August 14 is Elemental Diet Day: A Key Step in SIBO Relief for Gastroparesis Patients
Presented in collaboration with G-PACT (Gastroparesis Patient Association for Cures and Treatments)
August 14 is Elemental Diet Day, a day to highlight the critical role elemental diets play in managing Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), particularly for those navigating the challenges of gastroparesis. At mBIOTA Labs, we are proud to support this awareness initiative in partnership with G-PACT, amplifying education and hope for people living with complex digestive conditions.
Gastroparesis and SIBO: A Common Link
Gastroparesis is a condition that delays gastric emptying, slowing down how food moves from the stomach to the small intestine. This stagnation sets the stage for SIBO, a secondary condition in which bacteria overgrow in the small intestine, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, malabsorption, and irregular bowel movements.
SIBO is one of the most common secondary complications of gastroparesis. In fact, many people with gastroparesis suffer from SIBO without realizing it, mistaking overlapping symptoms as “just part of the disease.” According to a 2023 meta-analysis, approximately 41% of individuals with gastroparesis also have SIBO (source).
Treating SIBO to Improve Quality of Life
It’s important to understand that elemental diets are not a management tool for gastroparesis itself, but they can be a powerful tool in treating SIBO, the secondary condition. By addressing SIBO, patients often see improvements in bloating, abdominal discomfort, and nutrient absorption, relieving some of the burden associated with chronic digestive illness.
For many with gastroparesis, treating SIBO is a meaningful step toward overall symptom management.
What Is an Elemental Diet?
An elemental diet consists of a complete, liquid nutrition formula made from broken-down nutrients: free-form amino acids (protein), simple carbohydrates, and essential fats. These nutrients are absorbed quickly in the upper digestive tract, providing nourishment to the body while denying fuel to bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
Clinical studies have shown that a 2-week elemental diet protocol can significantly reduce the bacterial load in SIBO and relieve symptoms, sometimes even more effectively than alternative management methods.
Who Should Avoid It?
While the elemental diet is a valuable therapy for SIBO, it is not suitable for everyone. People with diabetes should not use elemental diets due to the potential impact on blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes or another complex condition, consult your healthcare provider for appropriate alternatives or modifications.
Empowering Patients Through Awareness
At mBIOTA Elemental, we believe that education is empowerment. On August 14, Elemental Diet Day, we join G-PACT in encouraging patients and providers alike to understand the SIBO-gastroparesis connection and explore how elemental nutrition can support targeted gut recovery.
If you're living with gastroparesis and dealing with unresolved GI symptoms like bloating or malabsorption, talk to your doctor about being evaluated for SIBO. An elemental diet could help you take back control over your digestive health.
Join the Movement
Spread the word this Elemental Diet Day by using #ElementalDietDay and sharing your experiences with SIBO and elemental nutrition.
For more information about elemental diets for SIBO, visit mbiota.com.
To learn more about gastroparesis and patient support, visit g-pact.org
