Dietary Interventions for Systemic Sclerosis

(DIGEST Trial)

This trial aims to determine how different diets, collectively known as the Systemic Sclerosis Diet, can alleviate bloating, abdominal pain, and other gut issues in individuals with systemic sclerosis (a condition that causes hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues). Participants will follow one of three diets: reducing fermentable carbs, avoiding foods harmful to gut health, or focusing on regular meals with fiber and portion control. This trial suits those already diagnosed with systemic sclerosis who experience moderate to severe bloating or distension. As an unphased trial, it offers an opportunity to explore dietary approaches that could enhance the quality of life for those with systemic sclerosis.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it does mention that you should not have used systemic antibiotics within 4 weeks before starting the trial.

Research shows that dietary changes can affect symptoms in people with systemic sclerosis, a condition impacting the skin and internal organs. For Diet 1, which limits certain carbohydrates, studies suggest that individuals with similar conditions may experience worsened gut issues with high-fiber foods. This indicates the diet might help, but reactions vary.

Diet 2 involves eliminating foods that might harm the gut. While some research shows that certain diets don't significantly change symptoms in systemic sclerosis, removing specific foods could still be safe and beneficial for some individuals.

Diet 3 promotes regular meal times, eating soluble fiber, and controlling portion sizes. Research highlights the importance of good nutrition in managing systemic sclerosis, suggesting that structured eating may improve health without major safety concerns.

Researchers are excited about these dietary interventions for systemic sclerosis because they offer a novel approach that focuses on nutrition rather than medication. Unlike standard treatments, which often include immunosuppressive drugs and physical therapy, these diets aim to improve health by modifying what people eat. The first diet restricts fermentable carbohydrates, which may reduce gut inflammation. The second eliminates foods harmful to the gut barrier and microbiome, potentially improving gut health and systemic inflammation. The third diet emphasizes regular meal patterns, soluble fiber, and portion control, aiming to stabilize gut function and improve overall wellness. These dietary approaches could provide a complementary or alternative option to traditional treatments, possibly with fewer side effects.

This trial will compare three dietary interventions for managing stomach issues in people with systemic sclerosis, a condition affecting connective tissues. Diet 1 involves restricting fermentable carbohydrates. Studies suggest that reducing certain carbs, like those in a low-FODMAP diet, can alleviate bloating and stomach pain for some people, although other research found no significant symptom changes with this diet. Diet 2 focuses on eliminating foods harmful to the gut barrier and microbiome. A high-fiber, plant-based diet has been linked to better gut health and reduced inflammation. Diet 3 involves regular meal patterns, soluble fiber, and portion control, which can help with symptoms like bloating. Eating small, frequent meals with soluble fiber might also provide relief. Each diet offers potential benefits, but individual results can vary.¹²³⁶⁷