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Cough Drops
Various medicinal lozenges
High FODMAP Risk
Contains Sugar Alcohols
Hidden FODMAPs
Various medicinal cough drops or lozenges

FODMAP/SIBO Rating

Avoid

Serving Size Consideration: 1 cough drop (4g)

Safe Serving Size: Not recommended for FODMAP sensitive individuals

Active Compounds: Sorbitol, Mannitol, Honey, Glucose syrup

Fermentation Level:
Moderate

Digestive Impact

Why it's problematic: Sugar alcohols and honey content

Specific symptoms: Bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea

Typical reaction time frame: 30 minutes to 4 hours

Individual variation: Tolerance varies significantly based on polyol sensitivity

Safe Alternatives

Ginger root

Ginger root

Fresh mint

Fresh mint

Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea

Substitution ratio: Use fresh alternatives as needed

Processing Effects

Heat processing does not reduce FODMAP content

Slow dissolution in mouth increases FODMAP exposure

Stacking Considerations

Avoid combining with:

  • honey
  • artificial sweeteners
  • xylitol
  • sorbitol
  • mannitol

Safe complementary foods: Can be used with ginger tea or peppermint tea for throat soothing

Reintroduction Guidelines
  1. Start with 1/4 of a lozenge to test tolerance
  2. Wait 24 hours to observe any reactions
  3. If well tolerated, try 1/2 lozenge
  4. Progress to full lozenge if no symptoms occur

Signs of success: No digestive discomfort within 24 hours of consumption

Hidden Sources

Common products containing garlic:

  • throat lozenges
  • menthol drops
  • herbal cough drops
  • medicated candies

Alternative names: lozenges, throat drops, medicinal candies, soothing drops

Individual Variables

Factors affecting tolerance:

  • Overall polyol sensitivity
  • Current stress levels
  • Time of day consumed
  • Total daily FODMAP intake
  • Concurrent medication use

Tip: Use sugar-free alternatives with caution as they often contain problematic sugar alcohols