couscous
Grains
Is couscous high in gos?
Find out whether couscous is high or low in gos, see its exact rating, and check its FODMAP, salicylate, oxalate and diet compatibility all in one place.
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Sensitivity notes
Why gos food checker matters
Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) are carbohydrates found mainly in legumes and some vegetables. They're a FODMAP that can ferment in the gut, causing bloating and discomfort in sensitive people.
- Canned and rinsed legumes are lower in GOS than dried
- Start with smaller portions and build up tolerance
- Some people find beano-type enzymes helpful
Triggers
Diets
Serving size, prep, and portion notes for couscous
Couscous looks like a grain but is really a tiny pasta, steamed granules rolled from durum semolina, the staple of North African cooking. Because it is a wheat product it is high in gluten and rated high FODMAP from its fructan content. That combination means it can cause bloating and gas as well as the usual gluten problems, and it is one of the foods most often mistaken for a safe grain when it is not.
Watch for
High in gluten because it is made from semolina wheat, not a grain, so it is off limits on a gluten-free diet / High in fructans and high FODMAP, a common cause of bloating and gas / Higher in lectins, a secondary consideration for people sensitive to them
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GOS Guide
Everything you need to know about gos sensitivity and smart food choices.
Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) are carbohydrates found mainly in legumes and some vegetables. They're a FODMAP that can ferment in the gut, causing bloating and discomfort in sensitive people.
Sensitivity varies widely. What triggers one person may be fine for another. Track your reactions to find your personal threshold.
These foods are generally well-tolerated for GOS sensitivity:
View all safe options
These foods have moderate levels and may be tolerated in small amounts:
These foods are high in gos and may trigger symptoms:
View full list
If you're sensitive to GOS, consider these strategies:
- 1Canned and rinsed legumes are lower in GOS than dried
- 2Start with smaller portions and build up tolerance
- 3Some people find beano-type enzymes helpful
- 4Firm tofu is lower in GOS than silken tofu
- 5Sprouted legumes may be better tolerated
Pro tip: Keep a food diary to track your reactions. The Triggerbites app makes this easy with automatic pattern detection.
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Get the AppFAQ
Is couscous high in GOS?
GOS: low signal for most people.
Can I still eat couscous if I'm sensitive to GOS?
Usually fine in normal portions.
What else should I check?
Check Gluten, Gluten, and Paleo AIP next for a fuller picture.