Past research suggests that an imbalance of gut bacteria develops after spinal cord injury (SCI). This imbalance can lead to cardiometabolic diseases like obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

The UAB Spinal Cord Injury Model System (UAB-SCIMS) conducted a research study that looked at the effect of a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet on the gut microbiome (the makeup of the bacteria that are in the digestive tract). The diet included lean meats, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

UAB-SCIMS researchers recruited 19 adults who were at least 3 years post-injury. They were between 18–65 years of age and with different levels and severity of injury. The study divided participants at random into one of two groups. The study group had all of their weekly meals provided and delivered to their homes. A dietitian tailored the meals to each person’s taste preferences and made sure the meals met the healthy dietary guidelines of providing 40% energy from carbohydrates, 30% energy from protein, and 30% energy. The control group continued their usual diet.

The gut microbiome was measured from stool samples collected from both groups at the start of the study and at the end of the study 8 weeks later. The result was that people with SCI who eat a healthy, low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet showed improved gut microbiome. These results may lead to an easy, patient-focused method to improve the imbalance of gut bacteria that can help prevent cardiometabolic disorders.

This study was funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research and published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.