The autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet is an elimination diet used to support individuals whose symptoms may be caused by specific foods. The goal of the diet is to identify which foods are causing a person’s symptoms. The AIP diet is split into two phases: elimination and reintroduction.
During the elimination phase, all foods suspected of causing inflammation are removed from the diet. These include grains, legumes, dairy, sugars, alcohol, nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, peppers), food additives, and others. Complete elimination of these foods is advised, especially when attempting to alleviate symptoms related to an autoimmune disease.
The diet for this phase includes nutrient-dense foods like:
To get the full benefit from the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet, the complete diet should be carefully followed for at least 30 days. For more information, refer to our foods to include and foods to exclude list.
Retest using Ixcela prior to the reintroduction phase to assess if the population and diversity of the gut has improved and ensure there is no dysbiosis (gut bacteria imbalance). Certain metabolites above or below optimal levels are commonly associated with dysbiosis. For example, low levels of indole-3-propionic acid (IPA) are often associated with “leaky gut.”
By reintroducing one food at a time, it is easy to identify which foods cause adverse effects and then avoid those foods or include them only as tolerated. We recommend using a food journal to record what you eat, how you feel, and which foods are well tolerated and which cause uncomfortable symptoms.
During the elimination phase of the AIP diet, use the menu below and its corresponding recipes (many of which are from the Ixcela Recipe Library) as a guide for incorporating new dishes into your routine. A wide variety of foods and recipes are included to provide options for each meal of the day. You can repeat these recipes in any order over the next 4–6 weeks or search the recipe library to find even more recipes that fit the autoimmune protocol. Swap meals and make changes as it fits your dietary preference and cooking ability. You can repeat meals, use leftovers, or simplify the ingredients. If you follow the menu provided, our shopping list will guide you through the grocery store so you can pick up everything you need and get started right away.
Download this blank template to create your own AIP menu.
For meal prep tips and tricks, check out Mastering Meal Prep.
Click here to download the PDF version of the example AIP menu
Click here to download the PDF version of the example AIP shopping list
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Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Shelby Burns has been in the fitness and nutrition industries for more than ten years. Shelby, who has personally struggled with gut issues, believes that exceptional wellness starts from within. Her passion for helping people prioritize their health shines through as she assists Ixcela clients in making diet and lifestyle shifts that result in renewed energy, better sleep, and improved digestion. |
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interested in learning more about Ixcela? Check out Ixcela’s test, to receive personalized nutrition, supplement, mindfulness, and fitness fitness recommendations based on the metabolites we test to improve energy, GI health, mood, and overall wellbeing.
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