Can I Eat at McDonald's with SIBO? What You Need to Know
If you live with SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), your diet is crucial to managing symptoms.
Many people ask if a McDonald's meal is possible. The straightforward answer: it's not ideal, though small adjustments exist.
McDonald’s staples—burgers, fries, sauces—tend to be loaded with hidden sugars, gluten, FODMAPs, and fermentable seasonings, all of which can trigger symptoms. For most with SIBO, it’s a risky move.
However, if you really want to indulge, a few tweaks help: choose a potato bun (often gentler than wheat buns), avoid fried potatoes (to skip problematic oils), and ask them to remove onions or any spicy condiments. Even with these changes, it’s a delicate balance.
In short, McDonald’s is not a “SIBO-friendly” destination. If you’re seeking safe options, home-cooked meals or dedicated FODMAP-friendly venues will serve you better. Your gut will thank you!