled lamb with lactose free yoghurt

I adore Ottolenghi recipes but he does use lots of fodmaps in them so I was very surprised to find a Lebanese seven spice rub in Marks and Spencer that is low fodmap and just the right spice mix for …
Continue ReadingPasty

I can’t claim that these are the Cornish variety but they are tasty and the celeriac gives a nice celery flavour to them. The pasty is a portable treat that can be taken on any picnic and these are low …
Continue ReadingCourgette and walnut salad – low fodmap

Raw courgette adds another dimension to this dish it is crunchy and refreshing. This dish uses the yellow variety but is just as good with the green courgette. Ingredients 2 yellow courgettes 1 handful of walnuts 1 handful of pumpkin …
Continue ReadingPeppered leaf salad with prosciutto and berries – low fodmap

On the theme of salads again here is a lovely refreshing peppery salad. Watercress is suitable for the low fodmap diet according to the Monash App and I love it’s hot taste. I also added a few mint tips and …
Continue ReadingLactose free rice pudding topped with blueberry brittle

Rice pudding is a real comfort food and often advised for people who need to have nutrition support for weight loss as it is easy to eat and tastes great. If you have lactose intolerance however, this might be a …
Continue ReadingGarlic – the fodmaper’s enemy?

Garlic contains fructans (an oligosaccharide) and is for some people a potent cause of symptoms in IBS. It is a shame that it does as it is found in many ready meals and processed foods so can be a challenging …
Continue ReadingQuinoa and carrot salad with a herb dressing – low fodmap

This is a salad that is vibrant and although rainbow carrots have been used these are not essential to the dish, it can be made cheaply with plain orange carrots, if needed. The dressing is fresh and adds another dimension …
Continue ReadingChicken and grape salad – low fodmap

This is a quick light lunch for a sunny day. This is a mix of salad leaves, herbs and chicken with grapes. Low fodmap and yummy! ingredients 1 Carrot 1 roasted chicken thigh 80g grapes Mixed salad leaves 2 Radish …
Continue ReadingMaple and muscat grape no bake cheesecake – Low fodmap

Love cheesecake and having problems with lactose intolerance? Then look no further – this recipe is for you! It is a simple recipe and other grape varieties can be used – but for a special dinner party then these muscat …
Continue ReadingMoroccan roasted vegetables

I love roasted vegetables and these are no exception. This is a Moroccan themed dish using Fodify low fodmap spice mix (purchased) to flavour the gluten free couscous (corn based.) Ingredients 200g of carrots 1 small bag of mini aubergines …
Continue ReadingWelsh Rarebit – low fodmap

Welsh rarebit is one of those lunch or supper dishes that is easy to do and as with all cheese dishes, really hits the taste buds to satisfy! How do we make this low fodmap? With a slice of gluten …
Continue ReadingTurmeric roasted parsnips with fennel leaves – low fodmap.

This recipe is based on mini parsnips – they do taste great roasted, even the well done ends are crisp and add a flavour to the dish. Something to pick up the mood on a wet damp bank holiday weekend. …
Continue ReadingChicken, chard and pine nut conchiglie pasta – low fodmap

I adore chard – it is so pretty and very tasty. I have not been able to source a regular supply of it, perhaps because it may be a seasonal leaf. I was surprised and very pleased to find it …
Continue ReadingEaster chocolate orange cake treat – low fodmap

Ingredients Cake 150g self raising gluten free flour 150g margarine 150g golden castor sugar Grated rind of 1 orange Juice of half an orange 2 eggs 15g cocoa powder (check gluten free if needed) 1 teaspoon of gluten free baking …
Continue ReadingSalad bowl – low fodmap

The weather this weekend is fabulous for April. We are famous in the UK for discussing the weather – not surprisingly when it can change so frequently. Days when it is unexpectedly fine are few and far between. It makes …
Continue ReadingTurkey in a mustard and pepper sauce

This is a recipe to make for dinner parties or special occasions it has lots of flavour and doesn’t require any stock as the vegetables and mustard provide the flavour in abundance. Most people with IBS will be fine having …
Continue ReadingCod and celeriac risotto

Ingredients 200g Cod 100g ham 200g celeriac 1 glass of wine 10g thyme 2 bay leaves 1 tablespoon of oil 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida 200ml of lactose free milk 2 teaspoons of cream (lactose free if needed) Method Add the cod …
Continue ReadingPancake recipe for Shrove Tuesday

