The Wahls Protocol: A Guide to Healthy Eating for Autoimmune Diseases

If you live with an autoimmune disease, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis, or if you want to improve your health, the Wahls Protocol might catch your interest. Created by Dr. Terry Wahls, a professor at the University of Iowa, this diet was born from her battle with MS, diagnosed in 2000. After years of struggle, she designed an anti-inflammatory diet that helped her regain energy and mobility. Its principles also apply to other autoimmune diseases by targeting inflammation and gut health.

In this article, I explain what the Wahls Protocol is, its benefits, its challenges, and share my personal experience.

What is the Wahls Protocol?

The Wahls Protocol is a dietary approach that prioritizes whole foods, eliminates processed products, and incorporates stress management to reduce chronic inflammation. Designed for MS, it also supports other autoimmune diseases through its focus on nutrients. It comes in three levels:

• Wahls Paleo Plus: Very strict, it limits sugars, emphasizing non-starchy vegetables, proteins (fish, lean meat), and healthy fats (coconut oil, avocado).

• Wahls Paleo: More flexible, it includes low-glycemic fruits (berries) and starchy vegetables (sweet potatoes).

• Wahls Diet: The most flexible, it allows sweeter fruits and starchy vegetables.

Why Does It Help Autoimmune Diseases?

Autoimmune diseases are characterized by chronic inflammation that disrupts immunity. The Wahls Protocol works by:

• Providing nutrients: Green leafy vegetables, rich in vitamins, support the nervous system.

• Protecting cells: Healthy fats (olive oil, omega-3s) reduce inflammation.

• Balancing the microbiome: Fiber from vegetables and fruits strengthens gut health.

By eliminating processed foods, the diet can calm autoimmune reactions. Learn more on Dr. Wahls’ website.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, helpful for MS, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis.

• Nutrient-rich: Prioritizes foods high in vitamins and minerals.

• Flexible: Three levels to suit your needs.

• Gut health: Supports a balanced microbiome.

Drawbacks

• Strict: Advanced levels require discipline.

• Cost: Supplements and fresh foods can be expensive.

• Variable: Results differ for each person. Medical supervision is advised.

My Experience with the Wahls Protocol

I followed the Wahls Diet and Wahls Paleo to better manage inflammation. After a year, I lost 18 kg, regained energy, and felt lighter. But persistent bloating and the high cost of supplements, which strained my budget, led me to stop. I continued a bit by eliminating foods that caused bloating, and this anti-inflammatory diet showed me that you can support your body against autoimmune diseases.

How to Get Started?

1. Choose a level: Start with the Wahls Diet, which is simpler.

2. Stock up: Buy green vegetables, proteins (eggs, fish), and healthy fats (avocado, olive oil).

3. Plan: Prepare meals in advance to stay organized.

4. Consult: Talk to a doctor to tailor the diet to your autoimmune disease.

FAQ

Is the Wahls Protocol suitable for all autoimmune diseases?

Yes, its anti-inflammatory approach helps with MS, lupus, and more, but consult a professional.

How long until results?

Some notice changes in weeks, but it may take 3-6 months for significant results.

So, Tempted by the Wahls Protocol?

The Wahls Protocol is an appealing option for managing autoimmune diseases with healthy eating. Have you tried an anti-inflammatory diet? Share in the comments!

⭐Recommandations

To better understand the Wahls Protocol, I recommend the book The Wahls Protocol by Terry Wahls.

It details the principles and provides practical tips. Find it here

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