What is the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet?
The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) is a specialized, multi-phase elimination diet and lifestyle plan designed for individuals with autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis. The primary goal is to reduce inflammation and heal the gut lining, which is theorized to become permeable (often called 'leaky gut') in autoimmune disease, allowing immune-triggering substances to enter the bloodstream.
The two phases of AIP
Elimination Phase
This phase is highly restrictive and is followed for a minimum of 30–90 days, or until a noticeable reduction in symptoms occurs. Foods to be eliminated include:
- Grains: All grains, including gluten-containing and gluten-free varieties.
- Legumes: All legumes, including beans, lentils, peanuts, and soy.
- Dairy: All dairy products, from milk and cheese to butter and whey.
- Eggs: Whole eggs and egg whites.
- Nuts and Seeds: This includes seed-based spices and cocoa.
- Nightshade Vegetables: Tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplant.
- Processed Foods & Refined Sugars: Includes most sweeteners, food additives, and processed vegetable oils.
Reintroduction Phase
Once symptoms improve, foods are slowly and systematically reintroduced one at a time over several days to identify individual triggers. If a food causes a reaction, it is removed again. The ultimate goal is to return to the broadest diet possible while permanently avoiding only the confirmed trigger foods.
What is a Standard Elimination Diet?
An elimination diet is a more general dietary approach for identifying specific food intolerances or sensitivities. It is typically shorter in duration and less restrictive than AIP, targeting foods based on the individual's symptoms rather than a broad, autoimmune-focused protocol. People with conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), eczema, or migraines may use it to pinpoint dietary triggers.
The two phases of a standard elimination diet
Elimination Phase
This phase can last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, during which common food allergens or suspected trigger foods are removed. These can include gluten, dairy, corn, soy, and eggs, but are often tailored based on the individual's history.
Reintroduction Phase
Similar to AIP, foods are added back one at a time. The reaction to each food is monitored carefully to see if symptoms return. This helps create a long-term diet plan that excludes only the confirmed trigger foods.
Comparison Table: AIP vs. Elimination Diet
| Feature | Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) | Standard Elimination Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | To calm the immune system, reduce widespread inflammation, and heal the gut lining. | To identify specific foods causing adverse reactions like digestive issues or skin problems. |
| Target Population | Individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto's or Rheumatoid Arthritis. | Individuals with suspected food sensitivities or intolerances, like those with IBS, eczema, or migraines. |
| Dietary Scope | A highly comprehensive and strict elimination phase, removing numerous food groups including grains, legumes, dairy, nightshades, nuts, and seeds. | Often less restrictive, removing a smaller number of suspected trigger foods or common allergens. |
| Elimination Duration | Typically 30–90 days or more, lasting until significant symptom improvement is achieved. | Usually 2–6 weeks, a shorter period designed for rapid symptom assessment. |
| Reintroduction Focus | Methodical, structured reintroduction to identify which foods are tolerated and which trigger an immune response. | Systematic reintroduction to observe for return of specific, non-life-threatening symptoms. |
| Underlying Theory | Addresses the concept of 'leaky gut' and its link to systemic inflammation and autoimmune activity. | Focuses on pinpointing specific food sensitivities or intolerances. |
| Expert Guidance | Highly recommended to work with a practitioner, given the severity of the conditions and the risk of nutritional deficiencies. | Often recommended to consult a doctor or dietitian, especially for children or those with complex symptoms. |
Potential Risks and Considerations
Both diets come with risks, and professional supervision is highly advised. The restrictive nature of both can lead to nutrient deficiencies if not properly managed, and the social challenges of a highly restrictive diet can be difficult. A prolonged elimination phase without reintroduction can become an issue, which is why a structured reintroduction phase is critical to identify the widest variety of foods an individual can tolerate. It is important to note that elimination diets are for identifying sensitivities, not for diagnosing true food allergies, which can be life-threatening. Always consult a healthcare provider before beginning any restrictive diet.
Conclusion
While sharing the core principle of using elimination and reintroduction to identify problematic foods, the difference between AIP and elimination diet lies primarily in their scope, target audience, and degree of restriction. The AIP is a comprehensive protocol for managing autoimmune diseases and systemic inflammation, while a general elimination diet serves as a diagnostic tool for more common food sensitivities and intolerances. For those with diagnosed autoimmune conditions, the stricter AIP approach may be necessary to address underlying immune dysfunction. Conversely, for individuals with unexplained but less severe symptoms, a targeted elimination diet may be sufficient. In either case, working with a healthcare professional ensures the diet is implemented safely and effectively, minimizing risks and maximizing the potential for symptom relief and improved health.
Visit Healthline for a deeper look into elimination diets and their uses.
