Yes, you read that title correctly! It IS possible to still enjoy low FODMAP Christmas nibbles and desserts on Christmas day when adhering to a low FODMAP diet.
But doesnt low FODMAPs often mean restricting a lot of your favourite things? Doesnt it mean no trifle, no pavlova, no chocolate, no dips, no cheese, no biscuits, no shortbread, no nuts, no pudding….no nothing…right? ….WRONG!
I may not come bearing gold, frankincense, or mur (sorry!) BUT I do come bearing good news, and that is you CAN still enjoy some dessert and nibbles at Christmas – without the unpleasant side-effects!
Low FODMAP Nibbles:
Most store bought dips contain high FODMAP ingredients like chickpeas (hummus), beetroot, cream, yoghurt, garlic, and onion. Try making your own such as this delicious roasted pumpkin and walnut dip or cobless spinach dip – they are an absolute crowd pleaser! Pair with gluten-free plain rice-crackers and veggie sticks like carrot and cucumber. Most hard cheeses like cheddar are fine, as are matured cheeses like brie and camembert. For nuts choose macadamias, peanuts, pecans and walnuts.
Low FODMAP Desserts:
If you are a chocolate fan, then this low FODMAP dark chocolate mousse cake is definitely for you and is great paired with lactose-free vanilla ice-cream and fresh raspberries! Or if shortbread is more your thing, then this low FODMAP lemon macadamia shortbread is the way to go – it just melts in your mouth like a good shortbread should. You could make (or buy) mini pavlova nests and top with lactose-free vanilla yoghurt and fresh berries + passionfruit.
Trifle is still a possibility for low FODMAPs if you use a gluten-free sponge, home-made lactose free custard (use lactose-free milk), strawberry jam, berry jelly and low FODMAP fruits such as strawberries and blueberries, and give lactose free cream. Chocolates always seem to make an appearance at Christmas time – try going for dark chocolate as it contains less lactose.
Gut Health Disclaimer:
Whilst many of these foods may be low FODMAP per serve, they are still high in fat and sugar, which can aggravate IBS symptoms. So try not to overdo it, as symptoms may flare up with overindulgence.
Other tips:
For further tips on tackling a low FODMAP Christmas, check out last weeks article on 6 tips for a low FODMAP Christmas (if you haven’t already), and head over to Body and Soul to check out some tips on how to make Christmas healthy, without anyone noticing!
By Amanda Gaukroger