GLOSSARY

Fructose Malabsorption is incomplete intestinal absorption of fructose under the relevant intake and testing conditions.

A low-FODMAP intervention is intended for selected gastrointestinal symptoms and usually includes restriction, structured reintroduction and personalization. It is not a permanent ban on every fermentable carbohydrate or a general weight-loss diet. Tolerance depends on portion and cumulative intake, and improved symptoms do not identify an immune allergy. Guided reintroduction helps retain food variety and adequacy. Athletes should also check whether restrictions unintentionally reduce carbohydrate or energy intake needed for training and recovery.

Gastrointestinal symptoms can arise from functional disorders, inflammation, malabsorption, medication, infection and other causes. Irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease are different diagnoses and should not be treated as interchangeable labels. Food changes can help selected symptoms, but persistent bleeding, unexplained weight loss, severe pain or other concerning features require assessment. In athletes, consider meal timing and exercise triggers without assuming that all recurrent gastrointestinal symptoms are simply a normal consequence of training.

An adequate diet provides sufficient energy and essential nutrients while fitting health needs. A high score for variety or a healthy food label cannot independently demonstrate adequacy. Review what is actually eaten, including foods excluded and suitable replacements. Athletes can consume many vegetables yet still lack enough energy or carbohydrate for training. Assess the overall pattern, distribution and relevant nutrient risks rather than assuming that a single food or supplement makes the entire diet balanced.