Dietary Approaches in the Management of Adrenoleukodystrophy: Evidence Summary for Nutritional Tips.

Background

Adrenoleukodystrophy is a rare, inherited X-linked disease related to mutations in the ABCD1 gene. Peroxisomal β-oxidation is impaired, underpinning the tissue accumulation of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs), especially in the central nervous system (i.e., the white matter and axons), adrenal glands, and testes. VLCFA accumulation contributes to oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and progressive demyelination, leading to severe neurological sequelae. Though gene therapies and drug development are advancing, dietary management may still play a crucial role in modulating lipid metabolism and mitigating disease progression.

Methods

A narrative review of studies published up to May 2025 in major scientific databases was conducted, focusing on biochemical and clinical outcomes, including VLCFA plasma modulation and nutritional status.

Results

VLCFA restriction alone has shown limited efficacy due to the counteractive effect of endogenous synthesis. "Lorenzo's Oil" inhibits VLCFA elongation, yet with inconsistent clinical benefits. Novel dietary strategies, such as the "Bambino Diet" and innovative dietary supplements similar to Lorenzo's Oil, composed of glyceryl trioleate, glyceryl trierucate, and antioxidants, provide promising biochemical effects, such as reducing VLCFA plasma levels and improving lipid profiles. Malnutrition risk is also increased in X-ALD patients, underscoring the need for personalized nutritional interventions.

Conclusions

Dietary strategies are one of the pillars of X-ALD management, to be further combined with pharmacological, gene therapies, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Future research should refine emerging therapies, assess long-term effects, and develop personalized nutritional strategies.