Everything You Need To Know About Autoimmune Diets

This is Part 1 of a two-part series on anti-inflammatory autoimmune diets.

The GAPS Diet

The GAPS diet is a protocol developed by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, a neurologist and nutritionist specializing in autism disorders, ADD/ADHD, dyspraxia, dyslexia and schizophrenia. Her method is aimed at treating the root cause, compromised gut health, through nutrition and diet. GAPS diet is a stepped program that is grain-free and very high in fat. The introductory period of this diet is difficult, however, don’t give up! You start by making and eating A LOT of old-fashioned grandma’s bone broth (chicken or beef). 

Then you methodically move to more variety of whole foods. The reward is worth the effort. This will propel you off the standard American diet and into a whole foods program for a healthier way of life. Over time, on average 2 years, gut flora balance shifts, immune system strengthens, inflammation lessens, and you do feel better!

Paleo Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol works to reduce inflammation in the intestines.  By attacking the issue via the gut, inflammation is calmed throughout the body.  This protocol is similar to GAPS, but more strict for the long term, in a simple YES/NO framework. This diet excludes grains (gluten and others), all dairy, legumes, eggs, nuts & seeds, and includes good quality proteins, along with plenty of veggies and fruits and healthy fats.   It is recommended that in order to see results, you must stick to this for at least 6-8 weeks, but it normally takes about 3 months without cheating! People do feel MUCH better on this course, than on the standard American diet.

The Wahl’s Protocol

I learned about this protocol at a National Association of Nutrition Professionals Conference. It is a simple, eloquent and do-able program for anyone suffering from an autoimmune issue including MS, Lupus, Hashimoto’s Disease and many more. Dr. Wahls developed MS and was able to return to walking and cycling from being in a wheelchair.

This diet is comprised of eating entirely organic food and focuses on eating LOTS OF vegetables, some fruits, along with Paleo diet. I like this diet because it gives you a simple way to categorize your veggies to make sure you’re getting the ones that are most helpful. For example, Dr. Wahl likes you to eat 2 cups of sulfur-rich veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts) per day, 2 cups of green leafy veggies (kale, swiss chard, spinach, lettuces) per day and 2 cups of dark color other veggies (berries, beets, carrots, etc.)  per day, along with good quality proteins and fats. Easy, right? She encourages juicing to help you along.

Try This: Start Your Autoimmune Diet and Decrease Inflammation with This Salad

DELICIOUS SALAD
3 large beets, peeled and shredded {makes 2-3 cups}
½ head green cabbage, finely chopped {makes about 2 cups}
1 bunch dinosaur kale, de-stemmed and shredded {makes about 2 cups}
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
zest of 1 lemon {~1 Tbl}

DRESSING
2 lemons, juiced
1/3 cup Walnuts
1 Tbl fresh ginger, grated
4 Tbl raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar
salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend for 1-2 minutes. Toss all ingredients to combine. Enjoy!

In conclusion, if you think an autoimmune protocol would be right for you, contact our holistic nutritionists. We specialize in meeting you where you are, and taking you to a more whole, nourishing diet one step at a time.