Gastrointestinal Health: The Elimination Diet Flashcards
Q: What is the elimination diet?
A: The elimination diet is a cost-effective way to identify food allergies or intolerances by removing suspected foods, monitoring symptoms, and then reintroducing the foods to confirm sensitivity.
Q: What are the common problematic foods that may cause immune reactions in an elimination diet?
A: Common problematic foods include gluten, dairy, corn, soy, eggs, nuts, beef, pork, yeast, citrus, nightshades, chocolate, and coffee.
Q: What happens during Stage 1 (Detox) of the elimination diet?
A: In Stage 1 (Days 1–2), increase intake of fruits, vegetables, gluten-free whole grains, healthy fats, water, and herbal teas while removing processed foods, confectionery, chocolate, additives, and caffeine.
Q: What is the main objective of Stage 2 (Elimination) in the elimination diet?
A: In Stage 2 (Days 3–14), all suspected foods are removed for 2 weeks. If symptoms do not improve by the third week, other possible triggers should be considered.
Q: What is the process for reintroducing foods in Stage 3 of the elimination diet?
A: In Stage 3 (Day 15 onwards), reintroduce one food at a time, eating it 2–3 times a day for 1–3 days. If symptoms appear, remove the food and wait for symptoms to disappear before testing another food.
Q: What should be done if a food causes a reaction during Stage 3 of the elimination diet?
A: If a food causes a reaction, it should be removed from the diet and avoided for 3 months before being challenged again.
Q: How should a food be treated if no reaction occurs during Stage 3 of the elimination diet?
A: If no reaction occurs, the food can be safely kept in the diet for the rest of the programme.
