An elemental diet is a restrictive, therapeutic liquid-only diet that provides the body with essential nutrients in a “predigested” form. Doctors may recommend this diet for people with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). This diet regimen may support individuals with certain digestive problems as the eating pattern supports easy assimilation of food and nutrients.
It is typically used for medical reasons to provide essential nutrients while giving the digestive system a rest. In this article, we'll explore what an elemental diet is, how it works, foods to add and avoid, as well as its benefits and potential side effects.
Also Read: Alkaline Diet: 5 Incredible Alkaline Rich Foods That Promotes Overall Health
What Is An Elemental Diet?
An elemental diet consists of pre-digested nutrients in the form of amino acids, simple sugars, medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients are broken down into their simplest forms, allowing for easy absorption by the body without requiring much digestion.
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How Does An Elemental Diet Work?
The goal of an elemental diet is to provide essential nutrients while giving the digestive system a break from processing solid foods. By consuming pre-digested nutrients in liquid form, the digestive system can rest and heal, which may be beneficial for individuals with digestive disorders or conditions that affect nutrient absorption.
This regimen is “elemental” as it offers protein, fats, and carbohydrates which are already broken down into simpler forms:
- Amino acids
- Fatty acids
- Sugars
- It also provides vitamins and minerals
The predigested nutrients do not cause any stress on the gastrointestinal tract before the system assimilates them. A few elemental diets come as ready-to-drink beverages. While others are powdered formulas, where the healthcare provider suggests a recommended dosage and individual blends with water.
Foods To Add And Avoid
Foods to Add
Elemental diet formulas: These are specially formulated liquid supplements that provide all essential nutrients in a predigested form.
Clear liquids: Water, clear broths, and certain juices without pulp may be allowed.
Herbal teas: Non-caffeinated herbal teas may be consumed.
Foods to Avoid
Solid foods: Solid foods are typically avoided during an elemental diet to give the digestive system a rest.
Caffeinated beverages: Caffeine can be irritating to the digestive system and is usually avoided.
High-fibre foods: Foods high in fibre, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are not consumed during an elemental diet.
Benefits of an Elemental Diet
Nutritional Support: An elemental diet provides essential nutrients in an easily absorbable form, ensuring that the body receives the nutrients it needs.
Gut Rest: By giving the digestive system a rest from processing solid foods, an elemental diet may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the gut.
Symptom Relief: For individuals with digestive disorders like Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or ulcerative colitis, an elemental diet may help reduce symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and bloating.
Side Effects of an Elemental Diet
Taste and Palatability: Elemental diet formulas can have a strong, unpleasant taste, which may make them challenging to consume.
Nutrient Deficiencies: While elemental diets are designed to be nutritionally complete, long-term use without medical supervision can lead to nutrient deficiencies.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, or diarrhoea when starting an elemental diet.
Conclusion
An elemental diet is a therapeutic approach to nutrition that provides essential nutrients in a predigested form. It is typically used for medical reasons to give the digestive system a rest and promote healing in individuals with digestive disorders. While an elemental diet can be beneficial, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting one to ensure it is appropriate for your individual needs.
References:
Nutritional and health benefits of semi-elemental diets: A comprehensive summary of the literature
Dominik D Alexander, Lauren C Bylsma, Laura Elkayam, and Douglas L Nguyen
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4848254/
Elemental diet and the nutritional treatment of Crohn’s disease
John Hunter
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4285926/
