the elimination diet
The Institute of Functional Medicine Elimination Diet protocol was created to help calm down inflammation and determine possible food sensitivities related to persistent and uncomfortable symptoms. These symptoms may include GI problems, skin issues, fatigue, brain fog, insomnia, headaches and joint pain. If symptoms are present all the time, the root cause is likely to be food.
There is a difference between allergies and sensitivities. Allergies cause an immediate reaction, which may include flushing, swelling or itching. Sensitivities are typically delayed but can be equally miserable. It can be very difficult to determine which foods are the culprit in a delayed reaction, as you would have eaten several foods in the days prior to the symptoms. (“Was it the oil they used at the restaurant? Or was there something in the rice?) Long recipes can make things even more difficult. (“Was it the eggs? The coconut flour? The nuts?”) It is easy to drive yourself crazy. Following the Elimination Diet can help provide answers in as little as 10 days.
The IFM Elimination Diet:
Removes all irritants for a period of time.
Common irritants include dairy, gluten, egg, peanut and soy.
Irritants specific to you can be revealed by eliminating them and keeping track of how you feel.
Foods are re-introduced slowly to determine which ones create symptoms.
The goal is to determine IF foods are a problem for you, and if they are, which ones you need to eliminate for a longer period of time.
At your initial coaching session, we will tailor the IFM diet to your tastes and lifestyle. We will follow up for results and future recommendations. I am also available for moral support, as this diet can be challenging but rewarding! It is advised to try this diet at a time when you are not traveling, or during holidays. You will need to stick to it religiously for 10 days to three weeks. The cost is $75 for the initial session, and follow-ups are $30 (30 minutes), $45 (45 minutes) or $60 (60 minutes).
