The Specific Carbohydrate Diet: An Overview
The Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) is a restrictive dietary approach primarily used to manage symptoms of certain gastrointestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. The core principle is to eliminate complex carbohydrates, which are poorly absorbed and can feed harmful bacteria in the gut, leading to inflammation and digestive issues. The diet instead focuses on easily digestible, nutrient-dense foods like meat, fish, eggs, fruits, and non-starchy vegetables. Condiments and dressings are often a point of confusion for those new to the diet, and mayonnaise is a prime example.
The Problem with Store-Bought Mayonnaise
Commercial, off-the-shelf mayonnaise is strictly forbidden on the SCD. The reason is that virtually all store-bought brands contain illegal ingredients that violate the diet's core principles. These problematic components include:
- Processed Oils: Most commercial mayonnaises are made with prohibited oils like canola, corn, and soybean oil. These are heavily processed and not allowed on the SCD.
- Added Sugars: Many brands include sweeteners like sugar or corn syrup to enhance flavor, both of which are illegal on the SCD.
- Additives and Preservatives: Commercial products contain emulsifiers, thickeners, and preservatives that are not SCD-legal. Ingredients like maltodextrin, starches, or guar gum are often used and must be avoided.
- Distilled Vinegar: While some distilled vinegars might be allowed depending on the source, it can be difficult to verify its compliance. Homemade vinegar is a safer option.
The Solution: Homemade SCD-Compliant Mayonnaise
The good news is that mayonnaise itself is not inherently illegal. An SCD-compliant version can be made at home using only approved ingredients. Making your own also gives you complete control over the quality of the oil and prevents any illegal additives from sneaking into your diet. The process is quick and simple, requiring only a few legal components.
Homemade SCD Mayonnaise Recipe
Here is a simple recipe for SCD-legal mayonnaise that can be made in a blender or food processor:
Ingredients:
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice or SCD-legal white vinegar
- 1/4 tsp dry mustard powder
- 1 cup light olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for flavor; start with less if preferred)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Add the egg, lemon juice, mustard powder, and honey (if using) to a food processor or blender.
- Process the mixture for about 10 seconds until well combined.
- With the machine running, very slowly drizzle the oil through the top opening in a thin, steady stream. This is the most critical step for emulsification.
- Continue to blend until the mixture thickens into a creamy, mayonnaise-like consistency. This may take a few minutes.
- Season with salt to your liking and pulse a few more times to combine.
- Transfer to a glass jar, seal tightly, and refrigerate for up to 10-14 days.
Legal vs. Illegal Mayonnaise Ingredients
| Ingredient Category | SCD-Legal Options | Prohibited Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Oil | Light Olive Oil, Avocado Oil, Sunflower Oil, Safflower Oil | Canola Oil, Corn Oil, Soybean Oil |
| Sweeteners | Raw Honey (in small amounts), Saccharin | Sugar, Corn Syrup, Molasses, Fructose, Sucrose |
| Thickeners | None (emulsification is natural) | Starches, Modified Food Starch, Gums (Guar, Carrageenan) |
| Emulsifiers/Additives | Egg Yolks (from legal eggs) | Soy Lecithin, Calcium Disodium EDTA, Preservatives |
| Vinegar | White Vinegar, Cider Vinegar | Balsamic Vinegar |
Safely Introducing Homemade Mayonnaise
For those just starting the SCD, particularly with severe symptoms, it is recommended to begin with an introductory diet for a few days, focusing on very simple, easily digested foods. Homemade mayonnaise is typically introduced in later stages, after more foundational foods have been tolerated well. When you do introduce it, pay close attention to your body's response, and if any symptoms arise, re-evaluate and consider reintroducing at a later time. A food journal can be a valuable tool for tracking how your body reacts to new additions to your diet.
Conclusion
For individuals on the SCD, the answer to the question "Is mayonnaise allowed on a SCD diet?" is nuanced. The commercial mayonnaise found in grocery stores is not allowed due to its illegal ingredients, which can worsen inflammation and gut symptoms. However, a homemade version, crafted with compliant oils, eggs, and seasonings, is a perfectly acceptable and delicious way to enjoy this condiment. This flexibility allows those following the restrictive diet to still enjoy a wide range of flavors and meals without compromising their health goals. Always remember to read labels meticulously and, when in doubt, make it yourself to ensure it's truly SCD-legal.
