SCD (Specific Carbohydrate Diet)

The SCD (Specific Carbohydrate Diet) is a therapeutic dietary system aimed at restoring intestinal function, reducing inflammation, and normalizing microbiota.

It is based on strict carbohydrate control: only those that are easily digestible and do not cause fermentation in the intestine are allowed.

This approach helps to reduce the growth of pathogenic bacteria and fungi, improve digestion, and enhance nutrient absorption.

Why the SCD is Needed

The main goal is to restore the integrity of the intestinal mucosa and microbial balance in inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis), irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

The diet reduces inflammation, decreases gas production, normalizes stool, and promotes remission in chronic digestive disorders.

Basic Principles

• exclusion of all complex carbohydrates — starches, disaccharides, and polysaccharides;
• consumption of only simple carbohydrates (monosaccharides) that are easily digestible without fermentation;
• gradual introduction of foods, starting with the most easily digestible;
• strict exclusion of processed and industrial products;
• attention to individual tolerance and body reactions.

Allowed Foods

• meat, poultry, fish, eggs;
• non-starchy vegetables — zucchini, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, onions;
• fruits — apples, bananas (overripe), berries, pears, melon;
• nuts and seeds (in moderation);
• homemade yogurts and fermented products without additives;
• honey as the only allowed sweetener.

Prohibited Foods

• grains (wheat, rice, corn, oats, rye);
• starchy vegetables (potatoes, sweet potatoes, parsnips);
• milk and cream containing lactose;
• sugar, syrups, sugar substitutes;
• canned foods, sausages, sauces, ready-made products with starch;
• legumes — beans, peas, lentils (in most cases).

Diet Variants

• strict variant — used in active intestinal inflammation, includes only basic foods;
• restorative — gradual expansion of the diet as digestion normalizes;
• supportive — long-term adherence to basic principles without strict restrictions, focusing on microbiota.

Advantages of the SCD

• reduction of inflammation in the intestine;
• improvement of microbiota and elimination of dysbiosis;
• decrease in bloating, pain, and diarrhea;
• improvement of nutrient and vitamin absorption;
• increase in energy levels and overall well-being.

Conclusion

The SCD is a therapeutic approach to restoring intestinal health, based on strict carbohydrate control and the exclusion of foods that cause fermentation.

It requires discipline and gradualness, but when properly followed, it can lead to long-term remission, normalization of digestion, and restoration of the microbiome.