What is the AIP diet?

The AIP diet (Autoimmune Protocol diet) is a type of elimination diet that aims to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms for people with autoimmune conditions. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body, causing chronic inflammation and damage.

How does the AIP diet work?

The AIP diet involves removing certain foods from the diet that are known to trigger an immune response and cause inflammation. These foods include:

• Grains (including gluten-containing grains)
• Legumes (such as beans, lentils, and peanuts)
• Nightshade vegetables (such as tomatoes, eggplant, and peppers)
• Dairy products
• Processed foods
• Refined sugars and sweeteners
• Alcohol
• Vegetable oils

In addition to removing these foods, the AIP diet also emphasizes nutrient-dense whole foods that are thought to support gut health and reduce inflammation. These foods include:

• Vegetables (excluding nightshades)
• Fruits
• Meat (including organ meats)
• Fish and seafood
• Fermented foods
• Bone broth
• Healthy fats (such as coconut oil, avocado, and olive oil)

How can a dietitian help with the AIP diet?

A dietitian can play a crucial role in helping individuals with autoimmune conditions follow the AIP diet in a safe and effective manner. Here are some ways that a dietitian can help:

1. Assessment: A dietitian can assess an individual's specific health needs, medical history, and nutritional status to determine if the AIP diet is appropriate for them.
2. Education: A dietitian can educate individuals about the AIP diet, including the foods to avoid and the nutrient-dense foods to include. They can also provide guidance on meal planning, food preparation, and recipe ideas.
3. Monitoring: A dietitian can monitor an individual's progress on the AIP diet and make adjustments as needed. They can also monitor for nutrient deficiencies and provide guidance on appropriate supplementation if necessary.
4. Support: A dietitian can provide emotional and practical support to individuals as they navigate the AIP diet. They can also help individuals overcome any challenges they may face, such as social situations or cravings for non-AIP foods.
5. Transition: A dietitian can help individuals transition off the AIP diet and reintroduce eliminated foods in a structured and systematic way to determine which foods may be triggering autoimmune symptoms.

Overall, working with a dietitian can help individuals with autoimmune conditions follow the AIP diet safely and effectively, improve symptoms, and achieve optimal health and wellbeing.