Here is a savoury choice instead of the sweet varieties of pancake often eaten on Shrove Tuesday. It is a Moroccan themed meal. Ingredients Pancake batter 2 large eggs 150g of plain gluten free flour mix 75g of maize flour …
Continue ReadingLactose free soft cheese
This recipe was adapted from Gerard Baker’s ‘How to make soft Cheese’ recipe for Halloumi. Unfortunately I would not describe it as halloumi it is more like a standard soft cheese – but lactose free. It is very easy to …
Continue ReadingWilted spinach with pine nuts and sultanas

I love spinach it has a really vibrant colour when just wilted and combined with pine nuts a small amount of kale (purple) and sultanas it makes a really great low fodmap vegetable dish. Ingredients 200g bag of spinach 40g …
Continue ReadingTri Colori mini pizza’s – made with verdi, bianca and rosso pesto! Low Fodmap

It was national pizza day last week and I decided to focus on the three colours of the Italian flag and make three colours of pesto and use small gluten free pizza bases – one is just enough for a …
Continue ReadingTuna Nicoise, low fodmap – naturally

I love Tuna Nicoise salad, the above recipe is using fresh tuna – but canned tuna is just as tasty for this dish and it is a good lunchtime alternative to the staple gluten free sandwiches. Ingredients 400g of tinned …
Continue ReadingFeta, orange and pine nut salad

It’s time to get back to fresh ingredients, I always crave fresh salad after the Christmas excess. This salad is a tasty low Fodmap salad that will fill you up for lunch, it also contains one of your fruit portions. …
Continue ReadingIt’s Seville Orange Season
Seville oranges are oranges that are in season around January and are a taste experience that has both sweet and bitter overtones. They are not oranges for eating but do make an excellent marmalade and this is what most people …
Continue ReadingLemon drizzle spiced bundt Christmas cakes – low fodmap

When baking with gluten free flour the recipes are improved by a ‘drizzle’- to add moisture to the cake. Plus, for this special time of year, I have used best butter! Yes – B…U…T…T…E…R you heard that right . Consumed …
Continue ReadingHow to survive the holiday season without too many gut problems

The holiday season means many different things to different people, it is supposed to be a period of joy but often it really doesn’t live up to all those expectations that we often have. The media portray images of idealistic …
Continue ReadingChicken liver and rosemary stuffing – low fodmap Christmas recipes

Sage and onion stuffing is a classic accompaniment to Christmas dinner, however for people following a low fodmap diet this is not an option because it does contain lots of onion. Perhaps this recipe might be a good alternative and …
Continue ReadingChristmas bread & butter pudding low fodmap

Yes it’s still November and thoughts are turning to Christmas. I apologize now for posting this recipe but you do need to be planning and perhaps trialing recipes before the big day so here is one for consideration. Bread and …
Continue ReadingVegetable tart

This vegetable tart was made using frozen gluten free pastry bought at the Allergy & Free From Show over the weekend. It is a quick and tasty recipe for a weekday evening. Serve with some green salad.I used coloured carrots …
Continue ReadingVegetable tart

This vegetable tart was made using frozen gluten free pastry bought at the Allergy & Free From Show over the weekend. It is a quick and tasty recipe for a weekday evening. Serve with some green salad.I used coloured carrots …
Continue ReadingHot roasted vegetables

I adore roasted vegetables – I have said this before but I can’t get enough of them at the moment. These choices are low fodmap and packed with fibre, really filling and comforting. The spice mix I chose to use …
Continue ReadingHot roasted vegetables

I adore roasted vegetables – I have said this before but I can’t get enough of them at the moment. These choices are low fodmap and packed with fibre, really filling and comforting. The spice mix I chose to use …
Continue ReadingPumpkin and chocolate tea loaf

Ingredients 175g of roasted pumpkin 175 muscovado sugar 175g caster sugar 125g of low fat margarine 3 eggs 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 300g plain gluten free flour 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 1 tablespoon of baking powder (use gluten free …
Continue ReadingPumpkin and chocolate tea loaf

Ingredients 175g of roasted pumpkin 175 muscovado sugar 175g caster sugar 125g of low fat margarine 3 eggs 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 300g plain gluten free flour 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 1 tablespoon of baking powder (use gluten free …
Continue ReadingThai green chicken curry – scarily low fodmap!

