The 8x5 Diet for Bile Acid Diarrhoea: A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial
Bile acid diarrhoea is a common cause of chronic watery diarrhoea. Treatment is life-long medication. However, about 50% of people have ongoing, bothersome diarrhoea. Findings from recent research on diet therapies and food intolerances have been used to develop a healthy dietary pattern called The 8x5 Diet. We will test the practicalities of conducting a randomised controlled trial of this dietary intervention.
• Age ≥ 18 years, of any ethnic group, living in the United Kingdom and not planning to move home for the next three months
• Self-reported diagnosis of bile acid diarrhoea that was confirmed by 7-day SeHCAT testing
• Self-reported ongoing chronic diarrhoea despite use of appropriate medication
• Able to participate in either diet group with the intention to remain in the group to which they were assigned for the 8 week study period
• Body mass index ≥20 kg m-2
• Able to converse in English (or via their carer, without assistance from an interpreter) using a computer/laptop, smart phone, or tablet
• Able to provide informed written consent
• Able to provide the address of their general practioner so that the research team can inform them of their participation.