Who should go on an Elimination Diet?

People who experience or have the following symptoms will greatly benefit from going on this diet:

-weight gain / weight loss

-chronic migraines / headaches

-GERD

-diarrhea / constipation

-gas / bloating / nausea

-hair loss

-autoimmune diseases

-rheumatoid arthritis

-irritable bowel syndrome / disease

-chronic pain

-osteoporosis

-anemia

-seizures

-skin rashes

Can I go on the diet if I am pregnant or nursing?

We don't recommend doing this diet while pregnant, though eliminating gluten and dairy may improve your health and the health of the developing fetus. You can do a modified elimination diet while nursing. You do not want to detoxify while breastfeeding because the released toxins will migrate into your milk, so do not do the 2-day smoothie fast, though continue with green smoothies during each phase. You can certainly get plenty of nutrition from beans, whole grains, seeds, vegetables, and fruits, though we recommend adding in fish and meat during phase 1 if needed. Please make sure you are eating enough to support the extra calorie demand that breastfeeding puts on you. Please talk with your doctor for further information.

Can I put my child on this diet?

Yes, but do not do the first 2 days of green smoothies. Children need a consistent calorie intake, though you can still give them green smoothies throughout the diet. Please talk with your doctor more about this before beginning.

I am an athlete, how will I get enough nutrients and calories? 

You may want to add in wild salmon during Phase 1. Adding flax or chia seeds along with avocado is okay during the green smoothie fast. As long as you are eating enough calories (from all of the Phase 1 ok foods) you will be getting plenty of nutrients to fuel your activity level.  

Can I drink coffee or tea on the diet?

Wait to add coffee or tea until the challenge phase. Caffeine is a stimulate and affects liver detoxification. Herbal teas such as chamomile, mint, ginger, raspberry leaf, and nettle are fine.

What about herbs and spices, can I have those?

Yes you can have dried herbs and spices that are gluten-free. Penzeys spices are gluten-free. Please check with the manufacturer to make sure they are processed in a gluten-free facility. Of course all fresh herbs are in.

I am on day 10 - 12 and I feel no change. Should I be feeling different by now?

For some people it may take 21 to 60 days (and even longer) to detoxify from gluten and dairy and to begin to feel better.

Can I add in all citrus in Phase 2?

No just stick with lemons and limes. Some people react to oranges but not to lemons and limes. 

Please check back later, we'll have more questions and answers posted. Thanks!