AutoImmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) is a diet focused on helping those with autoimmune diseases. It is very similar to a paleo diet with a few additions. Generally the idea behind cutting out these foods is to eventually reintroduce them to your diet, to test for side effects. The general rule of thumb is to cut out these items from your diet for 90 days before reintroducing them slowly.

What foods are removed in addition to a paleo / primal diet?:

  • Eggs
  • Nightshades (like tomatoes, peppers, eggplant...)
  • Nuts
  • Seeds

Why are eggs removed on the autoimmune protocol?:

Eggs are designed to house a baby chick, and because of this there are certain mechanisms in place to protect the egg and baby chick. These mechanisms can cause issues for people with autoimmune diseases. 13 out of the 14 proteins found in the egg white have anti-microbial properties, these can adversely affect someone who may eat them in high quantities or already have a compromised digestive system. The protein lysozyme can bind with proteins like ovomucoid or ovoinhibitor and inhibit trypsin, a protease enzyme, from doing its job of digesting proteins. Even more hazardous, some of these proteins can pass through the intestinal wall and aggravate autoimmune problems or leaky gut.

Why are nightshades removed from AIP?:

Nightshades, like eggs, are designed with natural defense systems. In their case they contain alkaloids which can cause similar problems as mentioned above. A lot of people suffering from autoimmune diseases have found that nightshades exacerbate their symptoms. What are some examples of nightshades? Tomatoes, potatoes, bell peppers, pimentos, tomatillos, chili peppers, eggplant, ashwagandha, goji berries and red pepper spices. Avoiding nightshades can be difficult, as they are so common in our diet. 

*Note: foods like sweet potatoes and peppercorns may sound like they are nightshades, but are not and are okay when eating on the AIP.

Why are nuts and seeds removed from AIP?:

There is a lot of discussion as why those with autoimmune diseases should remove nuts and seeds from their diet. One theory is that nuts and seeds contain high amounts of Omega-6. Especially for those with autoimmune conditions, but also for those without, your Omega-6 and Omega-3 should stay within a fairly balanced range. Eating large amounts of nuts and seeds could throw your levels out of balance. Another thought has to do with the fact that nuts and seeds are one of the most common allergens. When healing a leaky gut and restoring your digestive system to normal, removing irritants is a main priority. This is why AIP suggests that you remove these foods for a certain amount of time and the access their affect on your system.

How do I reintroduce foods after I have avoided them for 90 days or more?

Be very cautious with your reintroductions. Choose one food at a time, add this food into your diet for three consecutive days and then stop eating it again. Observe your symptoms, or lack thereof. By slowly focusing on one food group at a time you will know which one is affecting you. If there are no problems with a certain food group you may consider adding it in to your normal diet.