Monash University Launches Official Low FODMAP Diet App in Japanese

Monash University, a global authority in low FODMAP research, will make its official app “Monash University LOW FODMAP DIET™” available in Japanese starting December 1, 2025. This app is designed to provide valuable support for individuals suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Through collaboration with Gutte Co., Ltd., led by Takuro Miyazaki, and Saikinso Co., Ltd., which specializes in gut flora analysis, the app has undergone meticulous localization to serve Japanese users effectively. Both companies contributed their expertise to curate and optimize the content for the app, signaling a significant step in providing relief and management strategies for those dealing with gastrointestinal distress.

Background: The Rising Need for Accurate IBS Information

Approximately 10-15% of the Japanese population is believed to suffer from IBS, with effective dietary management through the low FODMAP diet being widely endorsed in medical circles worldwide. However, Japan has faced challenges accessing reliable information tailored to local food ingredients and cultural preferences, as most resources have been predominantly in English.

The Role of the App: A Trustworthy Dietary Dictionary

The Monash LOW FODMAP DIET™ app is not just another health tracking tool; it acts as a specialized resource for dietary therapy. Unlike conventional health apps, it employs a traffic signal coding system to indicate the FODMAP content of foods: red (high), yellow (moderate), and green (low). This scientific approach allows users to easily determine which foods are safe to consume and which might exacerbate their symptoms.

In addition, the app features a variety of functionalities tailored for IBS self-management, such as:

- A library of low FODMAP recipes
- Information on Monash-certified brands and products
- A symptom diary for tracking daily wellness

Project Features

1. Addition of Unique Japanese Food Data: The team has included data on 21 essential Japanese foods, such as udon, burdock root, maitake mushrooms, and natto. These have been rigorously analyzed for their FODMAP content at Monash University’s laboratories, enabling accurate assessments that align with Japanese diets.

2. Expert Oversight by Qualified Professionals: The app's content has been reviewed and translated by dietitians who have completed Monash's specialized FODMAP Dietitian Course. This ensures both nutritional accuracy and user-friendly language suited for the Japanese audience.

3. Culturally Relevant Recipe Development: The app offers ten original low FODMAP Japanese recipes, which can be accessed within the app or on their official website, allowing users to enjoy traditional dishes without compromising their dietary restrictions.

Comments from Key Stakeholders

- Monash University FODMAP Team: “The translation and localization of the Monash FODMAP App is an exciting advancement for IBS patients and healthcare providers in Japan. Providing accurate information tailored to the Japanese dietary environment makes the evidence-based approach to dietary management more accessible and practical for local users.”

- Takuro Miyazaki, CEO of Gutte Co., Ltd.: “Our aim was to present the low FODMAP diet in a way that can be practically implemented by patients and healthcare providers in Japan. We hope this app will ease their discomfort and concerns.”

- Aya Takeda, Co-Founder of Saikinso Co., Ltd.: “Our previous endeavors have focused on solving the issues faced by individuals with IBS through our gut flora testing service, Mykinso. This app will serve as a scientific and reliable reference for those in need of dietary therapy.”

Launch Campaign

To celebrate the launch of the Japanese version, the Monash FODMAP official social media accounts (including Instagram and Facebook) will host a campaign where followers can win download codes for the app. For further details, check their social media pages.

Future Initiatives

Moving forward, the three organizations are in discussions about future projects aimed at optimizing dietary solutions for IBS patients in Japan, including:
1. Ongoing analysis and enhancement of Japanese food data
2. Joint seminars for healthcare professionals and information dissemination for patients
3. Development of recipes aligned with Japanese culinary traditions
4. Establishing partnerships with food manufacturers to promote FODMAP-certified products
5. Accumulating insights about the effectiveness of low FODMAP diets concerning Japan's unique gut flora characteristics.

Understanding Low FODMAP Diets

The low FODMAP diet refers to a structured eating approach designed to alleviate symptoms of IBS. It is divided into three phases: the elimination phase (2-6 weeks of low FODMAP foods), the challenge phase (systematically identifying trigger foods), and the reintroduction phase (gradually incorporating previously eliminated foods that do not trigger symptoms).

Developed through extensive scientific research, the low FODMAP diet is widely recommended in clinical guidelines worldwide and is gaining traction among both healthcare institutions and patients in Japan.

App Overview

- Name: Monash University LOW FODMAP DIET™
- Launch Date: December 1, 2025
- Pricing: Paid (subject to store-specific pricing)
- Developer/Operator: Monash University
- Collaboration: Gutte Co., Ltd., Saikinso Co., Ltd.
- Website: Monash FODMAP

Company Overview

Monash University

Founded in 1961, Monash University is a prestigious research-intensive institution located in Australia. It is recognized globally for its commitment to addressing significant issues such as climate change and promoting health, serving a diverse international community.

Gutte Co., Ltd.

Established in 2018, Gutte focuses on developing health-focused products and community support for IBS patients in Japan.

Saikinso Co., Ltd.

Founded in 2014, Saikinso specializes in developing gut flora testing services to aid individuals in enhancing their health through personalized dietary solutions.