It’s now October – time for the nights to draw in and Halloween is just around the corner. Have you time to cook some dark dishes for All Hallows’ Eve? Would you like a story before we begin out tasty …
Continue ReadingThai green chicken curry – scarily low fodmap!

It’s now October – time for the nights to draw in and Halloween is just around the corner. Have you time to cook some dark dishes for All Hallows’ Eve? Would you like a story before we begin out tasty …
Continue ReadingPumpkin chicken and pesto pasta

It is my favourite time of year and I do love roasted vegetables. Here is a dish that provides some comfort on cold nights and left overs can be warmed up the next day for lunch. Ingredients 75g of garlic …
Continue ReadingPumpkin chicken and pesto pasta

It is my favourite time of year and I do love roasted vegetables. Here is a dish that provides some comfort on cold nights and left overs can be warmed up the next day for lunch. Ingredients 75g of garlic …
Continue ReadingTomato, pepper and spaghetti squash soup
This is a lovely flavoured soup and has a very vibrant colour. A great winter soup to warm you up on cold days! Ingredients 800g of plum tomatoes 1 large spaghetti squash 400g tin of roasted red pepper 1 teaspoon …
Continue ReadingLamb wrapped in kale

Kale is tough, stringy and overtly pretentious, but it looks really great in photographs – perhaps the reason most ‘wellness’ bloggers overstate it’s usefulness. The real deal with kale is however it is low fodmap and really great for making …
Continue ReadingMaple Syrup

The Chemistry of maple syrup A great infographic from compound chemistry about maple syrup http://www.compoundchem.com Maple syrup is a sweet tree sap that is high in sucrose and low in other sugars, so it is suitable for the low fodmap …
Continue ReadingCeleriac Soup – low fodmap

I have half a celeriac left so as promised I have made a soup. This was very easy to do and is based on home made chicken stock and has a topping based on bacon, pecan and sunflower seeds. If …
Continue ReadingTuna, courgette and celeriac slaw, Low Fodmap

This recipe can be used as a sandwich filler, topping for jacket potatoes or a salad dressing. Lunch time ideas are very important when following a diet for food intolerances. Being prepared will prevent you needing to buy food that …
Continue ReadingMoroccan spiced corn couscous – low fodmap

Gluten free couscous made from corn! It is available in the Free From Sections of most large supermarkets and can be purchased online. This dish complements the Moroccan Salmon dish perfectly. The spices have been developed by two dietitians who …
Continue ReadingMoroccan Salmon – Low Fodmap

At the last Allergy & Free From show I purchased a range of three spice mixes from Fodify Foods, a company started by two dietitians – this is the first of the recipes I have tried for the Moroccan spice …
Continue ReadingPecan and raspberry Rocky Road – Low Fodmap

Rocky road is so easy to make and a great looking snack, but not for regular consumption as it is very calorific! This version is not too sweet as dark chocolate is used and the recipe is low fodmap. I …
Continue ReadingCoronation chicken – low fodmap

Coronation chicken is a favourite traditional dish in the UK and was first devised for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953 by the Cordon Bleu chef Rosemary Hume and Constance Spry. Rosemary was described by Constance as the ‘brains’ of …
Continue ReadingThe Moorland Wild Bilberry

In the month of August, the moors around Lancashire and Yorkshire provide an abundance of wimberry (more frequently called bilberry). These little berries are delicious but it takes some effort in gathering them, but it is certainly worth that effort. …
Continue ReadingCan you cook a cucumber? British cucumber week

The humble cucumber – stalwart of the afternoon tea finger sandwich has it’s own week, dedicated its summer fresh light green crispness. I find the cucumber a great salad vegetable and obviously it has been used in sandwiches for afternoon …
Continue ReadingIt’s Not ‘Just’ IBS campaign
Watch the presentation I gave for the IBS Network’s event The Patients Perspective, which is an effort to recognise that it’s not ‘just’ IBS. The petition is still open and you can sign it here if you wish https://www.change.org/p/all-political-parties-and-the-national-medical-director-recognise-it-s-not-just-irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs Its …
Continue ReadingPecan, lime and blueberry bircher low fodmap

What a glorious way to start the day with a yoghurt and oat based creamy breakfast – this recipe contains ground flaxseed to add lots of soluble fibre to your breakfast, a real treat for sluggish bowels! Skyr yoghurt contains …
Continue ReadingHerding cats – the challenges of probiotic research in IBS.
The dietary guidelines for IBS have been published. It has taken considerable work to produce these guidelines over the last 2 years at least and I was very pleased to be part of the development process with some very experienced …
Continue ReadingIt’s national picnic week – low fodmap picnic loaf

