What is the Origin of Autoimmune Protocol Diet?

The concept originated from clinical and research observations linking gut permeability, dietary factors, and the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. The "Autoimmune Protocol" title clearly defines its purpose as a systematic set of rules for managing an overactive immune response. This dietary strategy draws upon the foundational principles of ancestral health and functional medicine to address systemic inflammation.

What is the Mechanism of Autoimmune Protocol Diet?

The primary mechanism of the AIP diet centers on reducing intestinal permeability, often referred to as "leaky gut," and decreasing the overall inflammatory burden on the immune system. By removing common irritants, the diet aims to heal the gut lining, thereby limiting the exposure of the immune system to undigested food particles and microbial products. This reduction in immune activation is theorized to decrease the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are often implicated in the exacerbation of autoimmune symptoms and hormonal imbalances.

Autoimmune Protocol Diet

Meaning

The Autoimmune Protocol Diet, often abbreviated as AIP, is a specialized, elimination-style dietary framework designed to help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation in individuals with autoimmune conditions. This approach involves a strict initial elimination phase of foods thought to be common inflammatory triggers, such as grains, legumes, nightshades, and certain food additives. The subsequent reintroduction phase is carefully monitored to identify specific food sensitivities that may be contributing to immune system dysregulation. It is considered a clinical tool for modulating the gut-immune axis and supporting overall hormonal and metabolic balance.