One of the most important components of my health journey has been the elimination diet. Specifically, The Myers Way Comprehensive Elimination Diet.
No, it isn’t a diet to lose weight although that may well happen.
The elimination diet is a dedicated process of eliminating foods and re-introducing the foods back into your diet so that you can discover what food sensitivities you have.
Sounds simple and there are many “versions” available on the internet and in books. 20 years ago I did a modified version of the diet and discovered a few obvious foods that caused skin sensitivity and other issues. But life happened and it wasn’t until I was faced with serious skin irritation and rashes plus constant gastrointestinal upset that I decided to revisit the elimination diet and get to the bottom of it.
Leaky Gut
Leaky gut is a term a lot of people are talking about- that and gluten sensitivity. Everything I read fit my case. So I read more. I have both sarcoidosis and lymphedema so I am prone to leaky gut and food sensitivities (although some would argue which came first). Nevertheless, I was finally getting the to bottom of it- figuring out what might be going on and what I could do to get a handle on it.
In my research I discovered Dr. Amy Myers and followed her protocol. My health has improved significantly since going on her version of the elimination diet and discovering all the foods I needed to eliminate. It was a process that took time but I decided to embark on this food journey mindfully and intentionally. Said differently, I was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired and that was my incentive.
Autoimmune
I encourage anyone who has an auto-immune disorder or who struggles with weight management issues (too much weight, too little weight) to go on the elimination diet. Once you determine what foods will feed and nourish your body, additional supports to your wellness plan will become easier to follow and you will receive better results. And please, before you go on that cleanse, do the elimination diet first. It sorta makes no sense to do a cleanse and the introduce the same foods back in, not knowing what your body really wants!
Ultimately, the goal is to feel better- to be able to live each day to the fullest- and that is what can happen by taking a few empowered steps toward getting your health back. No, I am not a doctor. I am a wellness coach. So always check with your primary physician first before you start any new health regimen. Once you get the go ahead, put your faith in another doctor. Amy Myers, MD will not disappoint.
Want to know more about how I manage my health and help others do the same? Take a look at my Essential Wellness Wheel.