Jeffrey Salazar
The elemental diet is a medical food product that provides complete nutrition and is used to treat GI problems like SIBO, IBD, leaky gut syndrome, allergies, and IBS. It is a predigested liquid formula that replaces all nutrition for 14–21 days and comprises the basic building blocks of nutrition: amino acids, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. The diet can be purchased or made at home. To make it at home, you will need a blender or food processor, and a combination of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and multivitamin and mineral supplements. The ingredients are blended with water and then stored in glass bottles or jars in the refrigerator.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Goal | To restore nutritional status and promote healing |
| Diet type | Liquid |
| Duration | 14-21 days |
| Frequency | Once or twice per day |
| Calories | Consume enough calories so as not to lose weight |
| Protein | 0.8 g/kg body weight |
| Carbohydrates | Low or high |
| Fats | High |
| Vitamins | Multivitamin with 100% DV of B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin E |
| Taste | Unpalatable |
| Preparation | Clean kitchen, wash hands, gather ingredients and equipment |
| Blender | High-speed |
| Storage | Glass bottles or jars, refrigerated |
| Consumption | Follow practitioner's guidelines |
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What You'll Learn
Prepare your digestive system by fasting and eating soft foods
Preparing your digestive system for an elemental diet involves a period of fasting and the consumption of soft foods. This is important because the elemental diet is used to treat intestinal issues, so you want to ensure your digestive system is ready for this change.
Fasting is a key part of the elemental diet, with some sources recommending 16-18 hours of intermittent fasting per day, for at least 5 days a week. This fasting period is meant to stimulate the migrating motor complex (MMC). Fasting can be challenging, and it is important to stay hydrated during this time.
In addition to fasting, eating soft foods is an important way to prepare your digestive system. Soft foods are easier to digest, which gives your digestive system a break and can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Soft foods include eggs, chicken, salmon, bananas, and oatmeal. Boiled, poached, or scrambled eggs are especially easy to digest, and eggs are a good source of protein. Meat can be grilled, broiled, baked, or poached, as frying can add fat which is harder to digest.
Some foods to avoid when preparing for an elemental diet include high-fat foods, high-fiber foods, and common allergens. High-fat foods like butter, oils, and full-fat dairy products can be difficult to digest because fat moves through the gut more slowly. High-fiber foods like whole wheat bread and brown rice can also be hard on the digestive system, so it is recommended to opt for white bread and white rice instead. Common allergens like grains (especially gluten), tree nuts, shellfish, and cow's milk should also be avoided, as well as caffeine and alcohol.
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Gather ingredients: protein, carbs, fats, vitamins, and minerals
The elemental diet is a predigested liquid formula that replaces all nutrition for 14 to 21 days. It is a blend of the basic building blocks of nutrition: amino acids (protein), carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is important to consume the diet as recommended by your healthcare professional or registered dietitian. Before starting the diet, it is recommended to prepare your digestive system for the change. This can include incorporating extended fasting periods and eating soft foods or smoothies.
Protein is an essential component of the elemental diet, providing amino acids that are crucial for muscle health and various bodily functions. When selecting your protein source, consider options such as whey protein isolate, pea protein, or collagen peptides. Pure protein powder is also an option, with collagen or bone broth recommended.
Carbohydrates are another key ingredient in the elemental diet. Non-GMO tapioca, maltodextrin, or dextrose are suitable sources of carbohydrates that can be included in the diet. These ingredients provide a quick source of energy and help with the absorption of other nutrients.
Healthy fats are also essential in the elemental diet as they provide essential fatty acids. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil and coconut oil are popular choices due to their high concentration of medium-chain fatty acids, which are easily digested and provide energy. These fats also possess antimicrobial properties, contributing to a healthy gut environment.
Vitamins and minerals are crucial components of the elemental diet, ensuring your body receives a wide range of micronutrients for optimal function. A high-quality multivitamin supplement that includes 100% DV of all B vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin E is recommended. This helps fill any nutritional gaps and ensures your body receives the necessary nutrients.
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Blend ingredients with water
Blending the ingredients with water is a crucial step in making an elemental diet formula that is palatable and easy to consume. This step involves using a blender or food processor to mix the chosen protein, carbohydrate, fat sources, and multivitamin and mineral supplements with water.
Firstly, it is important to ensure that your blender or food processor is clean and ready to use. A high-speed blender is recommended for optimal blending and to achieve a smooth consistency. Before blending, measure out the appropriate amounts of each ingredient, as specified in the recipe or by your healthcare practitioner.
