The elimination diet is used by Naturopathic doctors and nutrition professionals to determine an individual's food allergies, according to Timothy Culbert in the book, "Integrative Pediatrics." This diet is sometimes touted as the best way to narrow down what foods are causing negative symptoms in the body. All of the most common allergens are removed from the diet for a period of time, along with any other food an individual feels may be causing issues. Rice is often a staple in this diet, as it is considered a low-allergenic food.
Identification
An elimination diet is one in which an individual eliminates suspected allergenic foods and then gradually reintroduces them, according to "The False Fat Diet" by Elson M. Haas. The most common allergenic foods include wheat, dairy, soy, corn and peanuts, but almost any food can affect the body negatively. Once allergens are determined via the diet, then a permanent diet can be put in place. During the elimination portion, though, certain foods that rarely cause allergies must be consumed. One of those foods is rice. Brown rice is preferable to white due to its higher nutritional content, though both are considered low allergens.
Significance
The purpose of an elimination diet, according to Jordan S. Josephson in "Sinus Relief Now," is to allow the body's detoxification system to recover from exposure to allergens and toxins such as pollution, alcohol and smoke. Josephson adds that his patients who followed the diet noticed increased energy and mental alertness, decreased muscle or joint pain and a general increased sense of well-being. A range of other symptoms, including foggy head, lacking concentration and sinus issues are sometimes reported to clear once allergenic foods have been removed from the diet.
Types
More than simple brown rice can be consumed during the elimination diet. According to the book, "The Juice Lady's Guide to Juicing for Health," by Cherie Calbom, brown rice cereals, bread made with rice flour and rice cakes can also be consumed. Unsweetened rice milk can be substituted for cow's or soy milk. Be sure to read labels carefully on any rice products used during the elimination diet to make sure they do not contain suspected allergens.
Time Frame
The time it takes to complete the elimination diet varies, but according to Calborn, all suspected allergens should be removed for an initial seven days. This is known as the "cleansing period." After the week is over, begin to reintroduce one food every two days and note if you experience any symptoms. Follow this regimen until all foods have been reintroduced into the diet. It is fine to consume rice during this entire process.
Considerations
The elimination diet takes a lot of time and effort. Therefore, it may be easier and faster to obtain a blood test for food allergies from a doctor. Fatigue, lethargy or headaches may occur during the elimination diet as allergens are released from the system. These symptoms should pass quickly. If not, consult your doctor. Also, it is possible for rice to cause an allergy, so if symptoms do not subside from cutting all other suspected allergens, rice may be the culprit.
References
- "Integrative Pediatrics': Timothy Culbert; 2009
- "The False Fat Diet"; Elson M. Haas; 2001
- "Sinus Relief Now"; Jordan S. Josephson; 2006
- "The Juice Lady's Guide to Juicing for Health"; Cherie Calbom; 2008
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