It’s national picnic week – although the weather isn’t that fantastic, but you can use the ideas from this event all through the summer. Here’s hoping for better weather. This recipe used a Warburton’s gluten free seeded sourdough artisan boule …
Continue ReadingThe ‘ravelled sleeve of care; how sleep affects IBS — The Sensitive Gut
See here for a great post from Dr Nick Read about how sleep disturbance affects IBS Sleep disturbance affects about a third of the American population, but is particularly common in patients diagnosed with IBS. As many as 74% of …
Continue ReadingQuinoa deli filler

This deli filler can be used in gluten free wraps, sandwiches and on the top of jacket potatoes and is a really quick easy recipe to make. It has a very fresh taste and is a great option for summer …
Continue ReadingSpring vegetable frittata – low fodmap
This frittata can be served as a light lunch with Jersey potatoes and is very pretty! Ingredients 5 eggs Half a sliced courgette 3 Pak Choi 30g of Parmesan cheese Chives Salt to taste Spray oil Method Wash the vegetables …
Continue ReadingAllergy + Free From Show talk on IBS
Are you going to the Allergy + Free From Show in July? Don’t forget to get your free tickets here http://bit.ly/1Pga0N5 and come and see my talk for the IBS Network on Diet and Constipation – is it just about …
Continue ReadingSmoked maple chicken – Low fodmap tray bake

One of my favourite recipes is an Ottolenghi dish based on chicken, cinnamon, onion, hazelnuts and honey – a middle eastern baked chicken recipe that I cook for special occasions. Obviously this is certainly not advisable for those people following …
Continue ReadingAsafoetida – what is it?
The link below is to a great little piece on asafoetida from BBC Good Food, if you are eager to learn more about this spice. I would advise anyone with coeliac disease to check to ensure it has not been …
Continue ReadingWhy your wind smells of roses – The Life of Poo book review
Well now, a book all about poo, why would anyone want to read this you may ask, surely the grim subject of poo is not something to read about – certainly not in public or polite company, I imagine you …
Continue ReadingWhich path will you choose?
You might consider that this post is not relevant to IBS, but everyone has to make some changes, when diagnosed with a medical condition. Changes perhaps try a new diet, a new medication or treatment, these naturally will require some …
Continue ReadingEasy like Sunday morning

Fancy a cooked breakfast occasionally and finding that your IBS symptoms are getting in the way? Then perhaps try this version, which is lower in fat than a ‘good old fry up’ and lower in fodmaps and therefore shouldn’t be …
Continue ReadingPickled vegetables – Low Fodmap

I am a real fan of Ottolenghi’s work, his recipes are delicious, but unfortunately they do contain lots of ingredients high in Fodmaps, so not that great for people with IBS. This weekend however was a bit different – a …
Continue ReadingChocolate, Courgette and Pecan Cake – Low Fodmap, gluten free

It’s Bank holiday weekend and as usual the weather is dismal, at least it’s not snowing like last week – time for some baking to lift the mood. How about a cake with some vegetables? Not something you fancy? It …
Continue ReadingCod with caper and olive sauce

Flavourings such as capers can be included on the Low Fodmap diet and are especially important when onion and garlic are not available in the range of flavours that can be used to develop dishes. Capers are a delicate taste …
Continue ReadingRhubarb cordial

Rhubarb is one of my favourite vegetables – yes you heard right – it is a vegetable, a stalk, but with a glorious colour and taste. It marries very well with ginger. Rhubarb has an anecdotal use as a laxative …
Continue ReadingGinger, pumpkin and rice noodles Low Fodmap

This tasty recipe can be served with fish or chicken but it can be used as a lunch meal – hot or cold by itself, if you don’t eat meat. The noodles were ginger and pumpkin rice noodles – gluten …
Continue ReadingMinted Boston runner beans

What on earth are Boston beans? I am, as many of you know, a down to earth Lancashire gal and labelling food with a new name to boost sales really doesn’t go down too well with me. Not impressed, however …
Continue ReadingHow does the free from toad get in the hole?

