For people living with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease, food can affect how their symptoms appear. This is where the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet can be helpful.
Below, our rheumatologists in Hobart, Indiana are going to explain how the AIP diet works, and whether it’s something you might want to consider.
How does an AIP diet work?
The AIP diet has two main phases. These are elimination and reintroduction.
During elimination, you remove foods that may cause inflammation. This gives your gut time to heal. Most people stay in this phase for about 30 to 90 days, and some see changes in only a few weeks.
When you are in this phase, you will stop eating grains, legumes, dairy, eggs, nightshades (like tomatoes and peppers), nuts, seeds, coffee, alcohol, processed foods, and added sugar. Some people also stop using common pain relievers like ibuprofen, since these can irritate the gut lining.
Instead, you will get more whole, nutrient-rich foods, like vegetables, high-quality meat, bone broth, and fermented items. These support your gut health and help balance your immune system.
Once your symptoms improve, you move into the reintroduction phase. This is where you add one food back at a time over several days.
Start small, then work up to a full serving. If symptoms return, you take it back out. This helps you learn which foods your body tolerates and which ones trigger issues, so you can avoid only what is necessary.
Together, the two phases create a personalized approach. Elimination gives your system a reset. Reintroduction gives you control and helps you build a diet that suits your needs.
Does it work?
Many people say that they feel better on the AIP diet. They report less joint pain, more energy, and clearer thinking.
One study found that people with inflammatory bowel disease had fewer symptoms after starting the diet. Another small study of women with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis showed reduced inflammation and better quality of life after 10 weeks.
You should keep in mind that AIP diet is not a cure-all. It works best when followed closely with proper support.
Because it is strict, it requires patience and guidance. This is exactly why you should consult with a licensed rheumatologist in Hobart, Indiana before starting.
What makes an AIP diet different?
Unlike general “clean eating” or wellness trends, the AIP diet is designed to calm the immune system. It is structured to help you find and avoid specific food triggers. It helps you better understand your body and build long-term habits that support your health.
Because the elimination phase removes many foods from your diet, it can be tough to stick to, especially in social settings or when others around you eat differently. Staying in this phase too long can also lead to nutrient deficiencies.
This is why reintroduction is key. It helps you find balance and avoid cutting more than necessary. Working with a rheumatologist in Hobart, Indiana is a great way to make sure you’re getting the right nutrients throughout the process.
Should you try the AIP diet?
If your current treatment is not helping enough, the AIP diet may be worth trying. It is a structured diet plan that removes common inflammatory foods and replaces them with options that nourish your gut and immune system.
However, it is not something to be done casually. Medical guidance is crucial if you want to follow this diet.
Doctors usually recommend trying it for 30 to 60 days. That is long enough to see changes without being too restrictive for too long. Some people feel better in as little as three weeks.
Because the diet can be very limited at first, it is easy to miss out on nutrients if you are not careful. Therefore, medical support is necessary during both the elimination and reintroduction phases.
Looking for an Affordable Rheumatologist in Hobart, Indiana?
Are you looking for a qualified rheumatologist in Hobart, Indiana who can guide you through the AIP diet? If so, our rheumatologists at 219 Health Network are here to explain each step and create a diet plan that works for your body and lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.