When selecting your protein source, consider options such as whey protein isolate, pea protein, or collagen peptides. For carbohydrates, non-GMO tapioca, maltodextrin, or dextrose are recommended. Healthy fats such as medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil or coconut oil are easily digested and provide essential fatty acids.
It is important to blend on high speed to break down any clumps and ensure a smooth consistency. You may need to blend for a longer period of time to achieve the desired texture. The amount of water added can be adjusted to achieve the desired consistency, but typically, each scoop of the powder is mixed with 7-8 ounces of water.
After blending, pour the mixture into individual glass bottles or jars for easy storage and portion control. Refrigerate the bottles to maintain freshness and integrity. The elemental diet formula can be consumed as needed, following the recommendations of your healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
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Store in glass bottles and refrigerate
Once you've blended your homemade elemental diet mixture, it's time to store it in glass bottles or jars. Glass is the recommended storage container because it's non-reactive and won't leach any harmful chemicals into your mixture. The blending process is important to achieve a palatable drink, but storing it in the right container will help maintain its freshness and integrity.
Pour the blended mixture into your chosen glass bottles or jars, dividing it into individual portions for convenient storage and portion control. Seal the bottles or jars tightly to prevent any spillage or leakage, and always label the containers with the date of preparation.
Refrigerate the bottles, and your homemade elemental diet is ready whenever you need it. Refrigeration helps to preserve the quality and freshness of the mixture, ensuring it stays safe and nutritious for consumption. It is recommended to consume the diet as advised by a healthcare professional or registered dietitian, adhering to any specific guidelines or instructions provided.
The elemental diet is typically followed for a specific duration, such as 14 to 21 days, and it's important to prepare your body for this significant change. It's advisable to wind down on food gradually and incorporate extended fasting periods before starting the diet. During the diet, you may also want to stay connected with friends and family and seek their support, as it can be challenging to refrain from regular meals.
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Consume as recommended by a healthcare professional
The elemental diet is a medical food product that provides complete nutrition in a form that is easy to assimilate. It is often used to treat GI problems such as SIBO, IBD, leaky gut syndrome, allergies, and IBS. It is a predigested liquid formula that replaces all nutrition for 14 to 21 days. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before starting the elemental diet to ensure it is suitable for you and to determine the appropriate duration and any specific guidelines or instructions.
The elemental diet comprises amino acids, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is essential to include healthy fats in the diet, such as medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil or coconut oil, as they provide essential fatty acids and have antimicrobial properties that support a healthy gut environment. Additionally, a multivitamin and mineral supplement should be included to fill in any nutritional gaps and ensure the body receives a wide range of micronutrients.
When preparing the elemental diet at home, it is crucial to maintain a clean and sanitized kitchen to avoid contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly and gather all the equipment and ingredients, including your chosen protein, carbohydrate, and fat sources, as well as supplements. A blender or food processor is recommended for optimal blending and a smooth consistency. Blend on high speed to break down any clumps, then pour the mixture into glass bottles or jars for easy storage and portion control.
Consume the elemental diet as recommended by your healthcare professional or registered dietitian. Typically, each scoop of the powder is mixed with 7-8 ounces of water (cold or room temperature), and it is important to drink it slowly over the course of an hour. You can also premix a day's worth of the diet and store it for up to 24 hours. Remember to always follow the specific guidelines provided by your healthcare professional.
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Frequently asked questions
An elemental diet is a liquid formula that replaces all nutrition for 14-21 days. It is absorbed quickly in the small intestine and aims to starve bacterial overgrowth. It is often used to treat GI problems like SIBO, IBD, leaky gut syndrome, allergies, and IBS.
Before starting an elemental diet, it is recommended to prepare your digestive system for the change. This can include incorporating fasting periods and eating soft foods or smoothies. It is also important to choose a time when you don't have major commitments, so you can focus on your health.
You will need a protein source such as whey protein isolate, pea protein, or collagen peptides, a carbohydrate source, a fat source, and a multivitamin and mineral supplement.
First, ensure your kitchen and equipment are clean and sanitized. Measure out the appropriate amounts of each ingredient. Use a blender to blend the ingredients with water until smooth. Pour the mixture into glass bottles or jars and refrigerate.
Mix each scoop of the powder with 7-8 oz of water (cold or room temperature). Drink slowly over the course of an hour. You can also premix a day's worth of the diet and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