It’s March and it is snowing today! I have been out and I did get soaked to the skin – urgh! It is not nice snow – more the sloppy sort that doesn’t stick around long enough to freeze properly. …
Continue ReadingSpaghetti Bolognese – Low Fodmap

This is a family favourite, a classic dish that is the stalwart of many family meals so we should look at modifying it to make it suitable for ALL the family – even those with IBS. Whilst I would not …
Continue ReadingLasagna – low Fodmap

This is a recipe for lasagna – many people with IBS find that lasagna is a dish that results in symptoms but this version is low fodmap and not too high in fat levels so should be suitable for most …
Continue ReadingGrilled salmon with watercress sauce
Ingredients Salmon fillet x 2 1 bag of watercress (or rocket if following a low fodmap diet) 1/2 pint of lactose free milk 2 teaspoons of gluten free flour dissolved in a little water 1 oz margarine salt serve with …
Continue ReadingBaba Ganoush – Low Fodmap

This is a dip recipe that is suitable for the low fodmap diet, many people really struggle to find dips, particularly when many are made with onion or garlic as ingredients. Baba Ganoush is a middle eastern dish made from …
Continue ReadingWhy does asparagus make your wee smell? – Book Review
My husband has received this book as a Christmas present and I am afraid he has not had much chance to read it yet! I am a bibliophile and I also have a passion for graphic design and chemistry (I …
Continue ReadingKale and herb frittata with a cheese and pine nut topping – low fodmap

Wondering what to have for lunch? A frittata is a great option because not only can you eat it warm, it slices very well and can be eaten cold with a fresh green salad or even used as a sandwich …
Continue ReadingChristmas carols and canapes

It’s that time of year again – although it’s unusually warm outside this year! I purchased some gluten free frozen puff pastry and it is also Low Fodmap so here are some canapes to have with Christmas carols and shots …
Continue ReadingChapati and low fodmap curry – yum!

Chapati 150 g of gluten free plain flour 1 teaspoon of garlic infused oil 1/2 teaspoon of Xanthan gum 20 g of well chopped coriander Salt to taste Water to form a dough Method Weigh out the flour in a …
Continue ReadingCinnamon and lemon thyme roast chicken

It is the first cold snap of the season today and what better to warm the cockles than a roast chicken? This is a very simple roast, sprinkled with cinnamon and thyme. Ingredients 1/2 roast chicken 2 teaspoons cinnamon 5-6 …
Continue ReadingLemon mustard roasted winter vegetables and chicken

Roasted vegetables are one of my favourite winter recipes and I have cooked them before for this blog. It is Halloween tonight and what better to come home from trick or treating to a warm filling meal? I have never …
Continue ReadingCoriander carrots

My love of the carrot is growing – it really is a very versatile vegetable and the colour it provides to dishes adds a bit of warmth during the winter. Carrots partner very well with coriander and I have decided …
Continue ReadingStuffed Aubergine

Aubergines are my favourite vegetable and suitable for a Low Fodmap diet. Aubergines have been stated to be the vegetable to use if you wish to replace meat in a dish as they have a good texture and is satisfying …
Continue ReadingPumpkin soup – gluten free, wheat free, milk free, Low Fodmap

During the 1970’s when I was growing up – (you now have some idea of my age!) a pumpkin in the UK was a rare thing! We usually used swede to make our Halloween lanterns and cooking with pumpkins was …
Continue ReadingCheese Souffle low lactose, gluten and wheat free (low Fodmap)

This is my first attempt at a souffle – I have always been scared of making them due to listening to the difficulties people report in getting a rise and the consistency right. More of a challenge then to use …
Continue ReadingFrench toast for breakfast? – gluten free, low fodmap

This is a great Sunday morning treat and is very easy to prepare and to relax and enjoy! French toast is not sweet but when combined with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple or golden syrup the sweetness is …
Continue ReadingWhich probiotic could I try for IBS?

Photo Credit: Christiann MacAuley http://www.stickycomics.com A systematic review last year by Ford and his colleagues (2014) looked at probiotics and their effectiveness for IBS, the conclusion the authors made after applying some statistical analysis was that probiotics in general were …
Continue ReadingPotato and smoked mackerel soup – Low Fodmap

This is a really tasty soup that is made from basic ingredients and I hope you like it! Ingredients 800g of potato 1 carrot sprinkling of asafoetida 1 tablespoon of garlic infused oil 1 1/2 smoked mackerel 300 ml of …
Continue ReadingPurple sage & parsnip gnocchi

Today the weather has been grim again so I am stuck in the house being creative, or perhaps you should decide if I am! I adore parsnips, they are a tasty root vegetable that is not too hard on the …
Continue ReadingGluten free, low lactose rosemary and olive bread

The seat in the wood has intrigued me since I stumbled across it, looks home made, old – it has certainly seen its fare share of winters, I guess. It doesn’t overlook a repose worthy view and the valley’s features …
Continue ReadingPrunes – natures laxative.

