The Specific Carbohydrate Diet may potentially help some people manage their chronic conditions, though this diet is not a cure for all ailments. If you're experiencing muscle pain, a restrictive diet may not be the answer. Knowing the cause of your pain can help pinpoint a treatment that works for you.
The Specific Carbohydrate Diet
The Specific Carbohydrate Diet, or SCD, is a gluten-free, grain-free and sucrose-free diet developed by biochemist Elaine Gottschall. Unlike the less-restrictive gluten-free diet, the SCD prohibits a large number of foods, including all grains, milk, starchy vegetables, processed meats and many types of legumes. Though the diet is targeted mainly toward those who suffer from celiac disease, Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, cystic fibrosis, ulcerative colitis and chronic diarrhea, Gottschall claims that the SCD may have health benefits for people suffering from other ailments as well. According to Gottschall, this diet helps heal the intestines and stops undigested carbohydrates from injuring the intestines.
Criticism
Though some people claim to feel better after starting the SCD, many doctors are hesitant to suggest this diet to patients. Edward V. Loftus, Jr., M.D., from MayoClinic.com notes that there simply isn't enough scientific evidence available to show that the diet works. Gastroenterologist Arthur D. Heller has also voiced concern about the diet's potential nutritional deficiencies.
Muscle Pain Relief
Though pain is one of the many symptoms of conditions such as cystic fibrosis and Crohn's disease, the Specific Carbohydrate Diet was not developed to specifically treat muscle pain. Patients who find that the SCD helps their intestinal condition may see a reduction in pain, though the SCD is not a treatment or cure for muscle pain in general.
Considerations
Muscle pain may be caused by a number of different conditions, and knowing the cause of your muscle pain can help you determine the right treatment. Localized muscle pain is commonly caused by injuries, stress or overuse. Systemic pain, on the other hand, may be caused by a number of things, such as certain medications or viral infections. Many different diseases can also cause muscle pain, such as Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus and myofascial pain syndrome.
Suggestions
If you're experiencing muscle pain, see a doctor to determine the cause. Additionally, if you suspect that dietary changes may help you manage your condition, talk to your doctor first to determine which diet is right for you. If you have a chronic condition, it may not be safe for you to drastically change your diet. Talking to a medical professional about pain management and dietary changes can help you determine what course of action is best.
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