Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation, swelling, and irritation. This condition is part of a group of conditions known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), alongside ulcerative colitis. Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, and it can vary in severity from mild to severe. With most cases affecting the small intestine

Crohn’s disease manifests differently in each individual, but common symptoms include:

1. Abdominal pain: Persistent, crampy abdominal pain is a hallmark symptom of Crohn’s disease. The pain can range from mild to severe and may occur anywhere in the abdomen.
2. Diarrhea: Chronic diarrhea is a prevalent symptom of Crohn’s disease. It may be accompanied by urgency, frequent bowel movements, and loose or watery stools.
3. Constipation: Some people will be affected by chronic constipation or even a mixture of both constipation and diarrhea.
4. Nutritional deficiencies: Chronic inflammation and malabsorption of nutrients can lead to deep nutritional deficiency, that can cause another set of unwanted symptoms
5. Fatigue: fatigue and weakness is quite common, even with adequate rest.
6. Weight loss: Reduced appetite, malabsorption, fear of eating (caused by chronic abdominal pain) and intestinal inflammation can contribute to unintended weight loss in individuals with Crohn’s disease.
7. Rectal bleeding: Inflammation in the rectum or lower gastrointestinal tract can cause rectal bleeding, which may present as bright red blood in the stool or on toilet paper.
8. Fever: Some individuals with Crohn’s disease may experience low-grade fevers, particularly during flare-ups of inflammation.
9. Cramping: Intestinal inflammation and spasms can cause cramping or bloating, which may worsen after eating.
10. Joint pain: Crohn’s disease is associated with inflammatory arthritis, which can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, particularly in the large joints such as the knees or ankles.

Before delving into the solution, let’s first explore what exacerbates Crohn’s disease. Apart from the obvious culprits like processed foods and high-stress levels, there are additional factors that contribute to worsening the condition.

The solution lies in eliminating these triggering factors and focusing on healing and fortifying the gut. The most effective and expedient approach is through adopting the No Plant GAPS diet.

Why is the No Plant GAPS diet the optimal choice?

Well, it’s because all plants contain anti-nutrients, substances that act as protective mechanisms for plant seeds. These anti-nutrients, including phytic acid, phenols, salicylates, oxalates, fiber, and others, can be detrimental to a compromised gut lining.

Fiber, in particular, can exacerbate inflammation and hinder the healing process by feeding both beneficial and harmful bacteria indiscriminately. Fiber is also extremely harsh, rough and scratchy on a very delicate and wounded gut lining.

In a healthy body, these compounds are neutralized and processed efficiently. However, in individuals with digestive issues or impaired detoxification systems, these compounds can accumulate, leading to digestive discomfort, chronic pain, and cognitive issues.

The No Plant GAPS diet focuses exclusively on healing and soothing animal-based foods that are easy to digest. Advanced cooking methods like BBQ are avoided in favor of gentler cooking techniques that promote gut healing. Key components of the diet include meat stock, meats close to the bone, bone marrow, organ meats, raw egg yolk, 24-hour fermented dairy, fish, and fermented vegetable brines. These foods are introduced in a specific order to optimize gut healing.

The protocol for the No Plant GAPS diet is outlined comprehensively in the book “Gut and Physiology Syndrome” by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, the creator of this approach. Further information on the protocol can also be found here.