“I hope my tongue in prune juice smothers, If I belittle dogs and mothers” Ogden Nash Ogden Nash was an American poet who suffered from crohn’s disease according to Wikipedia, his unfortunate demise was after a lactobacillus infection after eating …
Continue ReadingOur amazing gut microbiome – what is it and what happens when it goes awry?

Courtesy of MetaHit website Our microbiome is the name for the microbes that live on our body and some people think that the microbiome is our forgotten organ. Over the last few years our knowledge of what our microbiome is …
Continue ReadingThe most downloaded papers of 2014
Jules_GastroRD: It’s great to know clinical guidelines for dietary management of crohn’s disease in adults was one of the most downloaded papers in JHND! Originally posted on Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics Notes: The five most downloaded JHND papers …
Continue ReadingClinical efficacy and cost effectiveness of low FODMAP diet
Jules_GastroRD: Just started following JHND blog – see here for a link to a paper published on Group education for the Low FODMAP diet. Originally posted on Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics Notes: Clinical effectiveness and economic costs of …
Continue ReadingLow Fodmap Burgers

It has been some time since I have posted anything on this site – so long in fact the whole look of WordPress has changed. I have been working on guidelines and this has taken some time to complete so …
Continue ReadingLow Fodmap, Gluten free, low lactose pancakes

According to Wikipedia’s reference for Shrove Tuesday pancakes represent the sun in pagan mythology and eating them gave power, light and warmth of the sun. Pancakes were also a way of using up rich food before the fasting of lent …
Continue Reading2014 in review

The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2014 annual report for this blog. Here’s an excerpt: The concert hall at the Sydney Opera House holds 2,700 people. This blog was viewed about 18,000 times in 2014. If it were a …
Continue ReadingGluten free low lactose crumpets – better to make these at home!

This recipe is really easy to make and is gluten-free, low FODMAP and low lactose. These are really nice to enjoy toasted with a little free from spread (and jam if you wish) on a cold winters day after a …
Continue ReadingWheat free couscous stuffed peppers and Living well with IBS

Please watch and share ‘Living well with IBS’ (irritable bowel syndrome), a film made by Vicky Grant, a researcher at the University of Sheffield, and Gemma Thorpe, a professional filmmaker. Vicky has lived with IBS for over 30 years; here …
Continue ReadingGluten free, cow’s milk free rose pancakes for the breakfast diva!

Make these for a special occasion – gluten and cow’s milk free pancakes with an extra special flair for a birthday or wedding breakfast, of in fact you can make them plain for a tasty cooked alternative to kick start …
Continue ReadingMarrow – a tasty vegetarian meal

This is a really tasty recipe that can be quickly prepared for an evening meal. Ingredients 1 Marrow (or as in the picture above 1/2 a green and 1/2 a yellow marrow) 400g of new potatoes leave on the skin …
Continue ReadingMarrow – a tasty vegetarian meal

This is a really tasty recipe that can be quickly prepared for an evening meal. Ingredients 1 Marrow (or as in the picture above 1/2 a green and 1/2 a yellow marrow) 400g of new potatoes leave on the skin …
Continue ReadingLow FODMAP learning at the hospital, flapjack recipe.

I have just realised it was June when I last posted a recipe or anything else for that matter, How time rushes on! The above recipe was developed from a learning day at the hospital, everyone brought a low FODMAP …
Continue ReadingVegetable Pasta – gluten free, Low FODMAP

This recipe is a light roasted vegetable pasta sauce for use with gluten-free pasta. It is a great recipe for a warm summers day to eat alfresco. Ingredients 2 tablespoons of light tahini 1 tablespoon of garlic flavoured olive oil …
Continue ReadingLow FODMAP fishcakes

Ingredients 1) Tartar Sauce 50 g Gherkin 2 teaspoons of capers 3 tablespoons low-fat mayonnaise 5 g flat leaf parsley 2) 300 g white fish 650 g new potatoes 9 g fresh turmeric 2 teaspoons of cumin 1 tablespoon garlic …
Continue ReadingHot surf and turf wrap – Gluten and wheat free

