How to Succeed on the GAPS Diet

Friday, December 9th, 2011

I’ve delivered several lectures at New Seasons markets on the GAPS Diet – (for those who may not be familiar with GAPS, it stands for Gut & Psychology Syndrome. You can visit my last post to learn more about it.) – and what is becoming a common theme is that there is a giant *gap* in knowing what GAPS is, and knowing how to implement the program. As one of the docs here at the clinic put it – “It would be like me handing a new patient the Merck Medical Manual and wishing them good luck.” Well, maybe that’s an exaggeration – but it’s not far off!

As part of my practice I offer a free half hour consult to come in and discuss how I might be able to help you figure out a personal nutrition program. Recently, I have had a number of these consults say to me “just tell me what to do next on the GAPS diet.” What I see happening is people embarking on the program by themselves – book in hand, bone broth on the stove and a fist full of probiotics – and a month in, not knowing where to go with it. The best of intentions can be thwarted by a sudden curve or even a fork in the road. “How do I know when I’m done with phase 1…or 2….or 6?” “What can I do to get back on track after a holiday disaster?” “I don’t seem to be getting anywhere – how do I know if it’s working?”

I’ve even had a few people come in that were started on the program by a doctor or practitioner who has not taken training in implementing the GAPS protocol. As a certified GAPS practitioner – I know that it takes more than just reading the book to be able to help people successfully follow this program and get them measurable results. This diet is not for the faint of heart – it takes commitment from both the dieter and the practitioner. There may be a few people who are determined enough to plow through the hills and valleys of the GAPS program – but for many it can be daunting!

The bottom line is – you don’t have to do it alone.

I’ve put together a program for GAPS patients that offers an all-inclusive approach to doing the diet – and succeeding.  The program includes a health assessment, personalized diet program – including supplementation, re-evaluations with objective testing, and a series of six cooking classes.  The program is designed to last between 9 months and a year – depending on the individual’s progress and specific needs.  The benefits to comitting to a program and doing it in a clinical setting is that not only do you have complete support but you also have access to physicians if medical assessment is needed. 

Additionally, our GAPS Group Program will begin on January 16th at the kitchen of Salt, Fire & Time (1902 NW 24th) and will run for 10 weeks.  Each Monday we will cover a different topic in the GAPS protocol with education and information, recipes, strategies and more.  For more info visit our website at www.naturecuresclinic.com or call me at 502/287-4970.

The more I talk to people the more I believe that everyone is a GAPS patient to some degree or another.  Curious?  Check out www.gaps.me for information and FAQs about Gut & Psychology Syndrome.

Love & Health,

Maria

Tags: ADD, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, Cancer, depression, GAPS, GAPS Diet, Gut & Psychology Syndrome, gut dysbiosis, leaky gut syndrome, Nutrition, Schizophrenia, special diet
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