Foods allowed in the AIP diet: Focus on the Ecoideas brand

It is sometimes difficult to know what foods are “allowed” in the first phase of the IPA protocol. The first stage of the diet is to remove all foods that may be problematic for people with autoimmune diseases: Seeds, legumes, beans, dairy, eggs, oilseeds and solanaceae. And let’s not forget food additives. Today, we are going to focus on the range of the Ecoidées brand; in order to highlight the products that can be consumed without fear, in the elimination phase of the AIP diet.

Ecoidées, ethical and inspiring values in line with the AIP protocol

Its mission of benevolence towards our planet as well as its fair trade and solidarity projects harmonise wonderfully with its choice to help us discover beautiful products from all over the world. Thanks to its wise values, this eco-responsible company invites us to discover new flavours while consuming responsibly. Flavours and fragrances, sweets, spices, sauces and condiments; you will certainly find what you are looking for in the networks of specialised organic shops, representatives of Ecoidées.

A rainbow in my plate AIP? What is it for?

When embarking on the protocol, it is not just a matter of putting aside foods that are predisposed to trigger an immune response. Indeed, it is essential to consume food rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals: bone broth, quality meats, offal, but also wild fish. Then there are fermented foods and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. In other words, in phase 1 of the AIP method, we focus on treating vitamin and mineral deficiencies. By enriching our plates with a variety of colourful foods, we can take advantage of the benefits they bring to the different areas of our body. The more colours we consume, the better we feel!

Each colour has its own function!

It should be noted that each fruit or vegetable, according to its colour, forms a group. Each of these colour groups tends to offer very distinct nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Therefore, combining several colours will diversify the benefits.

The rainbow on my plate AIP, explanations :

• Red: Rich in lycopene, a carotenoid that scavenges gene-damaging free radicals and appears to protect against prostate cancer, heart and lung disease. Found in: strawberries, cranberries, raspberries, tomatoes, cherries, apples, beets, watermelon, red grapes, red peppers and red onions.
• Orange and yellow: Provide beta cryptothanxin, which promotes intracellular communication and may help prevent heart disease. Found in: carrots, sweet potatoes, yellow peppers, oranges, bananas, pineapples, tangerines, mangoes, pumpkin, apricots, winter squash (butternut), peaches, corn.
• Green: These foods are rich in cancer-fighting chemicals such as sulforaphane, isocyanate and indoles, which inhibit the action of carcinogens (cancer-causing compounds). Found in: spinach, avocados, asparagus, artichokes, broccoli, alfalfa sprouts, kale, Brussels sprouts, kiwi, kale, green tea, herbs (mint, rosemary, sage, thyme and basil).
• Blue and purple: contain powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins which are thought to delay cell ageing and help the heart by blocking blood clots. Found in: blueberries, blackberries, elderberries, grapes, sultanas, aubergine, plums, figs, prunes, lavender and purple cabbage.
• White and brown: The onion family contains allicin, which has anti-tumour properties. Other foods in this group contain flavonoid antioxidants such as quercetin and kaempferol. They are found in: onions, cauliflower, garlic, leeks, parsnips, daikon radish and mushrooms.

Which products in the range are allowed in the AIP diet?

Coconut oil:

Obesity and chronic disease actually took off during the low-fat era. One reason is that people replaced healthy fats with low-fat packaged foods (which contained added sugar and artificial ingredients to replace the flavour lost when the fat was removed). But another reason is that fat is a nutrient that our bodies need! Dietary fat is an essential part of our body. They make up 50% of every cell membrane and 60% of our brain structure. Fats are also essential for healthy skin, eyes, immune system, gut, fertility, blood sugar regulation and body temperature. In fact, many vitamins in food are fat-soluble (such as vitamins A, D, K and E): Hence the importance of consuming dietary fats such as olive oil or coconut oil during your IYP diet.

Turmeric :

Turmeric offers a wide range of health benefits, particularly in the case of autoimmune diseases:

• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antimicrobial
• Antitumor
• Neuroprotective
• Protective of the cardiovascular system
• Immunomodulator

Ginger :

Ginger has a long history of use in various forms of traditional and alternative medicine. It has been used to aid digestion, reduce nausea, and help fight the flu and colds. Ginger’s unique fragrance and flavour comes from its natural oils, the most important of which is the gingerol. The most important of these is gingerol is the main bioactive compound in ginger. It is responsible for many of the medicinal properties of ginger. According to research, gingerol has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. For example, it can help reduce oxidative stress, which results from an excessive amount of free radicals in the body.

Coconut flour :

It is a gluten-free flour made only from coconut. As a result, it is rich in fibre and is a good source of protein for the AIP protocol. Therefore, adding it to your diet can support blood sugar stability, good digestion and cardiovascular health. It can also help maintain a stable weight when consumed as part of a nutritious and balanced diet.

Tiger nutsedge :

This tuber is a rich source of fibre, vitamins, minerals and other beneficial plant compounds. Sprouting or roasting the stumps before eating them can increase their antioxidant levels and improve the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. The Ecoideas range offers Tiger Nut flour for your culinary preparations. But also whole or slivered nuts to decorate your breakfasts or to sprinkle on your yoghurts with coconut milk.

Nettle :

Nettle powder is a goldmine of vitamins and minerals. It should be noted that the components of the plant could have an anti-inflammatory and hypotensive action. In fact, it is very interesting to sprinkle nettle on your salads or mix it into your smoothies! A superfood to add to your AIP shopping list!

Xoxo, Elodie. Naturopath & AIP Paleo coach.

Sources:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7770496/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5852989/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK9928/
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20329590/
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25230520/
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26545655/