Let it go...
Why should you do an elimination diet?
Many people dealing with weight issues may be sensitive to foods they are eating. Wheat and Dairy are the top allergens. When you have food sensitivities your body is in a constant state of inflammation when you are eating those foods. http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-10179/what-everyone-should-know-about-inflammation-a-cardiologist-explains.html
But how do you know you have food sensitivities? You may have constant sinus drainage, acid reflux, bowel issues (diarrhea or constipation), fatigue, poor sleep, big belly, or achy joints.
What foods can cause this? Anything you may be sensitive to, but primarily dairy, wheat, corn, soy, eggs, nuts ( usually ground nuts like peanuts) and sugar.
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-9484/why-wheat-is-ruining-your-life-the-author-of-wheat-belly-explains.html
http://drhyman.com/blog/2012/01/27/inflammation-how-to-cool-the-fire-inside-you-thats-making-you-fat-and-diseased/
www.theamericanchiropractor.com/leakygutNov2013.
Doing a 1 week or 3 week elimination diet can help you detect which foods you are sensitive to. This may vary depending on your motivation. You will get better results with the 3 week elimination and you will probably get a bonus of quick added weight loss. ( This is not a calorie reduction diet. You should not be hungry and should not limit other foods)
How does this work? Leave wheat, dairy ,eggs, soy, corn, nuts and sugar out of your diet for the given period of time. That means reading labels and understanding that some foods go by other names. Contact me if you are not sure.
After the designated time you would add back one food at a time, waiting 3-4 days between adding something else back. Keep track of how you feel throughout the day that you add it back and for the next few days. If you have no effects, that is probably not a sensitive food for you.
Many people feel bad ( flu like, headache, tired) the first few days of the elimination phase. This is your body detoxing from those foods that are bothering you. Drink plenty of water and get rest. Don't give in to cravings. Get support. After about three days you will start to feel amazing. Sometimes you feel so good that you don't want to add things back. Go ahead and finish the reintroduction so you will know what to ultimately avoid.
If you have questions about this process, please contact me at www.joy-riddle.healthcoach.integrativenutrition.com
Books that will help:
Dr.Mark Hyman 10 Day Detox
Dr. William Davis Wheat Belly 30-Minute (or Less) Cookbook
