What Is the Gaps Diet?

The GAPS diet is a nutritional protocol designed to heal and seal the gut lining. It was developed by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride and stands for Gut and Psychology Syndrome. It is based on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet, which was developed by Dr. Sidney Valentine Haas in the 1920s for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases.

Benefits of the Gaps Diet

The GAPS diet is said to help with a variety of digestive and mental health issues, including autism, ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and dyslexia. It is also said to help with autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue, and skin conditions. The goal of the GAPS diet is to heal and seal the gut lining, which can help reduce inflammation, improve nutrient absorption, and restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

How Does the GAPS Diet Work?

The GAPS diet is a two-phase program designed to heal and seal the gut lining. The first phase eliminates all grains, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates from the diet and focuses on eating nutrient-dense foods like meats, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. The second phase gradually reintroduces fermented foods, grains, and other complex carbohydrates.

The GAPS Diet Guidelines

The GAPS diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that eliminates grains, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates. The diet includes nutrient-dense foods like meats, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. The diet also includes fermented foods and probiotic supplements to help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

What Foods to Eat on the GAPS Diet

The GAPS diet includes nutrient-dense foods like meats, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Other foods that are allowed on the GAPS diet include fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. Coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and ghee are also allowed on the GAPS diet.

What Foods to Avoid on the GAPS Diet

The GAPS diet eliminates all grains, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates. This includes bread, pasta, cereal, and most grains. Refined sugars and artificial sweeteners are also not allowed on the GAPS diet. Dairy products, legumes, and some fruits and vegetables are also avoided on the GAPS diet.

Sample GAPS Diet Recipes

Grain-Free Pancakes

Ingredients: 3 eggs, 1/4 cup coconut milk, 1/4 cup almond flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 tablespoons melted butter.

Instructions: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and coconut milk. In a separate bowl, stir together the almond flour, baking soda, and sea salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined. Add the honey and melted butter and mix until combined. Heat a skillet over medium heat and grease with butter or coconut oil. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the hot skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides. Serve with fresh fruit and/or honey.

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 4 cloves garlic.

Instructions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Rinse and pat dry the chicken. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil. Arrange the vegetables around the chicken. Place in the oven and roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Serve with a side salad.

Avocado Smoothie

Ingredients: 1/2 avocado, 1 banana, 1 cup coconut milk, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon.

Instructions: Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy. Add more coconut milk or honey to taste.

Conclusion

The GAPS diet is a nutritional protocol designed to heal and seal the gut lining. It is based on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet, which was developed by Dr. Sidney Valentine Haas in the 1920s for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases. The GAPS diet is said to help with a variety of digestive and mental health issues, including autism, ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and dyslexia. The GAPS diet eliminates all grains, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates, and focuses on eating nutrient-dense foods like meats, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. The GAPS diet also includes fermented foods and probiotic supplements to help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.