Ingredients 2 Steaks 200 g of large prawns Wheat & Gluten free seeded wrap Gravy browning – a few drops 2 teaspoons cornflour Spray oil for frying 2 carrots Green salad leaves and 5 radishes for the salad bowl Method …
Continue ReadingHot surf and turf wrap – Gluten and wheat free

Ingredients 2 Steaks 200 g of large prawns Wheat & Gluten free seeded wrap Gravy browning – a few drops 2 teaspoons cornflour Spray oil for frying 2 carrots Green salad leaves and 5 radishes for the salad bowl Method …
Continue ReadingWho said you can’t have a fun free from Easter?

These are dairy free, wheat free, gluten-free easter nests just the job if you have to avoid dairy and want to have at least a small amount of chocolate. Ingredients 100g milk free chocolate 60g of gluten-free corn flakes 30g …
Continue ReadingSaffron Simnel Cake

Saffron Simnel Cake This recipe can also be downloaded from the IBS Network website http://www.theibsnetwork.org/what-we-offer/recipes/ It is a different take on the traditional simnel cake – without marzipan as this might provoke symptoms if you have IBS. A small slice …
Continue ReadingEaster Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns are an integral part of the Easter festivities – being on a wheat free diet shouldn’t exclude you from enjoying them. Ingredients 350g Brown Wheat/Gluten Free bread flour 2¼ Teaspoons xanthan gum 4½ Tablespoons castor sugar 1½ …
Continue ReadingAnother AGM and buckwheat slaw salad

I am preparing for another IBS Network AGM tomorrow, I can’t believe its three years since I attended the first one – we have achieved lots of things since then, the Self Care Plan and now free access to all, …
Continue ReadingWould Renaming Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Make a Real Difference?
Jules_GastroRD: This is a thought provoking piece about renaming IBS – we certainly need more IBS advocates would a name change increase advocacy? Originally posted on IBS IMPACT: Over the years, the symptom cluster currently known as irritable bowel syndrome …
Continue ReadingGluten Free, Low FODMAP, Low Fibre, tea scones

Afternoon tea is an English tradition that is now only consumed for a birthday or other celebrations and one of my favourites for a treat. It should contain sliced sandwiches, a scone with jam and small cakes. The following is …
Continue ReadingAdventures with Quinoa Flour

Due to a fortuitous reduction in the price of Quinoa flour at a local health shop I have purchased some to try baking with it, for you. I decided to bake some blondies – ginger ones, or may be I …
Continue ReadingHaddock Florentine with mustard roasted carrots (gluten free, low lactose, Low FODMAP)

It’s grim ‘up north’ today, the weather is grey and dismal at February’s threshold, still winter then? Few frosty mornings have occurred to evidence winters grasp on the landscape, just sodden foliage and waterlogged boggy moor – a relentless morass. …
Continue ReadingRectal Bleeding – A discussion about possible causes
Reblogged from Doctor Rennie’s Blog: One of the more common problems that bring patients into the doctor believe it or not is seeing blood in the toilet, on the stool or on the toilet paper after having a bowl …
Continue ReadingCommonly malabsorbed sugar causes obesity! What? – I’m afraid its just not that simple.
What is Fructose? Fructose is a hexose, a single unit sugar which occurs naturally in fruit and is a component of the disaccharide table sugar sucrose; it is also the building block of the long chain carbohydrate, fructans. This sugar …
Continue ReadingTomato free moussaka – low FODMAP

Moussaka is one of my favourite dishes, in my humble view it has to have cinnamon included – and lot’s of it. You might feel that adding a spice used in sweet dishes in the UK sounds strange, but it …
Continue ReadingTaking your IBS on holiday – too scary to contemplate? Or perhaps it might help!

January is a time when we start to think about holidays later in the year. However many people who suffer from IBS don’t travel as a consequence of having symptoms. Travelling can be a daunting prospect if you suffer from …
Continue ReadingGulp, Adventures on the Alimentary Canal – a review!

