Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Carbohydrates

Complex carbohydrate intolerance (CCI) occurs due to the absence of the enzyme in the small intestine necessary for the digestion of foods with a high oligosaccharides content. Not all complex carbohydrate are high in oligosaccharides. Foods high in oligosaccharides include some vegetables (Brussels sprouts, broccoli & cauliflower), legumes (bean & peas), nuts, seeds, whole grains and whole grain cereals.

The build-up of gases due to CCI produce discomfort, pain, distension or bloating and is often expulsion of excess gas through burping or flatulence. Beano contains the enzymes alpha-galactosidase and sucrase. The first enzyme is breaks down oligosaccharides into the sugars galactose and sucrose and sucrase breaks down sucrose into glucose and fructose that digestible.

Most of the complex carbohydrates including whole grains that are high in oligosaccharides high in insoluble fiber and are listed on Heather's cheat sheet. They should be eaten with care.

Here is a good list of problem foods for individuals with CCI. White rice, potatoes, pasta, banana, white bread, etc are not on the list because they don't contain high levels of oligosaccharides and contribute little to CCI.

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