Are you looking at the list of approved AIP foods and asking yourself “Is there anything I can eat”?
I remember thinking the same and I’m here to tell you, there are soooo many delicious meals you can create.
After struggling with autoimmune issues…
Granuloma Annulare Rash
Hair loss
Acne
Muscles and body aches
Bran fog
Fatigue
Low thyroid
Migraines
Skin Issues
Low energy
Inability to sleep
I knew something had to change and it was up to me with the help of my doctor and my research on the internet to make it happen.
The first book I purchased and I still reference today is The Paleo Approach by Sarah Ballantyne. This book helped me to not only understand AIP but how to put it into practice without taking over my life. I jumped in with both feet.
To start, I cut out nightshades (I was a big tomato fan), eggs (eating them each morning for high protein diet) nuts (snacks), legumes (I had followed a vegan diet for six months and loved it-little did I know it was not for me), sugar-(I have a big time sweet tooth), and dairy (yogurt, cheese, I loved it all).
I had to learn how to create a diet that worked for my body. After following the diet a month I noticed a slight difference but I knew there was something more I should be doing.
After a couple months on the program, I took a food intolerance test (MRT) that listed many foods that I should steer clear of for the time being. I followed the test and stayed away from the foods that did serve me and brought in even more colorful and nutrient dense foods.
I started simple and I grew from there. Remember this….
“How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.”
Take it slow. Do what you can and along yourself to learn along the way.
This is what I generally eat in a day. Not all days are perfect and not all days take me off course, it’s a matter of giving yourself grace, and allowing yourself to learn as you build your wings.
Mornings:
I start each day with a big glass of water. I believe water is key in life. I like to add lemon. I’ve never been a coffee person, only decaf for a treat, so coffee was not a big deal for me to give up. I try to do some type of workout be it walking, yoga, or strength training. I keep it simple as I don’t want to tax my adrenals (that’s for another blog). So breakfast right after a workout is important for me.
I currently practicing intermittent fasting so my first meal is after 10:00 a.m. or later
Smoothies are my favorite in the morning. I add Designs for Health, Pure Paleo Protein and/or Vital Collagen to get in protein and so many other amazing vitamins and minerals. Generally I add berries, coconut milk to help get healthy fats, a handful of greens, sometimes a 1/4 lemon with the rind removed and a handful of ice. Blend it and enjoy. Don’t forget to chew your smoothie to turn on the receptors for digestion. Yes, it feels odd at first but you will get used to it. Chew. Chew. Chew.
You can use your favorites. I stick to berries as they are low in sugar and packed with so many amazing benefits.
You can also create simple and quick breakfast meals such as:
Turkey or beef with sautéed vegetables (I love rainbow chard)
Bacon wrapped asparagus or sautéed over broccoli
Breakfast sausage with rosemary and a side of diced sweet potato hash
Lunch:
I generally packed with greens
A big salad with mixed greens, sautéed vegetable and grilled chicken breast
Sautéed vegetables with steak
Cauliflower rice stir fry with chicken or beef, lots of vegetables, avocado
Lettuce tacos with ground chicken, turkey, or beef with onion, garlic, shredded carrot, avocado
Sushi Rolls with shredded carrots, avocado, shredded carrots, meat of choice with a side of coconut aminos for dipping.
You can look at my website and download my FREE “Let’s Get Sauced” ebook to get additional sauce and dipping ideas.
Dinner: I really like to have a sit down dinner so John and I can unwind from the day and catch up. I will roast chicken thighs, sautéed meat and vegetables, pick up a roasted chicken from Whole Foods and add the sides, as well as order out from our favorite restaurants.
Acorn Squash with turkey and vegetables
Chicken thighs wrapped with bacon, side of butternut squash cubes, and greens
Salmon in the air fryer with salad and sweet potato
Snacks:
A few of my favorites:
Carrots with Tiger Nut Butter
Coconut Yogurt with berries coconut flakes
Sweet potato nachos
Date Protein Balls
Homemade Jerky
Fresh fruits
A few common questions I often hear:
Do I have to give up my eggs:
Read this: https://www.thepaleomom.com/whys-behind-autoimmune-protocol-eggs/
Why dairy: https://www.thepaleomom.com/the-great-dairy-debate/
Cross Contamination: https://www.thepaleomom.com/gluten-cross-reactivity-update-how-your-body-can-still-think-youre-eating-gluten-even-after-giving-it-up/
Here’s to your health!
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The information included on this site is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan. Reading the information on this page does not create a physician-patient relationship.
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