Gulp – Adventures on the Alimentary Canal, is the perfect book for my blog! This is a wonderful lighthearted trip down the digestive tract with lots of fun, facts and interesting comments. Mary writes genuinely funny chapters on diverse subjects …
Continue Reading2013 in review

In the great tradition leading up to New Year we look back at what has gone before and think about the times ahead. Last year I published the WordPress stats of my blog and I decided to repeat the process …
Continue ReadingGluten free bourbon cream biscuits

Ingredients 2 egg yolks 160 g of gluten-free plain flour 120 g margarine 180 g of golden castor sugar 2 heaped dessert spoons of gluten-free cocoa powder 90 g of plain chocolate – gluten-free 30 g of low-fat mascarpone Method …
Continue ReadingVegetable roast – Low FODMAP grains

Ingredients 25 g sunflower and pumpkin seeds 25 g red skinned peanuts 4 sprigs of fresh thyme 120 g of buckwheat 80 g oat fibre (gluten free) 1 large red pepper 3 carrots 125 mls water from cooked carrots 1 …
Continue ReadingToasted quinoa and buckwheat salad – Low FODMAP, gluten free, dairy free, vegan

It is a little more of a challenge to follow the Low FODMAP diet if you are vegan and rely on pulses in your diet – I am going to attempt to produce more recipes to facilitate a good variety …
Continue ReadingTo wish you a Merry Christmas – Gluten Free, low Lactose, chestnut and chocolate Yule log!

Buche de Noel – or chocolate log, this is the last treat recipe of the holidays – yule log, chocolate & chestnut flavour. It uses chestnut spread a really tasty alternative to cream. The sponge is a fat-free one – …
Continue ReadingGot Leftovers? A Christmas rice salad Low FODMAP and Gluten Free

I have a hobby – I collect vintage Christmas decorations. The one in the picture, the watering can, was part of my granddad’s Christmas decorations and I remember it when we used to visit his house. It does look a …
Continue ReadingBlooming blinis this should be a good holiday!

This recipe is really easy to make and is low fodmap, gluten-free and low lactose. You shouldn’t need to buy these, the recipe makes about 30. A great treat for Christmas eve parties to have with a glass of wine …
Continue ReadingChristmas Eve special supper – spicy saffron red pepper and courgette/zucchini quiche

Low Fodmap, low lactose, wheat free + gluten-free. Ingredients 200g of gluten free wheat free flour mix. 90g of milk free margarine Pinch of salt (or 1 packet pastry mix for gluten free, wheat free pastry – this can contain …
Continue ReadingMy favourite wholegrain gluten-free flours and how to use them
Reblogged from Gluten Free Rosie: Cooking, or more specifically, baking without gluten can be pretty tricky. This is because gluten provides important properties such as elasticity. Wheat flour for example helps to bind, thicken, add flavour and create an airy structure within food. Although there is …
Continue ReadingThe first noel – carol singing with warm Low FODMAP sweet pies

It’s the first of December today – and so the countdown begins. I hope you have had a nice surprise this morning when opening your advent calendar for the first time. The evenings are dark early and it is a …
Continue ReadingStir up Sunday – ‘free from’ fun! Low FODMAP, wheat free, gluten free, milk free

By this I certainly don’t mean devoid of pleasure! it is a tradition in our household to make Christmas puddings, but for this year I have decided to make a pudding that you can make just before Christmas and is …
Continue ReadingHave IBS food intolerances and only eating gruel? How to avoid a Dickensian diet this coming holiday!

Christmas and the holidays are a time of celebration and food usually takes a central role, so what if you need to avoid certain foods to prevent having symptoms over the Christmas/holiday period? You can eat food and take some …
Continue ReadingMy annual toilet rant

I have to say I find the price of toilets rather expensive and unlike last year when I travelled to London, this year I am going to blog about the problem. My bladder is partly at fault here, because it …
Continue ReadingOff to London again!

I am planning another trip to London tomorrow, this time to Imperial college London for a course on allergic gastrointestinal disease. I am looking forward to the lecture on eosinophilic oesophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux and other upper GI motility disorders. …
Continue ReadingIt’s a FODMAP free fishy friday

Do you eat fish on Friday? Do you know where this tradition came from? I think one of the most comforting foods during dank winter days is fish pie. It is warming, comforting and can be a really healthy option …
Continue ReadingStir fry beef low fodmap

This recipe is suitable for a Low FODMAP diet, lactose free, wheat free dairy free and some advice later will show you how you can modify this recipe suitable for Crohn’s and colitis too. Give it a go – also …
Continue ReadingGrains galore! Super? Or perhaps not……………

It appears that we have some grains that are ‘super’ according to the blogosphere, now I am not necessarily a fan of super foods which are proposed to be better for you than standard foods, but it is great for …
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