Is No Plant GAPS truly a plant-free protocol? The answer, like the protocol itself, is nuanced. Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride’s standard No Plant GAPS allows for a limited inclusion of plant matter, specifically in the form of vegetable medley brine and herbal teas. But it does not allow consuming fermented vegetables.

However, the complexity arises from the intricacies of gut health, the impact of plant components on a compromised digestive system, and the fine balance between healing and introduction.

The fundamental premise of the No Plant GAPS revolves around the notion that damaged guts struggle to digest plants and their juices effectively. The protocol recognizes that plant-related components, even in liquid form, can pose challenges to individuals with compromised digestive systems. Hence, the inclusion of vegetable medley is approached with caution, emphasizing fermentation as a means to enhance nutrient digestibility.

One of the primary concerns addressed by the No Plant GAPS protocol is the presence of antinutrients in plants. Antinutrients, such as lectins, saponins, oxalates, salicylates, and enzyme inhibitors, are compounds that can interfere with nutrient absorption and digestion. While some antinutrients have been studied, many remain underexplored. During fermentation, these antinutrients may leach into the liquid, presenting a potential challenge to sensitive digestive systems.

The introduction of vegetable medley becomes a delicate dance between providing beneficial nutrients and minimizing potential harm. The protocol suggests waiting for a more robust gut before attempting to introduce a vegetable medley, hence it is not introduced on the initial phases/stages of the No Plant GAPS.

For those experiencing heightened sensitivity, starting with small amounts and gradually increasing allows the body to adapt without overwhelming it with unwanted reactions.

Fermentation, a key process in preparing vegetable medley, is highlighted for its potential to render nutrients more digestible. However, the effectiveness of fermentation in neutralizing or eliminating antinutrients remains a topic of consideration, and for that reason many GAPStars following the No Plant GAPS struggle to introduce it in their diet. Be patient, work the gut and wait until the gut is sufficiently healed and resilient before introducing vegetable medley brine.

So just to summarize, No Plant GAPS journey is very individual, some individuals may struggle even with herbal teas or find vegetable medley challenging. In such cases, adhering to a 100% animal-based diet aligns with the core principles of No Plant GAPS. It allows for focused gut healing, with the expectation that over time, the body will gain the resilience needed to introduce and benefit from plant-based elements.

Those who can tolerate herbal teas and beet kvass, should follow the protocol as outlined by Dr. Natasha Campbel-McBride.

Other fermented brines are also a good option to introduce on No Plant GAPS. That includes beet kvass and sauerkraut. Regarding sauerkraut, it is best to ferment it for at least 1 year

to minimize histamines and other amines.

So in summary,

No Plant GAPS allows 2 types of plant matter. Vegetable medley brine and herbal teas. Both should be included, only if tolerated.

If you feel you may benefit from No Plant GAPS, you can either complete my No Plant GAPS course (all content checked and verified by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride) or contact me to see how I can help.