Chickpeas
Cicer arietinum
High in GOS
High Fiber
Good Protein Source
Raw and cooked chickpeas

FODMAP/SIBO Rating

Avoid

Serving Size Consideration: 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas

Safe Serving Size: 1/4 cup cooked chickpeas

Active Compounds: Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), Fructans

Fermentation Level:
High

Digestive Impact

Why it's problematic: High in FODMAPs, particularly GOS

Specific symptoms: Bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and possible changes in bowel movements

Typical reaction time frame: Symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes to 4 hours after consumption

Individual variation: Tolerance levels vary significantly between individuals

Safe Alternatives

Substitution ratio: 1:1 replacement in most recipes

Processing Effects

Canned chickpeas may be slightly lower in FODMAPs due to the soaking process

Sprouting can reduce FODMAP content

Cooking doesn't significantly reduce FODMAP content

Stacking Considerations

Avoid combining with:

  • lentils
  • beans
  • hummus
  • garlic
  • onion

Safe complementary foods: Can be combined with low FODMAP grains like rice and quinoa, and low FODMAP vegetables

Reintroduction Guidelines
  1. Start with 1 tablespoon (15g) of well-cooked chickpeas
  2. Wait 24-48 hours to assess tolerance
  3. If no symptoms, increase to 2 tablespoons
  4. Maximum test portion should not exceed 1/4 cup (30g)

Signs of success: No significant bloating, gas, or digestive discomfort within 48 hours of consumption

Hidden Sources

Common products containing garlic:

  • hummus
  • falafel
  • Indian curries
  • Mediterranean salads
  • vegetarian meat substitutes

Alternative names: garbanzo beans, ceci beans, bengal gram, chana

Individual Variables

Factors affecting tolerance:

  • Overall gut health
  • Portion size consumed
  • Processing method (canned vs. dried)
  • Individual FODMAP tolerance
  • Stress levels
  • Time of day consumed

Tip: Keep a food diary to track your personal tolerance levels and identify patterns in your response to chickpeas