A medically supervised nutritional protocol in which suspected foods are removed from the diet for a defined period and then reintroduced in a controlled manner to detect food sensitivities.
Indication
- Unexplained chronic gastrointestinal symptoms (bloating, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain)
- Individuals diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Chronic urticaria or unexplained skin rashes
- Migraine with suspected food triggers
- Atopic dermatitis or eczema with suspected food triggers
- Suspected food sensitivity in childhood attention and behavioral complaints (with physician guidance)
- Selected immune-mediated food reactions such as eosinophilic esophagitis
Preparation
- Food allergy (IgE), celiac, and if needed, lactose/fructose tests are completed by the physician
- A symptom diary (symptom + time + suspected food) is kept for at least 2 weeks
- A list of medications and supplements used is prepared
- A 7-day food diary of dietary habits is prepared
- Pre-information is provided for shopping and label reading during the elimination phase
How it's performed
- Detailed medical history is taken and a list of suspected foods (milk, gluten, eggs, nuts, soy, seafood, etc.) is determined
- A 4-6 week elimination phase is planned in which target foods are completely removed
- Symptom monitoring is performed daily during the elimination phase
- In the subsequent reintroduction phase, each food is reintroduced in a controlled manner at intervals of 3-7 days
- After each food reintroduction, symptoms and physical findings are documented
- A personalized long-term nutrition plan is prepared based on the results
Post-procedure
- Follow-up consultations every 2-3 weeks during the elimination phase
- Weekly follow-up and symptom diary review during the reintroduction phase
- Monitoring of vitamins/minerals at risk of deficiency (calcium, vitamin D, B12, iron)
- Coordinated progress with the physician throughout the process
- Annual review of the resulting plan, or when symptoms change
Risks
- Risk of micronutrient deficiencies due to long-term uncontrolled elimination
- Careful follow-up is required in individuals with a tendency to disordered eating behavior
- Possibility of affecting growth and development in children (must be applied under medical supervision)
- Unnecessary food restrictions due to misinterpretation
- Reintroduction must be performed under clinical supervision in severe IgE-mediated food allergies
FAQ
Can I follow an elimination diet on my own?
No. The elimination diet is applied under medical supervision, with a dietitian and physician. Otherwise, the risk of inadequate nutrition and incorrect results is high.
How long does the process take?
The elimination phase usually lasts 4-6 weeks, followed by a reintroduction phase of 4-8 weeks. The total process can take 2-3 months depending on individual sensitivity.
Which foods are most commonly removed?
The most commonly suspected groups are dairy products, gluten, eggs, soy, nuts, seafood, and certain food additives. Which ones are removed is determined individually.
Are the results permanent?
Results are personal. Some sensitivities may decrease over time; for this reason, the long-term plan is reviewed periodically.
Related Information
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