Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD)

What is the specific carbohydrate diet?

The Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) is a dietary regimen designed to improve gut health by eliminating certain types of carbohydrates that are believed to contribute to digestive issues and inflammation. It was popularized by Elaine Gottschall in her book “Breaking the Vicious Cycle: Intestinal Health Through Diet”.

Key Features of the Specific Carbohydrate Diet

• Carbohydrate Restriction: The SCD restricts most carbohydrates, focusing specifically on avoiding complex carbohydrates and disaccharides (e.g., lactose). It encourages the consumption of simple carbohydrates like fruits and vegetables that are less likely to ferment in the gut.
• Allowed Foods: The diet emphasizes the consumption of specific whole foods, including meats, fish, eggs, non-starchy vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. It also allows certain fermented foods, such as homemade yogurt, which is thought to be easier to digest due to its probiotic content.
• Excluded Foods: It excludes foods that are high in starches and sugars, such as grains, legumes, dairy products (except for homemade yogurt), and processed foods. The diet also avoids certain artificial sweeteners and additives.
• Focus on Gut Health: The SCD is based on the idea that specific carbohydrates can exacerbate gut problems, such as dysbiosis (an imbalance of gut bacteria) and inflammation. By eliminating these carbohydrates, the diet aims to restore a healthier balance in the gut microbiota and improve overall digestive health.

Potential Benefits

• Digestive Health: Some people report improvements in symptoms related to digestive disorders, such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and celiac disease.
• Reduced Inflammation: By eliminating foods that may trigger inflammation, the diet may help reduce symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).
• Improved Nutrient Absorption: With a focus on whole, unprocessed foods, the diet may enhance nutrient absorption and overall health.

Challenges

• Strict Elimination: The diet requires a significant change in eating habits, which can be challenging to maintain. It involves careful food selection and preparation, which might be difficult for some individuals.
• Nutritional Balance: The restriction of various food groups may lead to potential nutritional deficiencies if not managed properly. It’s important to ensure a balanced intake of essential nutrients.
• Scientific Evidence: While some individuals report benefits from the SCD, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for various health conditions is limited. It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals before starting the diet to ensure it’s appropriate for individual health needs.

Overall, the Specific Carbohydrate Diet aims to support gut health and reduce symptoms associated with certain digestive disorders by focusing on the types of carbohydrates consumed.