What is Phase 1 of the Autoimmune Protocol Diet? A Comprehensive Overview

Small studies on the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet have shown significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life for people with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. This success begins with a strict but temporary nutritional strategy known as the elimination phase. So, what is phase 1 of the autoimmune protocol diet? It's the initial, most restrictive part of the plan designed to reduce inflammation and identify individual food triggers.

Quick Summary

An overview of the autoimmune protocol diet's initial elimination phase. It details which foods to strictly avoid and which nutrient-dense foods to focus on, outlining the duration and core purpose of this restrictive period for managing autoimmune conditions and supporting gut health.

Key Points

• Elimination, Not a Permanent State: Phase 1 is a temporary and strict elimination period, not a permanent diet, designed to give the body a reset and reduce inflammation.

• Extensive Food Exclusions: All grains, legumes, dairy, eggs, nuts, seeds, and nightshade vegetables are removed, along with processed foods, sugar, alcohol, and coffee.

• Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods: The diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods like high-quality meats, fish, non-nightshade vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats.

• Gut Healing is a Core Goal: By removing potential irritants, Phase 1 allows the intestinal lining to repair, which is believed to be a key factor in managing autoimmune symptoms.

• Supported by Lifestyle Practices: Complementary practices like stress reduction, adequate sleep, and gentle exercise are crucial for maximizing healing during this phase.

• Duration is Individualized: The length of Phase 1 varies from 30 to 90 days, or until significant symptom improvement is observed, rather than following a fixed timeline.

Understanding the Autoimmune Protocol Diet

The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet, an adaptation of the Paleo diet, aims to help manage symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases. It is based on the idea that certain foods can contribute to increased gut permeability, or “leaky gut,” which can trigger an immune response and lead to inflammation that worsens autoimmune conditions. The AIP follows a three-phase structure: elimination, reintroduction, and maintenance. Phase 1 serves as the starting point for resetting the body and identifying later food triggers.

The Elimination Phase: What is Phase 1 of the Autoimmune Protocol Diet?

Phase 1, the elimination phase, involves temporarily removing foods and substances known to potentially cause inflammation, immune reactions, or gut imbalances. This provides the gut and body a chance to heal from potential irritants. This phase typically lasts between 30 and 90 days, or until significant and sustained symptom reduction is observed. Some individuals may see improvements within a few weeks.

Foods to Eliminate in Phase 1

Phase 1 is highly restrictive and requires the temporary removal of several food groups, with the aim of reintroducing them later to identify personal triggers. Foods to exclude include:

• All grains
• All legumes
• All dairy products
• All eggs
• All nuts and seeds, including their oils, butters, and flours, and seed-derived spices.
• Nightshade vegetables, and spices made from them.
• Refined and processed sugars
• Industrial seed oils
• Food additives
• Coffee and alcohol
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Foods to Eat During the Elimination Phase

Despite the restrictions, the focus is on consuming nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory whole foods. Permitted foods include:

• High-quality proteins
• An abundance of non-nightshade vegetables
• Certain fruits in moderation
• Healthy fats
• Fermented foods
• Bone broth
• Herbs and non-seed spices

Comparison: AIP Phase 1 vs. Standard Diets

To highlight the restrictive nature of the AIP elimination phase, compare it against a standard Western diet and even the more generalized Paleo diet.

Feature	Standard Western Diet	Paleo Diet	AIP Phase 1
Grains	Common staple (bread, pasta)	Excluded	Excluded
Legumes	Often included (beans, soy)	Excluded	Excluded
Dairy	Common staple (milk, cheese)	Excluded	Excluded
Eggs	Included	Included	Excluded
Nuts & Seeds	Included	Included	Excluded
Nightshades	Common staple (tomatoes, potatoes)	Included	Excluded
Sugar/Additives	High usage	Avoided	Avoided
Coffee	Common daily drink	Often limited or included	Excluded
Processed Oils	Common usage (canola, corn)	Avoided	Avoided
Fermented Foods	Minimal intake	Allowed	Encouraged

Complementary Lifestyle Factors During Phase 1

A holistic approach enhances the AIP elimination phase. Focusing on lifestyle factors that reduce stress and support the immune system is important.

• Stress Management: Techniques like meditation or spending time in nature can help.
• Adequate Sleep: Quality sleep is vital for the body's repair.
• Moderate Exercise: Gentle movement supports circulation and reduces stress.

Conclusion: Looking Beyond the Elimination Phase

Phase 1 of the Autoimmune Protocol diet is a powerful, temporary tool for individuals addressing autoimmune symptoms through dietary changes. By removing potentially inflammatory foods and focusing on nutrient-dense options, the body is given an opportunity to recover. This phase is not a long-term diet but a way to identify triggers. After symptom improvement, the reintroduction phase follows, where foods are tested individually. This systematic process helps create a personalized, sustainable diet to support long-term health.

Autoimmune Wellness is an authoritative resource with additional information on the AIP diet and lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Phase 1 of the AIP diet last?

Phase 1 typically lasts between 30 and 90 days, or until you experience a significant improvement in your autoimmune symptoms. The exact duration varies for each individual.

Can I eat eggs during the elimination phase of the AIP diet?

No, eggs are not allowed during the elimination phase. This includes both egg whites and egg yolks, as some people with autoimmune issues can react to proteins found in them.

Why are nightshade vegetables excluded in AIP Phase 1?

Nightshade vegetables like tomatoes and peppers are excluded because they contain alkaloids that can be problematic for some individuals with autoimmune conditions, potentially contributing to gut irritation.

What kind of oil can I use for cooking in Phase 1?

In Phase 1, you can use healthy fats and oils like olive oil, avocado oil, and coconut oil. Processed and industrial seed oils like canola and soybean oil are excluded.

Is coffee allowed on the AIP diet?

No, coffee is not allowed during the elimination phase. Coffee beans are seeds, and some people may react to them. Coffee is often one of the first items to be reintroduced in later stages to test for tolerance.

What is the purpose of reintroducing foods after Phase 1?

The purpose of the reintroduction phase is to systematically test foods, one by one, to identify your specific triggers. This allows you to create a personalized, long-term diet that avoids only the foods that cause you issues.

What if I don't feel better after completing Phase 1?

If you don't experience a noticeable improvement after 30 to 90 days, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian. They can help determine if other factors are at play or if additional adjustments are needed.