An elemental diet is a hypoallergenic, liquid diet that provides all essential nutrients in a predigested form, usually consisting of amino acids, glucose or other simple sugars, medium-chain triglycerides, vitamins, and minerals. It is designed to be easily absorbed in the upper part of the small intestine, giving the rest of the digestive tract a rest.

Elemental diets are used to manage various health conditions, particularly gastrointestinal disorders like SIBO, eosinophilic esophagitis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis, as well as other conditions like food allergies and chemoradiotherapy-associated mucositis. It can help reduce inflammation, starve bacterial or fungal overgrowths, and provide nutritional support when the digestive system is impaired.

Yes, an elemental diet should ideally be followed under the supervision of a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or registered dietitian. They can help determine if it’s the right treatment, recommend the appropriate formula and dosage, monitor for side effects, and guide the reintroduction of food.

The duration is not standardized and depends on your health condition and healthcare provider’s recommendations. It is often short-term, ranging from 4 to 6 weeks. For SIBO, a typical duration is 14–21 days. For inflammatory bowel disease, it could be up to six weeks for a 100% elemental diet. Longer-term use, especially beyond three weeks, should be under professional supervision. Some individuals may use a partial elemental diet for extended periods.

An elemental diet typically involves consuming only the elemental formula and no solid food. Water and plain tea are usually the only other permitted liquids. Some healthcare providers may permit specific items like candies made with pure cane sugar, corn syrup, Gatorade, or highly refined oils in certain circumstances. Always adhere strictly to your healthcare provider’s guidance.

You can drink water, tea, or black coffee. Caffeine is generally acceptable for most people, but avoid cream and sugar and be cautious if you are sensitive to caffeine. Some practitioners recommend avoiding caffeinated beverages for better bowel rest, though herbal teas might be acceptable depending on the specific type.

Continue to take any prescription medicines while on an elemental diet. It’s crucial to discuss any medications and supplements with your healthcare provider before starting the diet, as they may recommend adjustments.

Before starting, discuss your diagnosis, current medications and supplements with your healthcare provider, and have a plan to manage the mental and emotional challenges of the diet. Planning ahead and having enough formula and necessary supplies ready can also be helpful.

Substantial weight loss has been reported in adults on elemental diets. Some studies have shown significant weight loss, which is not always the intended outcome. One study using mBIOTA Elemental showed that while patients lost weight (around 5% after two weeks), they also experienced a significant loss of body fat, and weight loss wasn’t necessarily due to inadequate calorie intake.

Weight loss is not always inevitable. While some weight loss might occur, especially initially as you are consuming only liquids, the primary goal is usually to manage a medical condition rather than to lose weight. People who are underweight can sometimes maintain or even gain weight on the diet, especially by ensuring adequate calorie intake.

You can engage in light physical activity, such as walking or gentle yoga, while on an elemental diet.

Drawbacks can include poor palatability leading to difficulties in tolerating the diet, high cost of formulas, social restrictions due to the liquid-only nature, potential for unwanted weight loss, and possible digestive issues or mood swings. Elemental formulas are typically low in fat and high in carbs, which might affect blood sugar levels. Long-term use without solid food can also lead to oral problems.

Some evidence suggests that elemental diets may benefit people with SIBO by reducing food in the small intestine and starving the bacteria that cause symptoms. One study showed a 100% eradication rate for SIBO using the mBIOTA Elemental diet. However, larger-scale clinical trials are still necessary.

There is no conclusive research on whether elemental diets worsen or improve fungal overgrowth. Theoretically, the easily absorbed carbohydrates could feed fungus, but they are also absorbed high up in the digestive tract, potentially starving overgrowths further down. Some practitioners might recommend prophylactic antifungals.

Yes, elemental diets can be used in children, but compliance can be a significant barrier due to palatability issues. Sometimes, nasogastric or gastrostomy tubes are required. Cost can also be a factor for families. When determining the best dietary approach for a child, potential obstacles need careful consideration.

Elemental diets have been known for poor palatability due to the use of amino acids instead of whole protein. However, manufacturers have made efforts to improve taste with flavored and unflavored options. Some newer formulas, like mBIOTA Elemental, are reported to have superior taste. Refrigerating the formula and drinking it cold or blending it with ice can also improve palatability.

Maltodextrin is a branched carbohydrate that breaks down quickly into glucose and is absorbed. It is used in elemental formulas as a source of carbohydrates that is less sweet than pure glucose, making the formula more palatable while still being easily digestible.

After completing an elemental diet, it is crucial to reintroduce solid foods gradually, working with your healthcare provider to determine the best strategy. This slow and controlled process helps your body readjust and can help identify any foods that may trigger your symptoms.

While you might lose weight on an elemental diet, it is not intended for weight loss and is not recommended for this purpose without medical supervision. It is typically used to prevent or maintain weight in individuals with specific medical conditions. Using it for weight loss can be overly restrictive, expensive, and may lead to negative side effects.

While theoretically alcohol might be absorbed before feeding bacteria, no healthcare professional would endorse alcohol consumption during an elemental diet. If considered, it would need to be a pure spirit without sugar.