Cedars-Sinai researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in the treatment of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and intestinal methanogen overgrowth (IMO). Their innovative nutritional formula, mBiota Elemental, has shown promising results in reducing the abundance of key gut microbiome taxa and improving symptoms in patients with these conditions.
Elemental diets, which are highly digestible nutritional formulas containing free amino acids, simple carbohydrates, minimal fat, and essential micronutrients, have long been used in various gastrointestinal disorders. However, their use in treating microbial overgrowth syndromes like SIBO and IMO has been limited due to poor palatability.
In a recent study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, researchers conducted a clinical trial to evaluate the effectiveness, tolerability, and safety of mBiota Elemental in adult subjects with SIBO and/or IMO. The results were highly promising, with 73% of participants experiencing normalized breath tests and 83% reporting adequate relief of symptoms after a two-week course of the novel PED.
The study also revealed significant reductions in exhaled methane and hydrogen levels, as well as a shift in fermentation geography in the gut post-intervention. Stool microbiome analysis showed a decrease in the relative abundance of key microbial groups, indicating a positive impact on the gut microbiota.
Participants reported improvements in symptoms such as bloating, distention, abdominal discomfort, constipation, and flatulence during the PED phase, with additional symptoms improving during the food reintroduction phase. Importantly, no serious or severe adverse events were reported, and mild side effects were manageable.
The improved taste, smell, and texture of the mBiota Elemental formula were credited for the high adherence rate among participants, overcoming a common barrier to elemental diet use. The findings suggest that a short-term course of mBiota Elemental could be a viable non-antibiotic dietary approach for managing SIBO and IMO.
Overall, the study highlights the potential of mBiota Elemental as a safe and effective treatment option for patients with microbial overgrowth syndromes. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term outcomes and underlying mechanisms, but the results so far are promising for improving the quality of life for individuals with these conditions.
