A new study from Cedars-Sinai investigated whether a specialized diet, known as the elemental diet, could improve gastrointestinal disorders linked to an imbalance in gut microbiota.
Published in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the research focused on enhancing the diet’s taste to improve patient adherence.
The elemental diet is a low-fat, liquid formulation that is easy to digest and contains essential nutrients. It has shown potential in treating symptoms of conditions such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), intestinal methanogen overgrowth (IMO), Crohn’s disease, and eosinophilic esophagitis.
The diet works by reducing gut inflammation, rebalancing microbiota, and healing the intestinal lining. However, its poor taste and strict protocol have led to low adherence rates.
The study involved 30 adults aged 18 to 85 diagnosed with SIBO or IMO. Participants followed a more palatable version of the elemental diet strictly for two weeks, followed by a two-week return to their normal diet. Researchers assessed gut microbiome changes, diet tolerability, symptom improvement, breath test outcomes, and any side effects.
Results showed the diet was well tolerated, with no serious side effects. A major finding was the significant reduction of harmful gut microbes and methane levels, with many participants showing normalized levels.
Notably, 83% of participants experienced symptom relief, including reductions in bloating and discomfort. These improvements suggest that better-tasting elemental diets could be effective and more accessible treatment options for patients who struggle with traditional therapies.
“Elemental diets are designed to give the digestive system a break by providing easily absorbed nutrients,” explained Dr. Ali Rezaie. “This helps reduce gut stress and improves overall function.” Dr. Mark Pimentel added that improving the taste could enhance adherence and quality of life.
Researchers plan to conduct larger-scale studies to assess the long-term effects and investigate socioeconomic barriers to adopting this treatment.
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The study is published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
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