Schedule of the Elimination Diet

This elimination diet will involve removing specific foods or food groups from the diet for 6 weeks, followed by a gradual reintroduction of these foods to identify potential triggers of symptoms or health conditions. This approach can be useful in identifying food sensitivities, intolerances, and allergies, which can have a significant impact on health and well-being.

Phase 1: Elimination

During the elimination phase of the diet, you will remove potential trigger foods from your diet for 6 weeks. This allows your body to heal and reduces inflammation, which can help to resolve symptoms. The next learning module will cover the exact foods to eliminate.

It’s important to read food labels carefully and avoid any ingredients that are derived from the foods that are not allowed during the elimination phase.

Phase 2: Reintroduction

After the elimination phase, you will gradually reintroduce food one food at a time, in small amounts, to identify potential trigger foods. You are reintroducing the foods that you removed in the elimination phase. You still eat as you were during the elimination diet, whole foods dietary approach, you are now just including 1 new food from the eliminated list. This will take anywhere from 4-6 weeks.

On the day you try an eliminated food for the first time, start with just a small amount in the morning. If you don’t notice any symptoms that day, eat two larger portions the next day. After reintroducing the new food for these 2 days, remove it from the diet again, and wait for three days to see if you notice any symptoms returning such as bloating, headaches, rash, or changes in bowel function.

It’s important to use a food diary during the reintroduction phase, to help you track your symptoms and identify your trigger foods. Keep a record of any symptoms that occur after reintroducing the food, including the time and severity of the symptoms. If you experience severe symptoms, such as anaphylaxis, seek medical attention immediately.

Repeat with other foods. Repeat the process with other foods until all potential trigger foods have been reintroduced.

Phase 3: Maintenance

After completing the elimination and reintroduction phases, you will have identified your trigger foods and can modify your diet accordingly. It’s important to continue to avoid your trigger foods to prevent symptoms from recurring. Based on your individual needs and sensitivities, develop a personalized diet plan that includes foods that are safe for you to eat and avoids potential trigger foods. For some individuals, it may be necessary to eliminate trigger foods for a long period of time or even permanently. Some individuals will be able to consume those foods in moderation because of the overall anti-inflammatory effect the elimination diet has. I wouldn’t recommend to consume those foods often but most can enjoy every once in a while as a treat. Even after developing a personalized diet plan, continue to monitor your symptoms and make adjustments as needed. Listen to your body.