Quick answer: This is the protocol I commonly recommend to my patients, personalized for each person. It runs about 120 days: start the elimination diet with gut-lining support, add anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial support, then microbiome support, then digestive enzyme and probiotic support, and finally reintroduce foods. Supplement choices and doses are set with your provider.
How the schedule works
Each individual is unique and may need changes, but these components usually stay the same. Supplement products and doses are personalized and discussed in a visit. Overview of the phases: the four-phase approach.
Days 1–30: Start the elimination diet
Remove potential trigger foods (see foods to avoid) and begin gut-lining support.
Days 31–50: Anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial support
Continue the elimination diet and gut-lining support, and add supplements that focus on inflammation and microbial balance.
Days 51–80: Microbiome support
Continue the diet and foundations; finish the anti-microbial phase; begin probiotic support, which may include Saccharomyces boulardii.
Days 81–110: Digestive support
Add digestive enzymes to help break down proteins, carbohydrates and fats, plus probiotic support.
Days 111–120: Finish and reintroduce
Finish supplements and begin reintroducing eliminated foods one at a time, using a food diary. See reintroducing foods.
Other supplements sometimes considered
- Caprylic acid
- Herbal formulas traditionally used for parasites (such as wormwood, black walnut, clove, goldenseal and garlic); these can interact with medications and are not for pregnancy
- Betaine HCl, only under professional guidance
Why personalization matters
Supplements can interact with medications and conditions. Please don’t start this protocol without working with a provider.
Gut health and healthy aging
A structured, phased approach supports the gut lining, microbiome and digestion, the foundation for lower inflammation as you age.
When to see a naturopathic doctor
- Ongoing bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation
- Food reactions that seem to be multiplying
- Fatigue, skin flares or joint aches alongside gut symptoms
- You want a personalized gut plan instead of guessing
See a medical provider promptly for blood in your stool, black stools, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, fever, or trouble swallowing.
Want help finding the root of your gut symptoms?
A free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Kneessi. No cost, no obligation. In-office in Odenton, MD or by telehealth.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Leaky Gut Protocol?
About 120 days, personalized for each person.
Can I do the protocol without a provider?
I recommend working with a provider, because supplements can interact with medications.
When do I reintroduce foods?
Near the end, around days 111–120.
Are herbal anti-microbials safe?
They can interact with medications and aren’t for pregnancy. Use with guidance.
Sources
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace an individual evaluation. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting supplements or changing medications, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or managing a health condition.
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