Low SIgA, Low Elastase? Your Food Guide is Here.
Chronic illnesses, including conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), Long COVID, and other inflammation or gut-related issues, require careful dietary considerations to manage symptoms and improve overall health.
This safe food guide, curated by gut guru, Matt Sikora, the author of EndSickness.org, is uniquely tailored to help those with low secretory Immunoglobulin A (sIgA) and elastase levels navigate their diet. It emphasizes low-inflammatory and low-histamine foods while promoting a rotation diet to minimize immune reactions.
The Importance of a Low Inflammatory Diet
Inflammation can exacerbate symptoms associated with chronic illnesses, making it essential to focus on foods that are less likely to trigger inflammatory responses. A rotation diet, which involves varying food choices, can help prevent the development of new sensitivities and manage histamine levels, a common concern for individuals with MCAS.
Safe Food List
To manage your condition effectively, focus on incorporating these foods into your diet, which are generally well-tolerated and promote a healthy, balanced approach:
Starches
Sweet Potatoes
Red Potatoes
Various Rices (white, brown, basmati, black, etc.)
Beans (ensure they are well-cooked)
Vegetables
Carrots
Broccoli
Brussels Sprouts
Cauliflower
Cucumber
Swiss Chard
Kale
Zucchini
Squash
Lettuce
Peppers and Celery (Note: These can be hit or miss; monitor your body’s reaction.)
Fruits
Apples
Hard Pears
Bananas
Blueberries
Blackberries
Raspberries
Harder Avocados
Cantaloupe
Watermelon
Grapes (in moderation)
Seeds/Nuts
Ground Chia
Flax Meal
Proteins
Various Beans
Lentils
Flax Meal
Fats
Harder Avocado
Olive Oil
Avocado Oil
(Note: Seed oils can be riskier and should be used cautiously.)
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can trigger adverse reactions and should be avoided or consumed minimally:
Spices, Seasonings
Dairy Products
Eggs
Coconut
Oats
Sauces
Meats
Condiments
Prepackaged Foods
Gluten
Gliaden (wheat, barley, rye, oats)
Refined Carbs
Trans Fats (think fried foods, margarine, commercially-baked goods)
Citrus
Anything irritating
General Guidelines for Implementation
Rotate Your Foods: No food should be consumed more than two consecutive days to minimize histamine buildup and reduce the risk of triggering an immune response.
Monitor and Adjust: Any food that you consume frequently or crave should be removed from your diet for at least a week. After this period, you can try reintroducing it cautiously to see if your body reacts negatively.
Meal Timing: Stop eating 2-3 hours before bedtime to aid digestion and reduce nighttime symptoms.
Conclusion
Managing chronic illness through diet requires careful planning and attention to how foods affect your body. Focusing on low-inflammatory and low-histamine foods and incorporating a rotation diet can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. As always, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian to tailor these recommendations to your specific health needs and conditions. This blog is not medical advice. Sanitas Est Libertas.
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