Evaluating Resistant Potato Starch to Improve Gut Symptoms and Quality of Life in Veterans with Gulf War Illness Aged 50 to 85

What this Trial Is About

Gulf War Illness GWI affects about 25-32% of the more than 700,000 coalition troops deployed during the First Gulf War, causing symptoms such as pain, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, skin problems, neurologic symptoms, and respiratory difficulties. GWI symptoms often persist without significant improvement over time, and treatments especially for gut-related symptoms are limited. This trial focuses on evaluating a dietary fiber prebiotic supplement to improve the quality of life for Veterans suffering from GWI, exploring how the gut microbiome may play a role in this condition. Participants in this phase II randomized clinical trial will be assigned to one of two groups one group will take a resistant starch RS prebiotic derived from potatoes daily for four weeks, with doses increasing from 4g to 10g, while the other group will continue their usual diet without changes. The resistant potato starch is designed to improve gut microbiota by increasing beneficial bacteria and related metabolites. The study will collect stool and serum samples and use health and dietary questionnaires to monitor effects. Throughout the study, participants will provide samples and complete questionnaires to assess changes in their gut microbiome and concentrations of short-chain fatty acids. Researchers will track improvements in GWI symptoms, overall health, quality of life, and how well participants tolerate the prebiotic. The study will monitor participants over two years to evaluate both biological and clinical outcomes related to the intervention.

Resistant Potato Starch to Alleviate GWI