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Understanding Perimenopause: A Beginner's Guide with Dr. Mariza Snyder (Ep 95)07 Sep 202600:49:46
Episode 95: Understanding Perimenopause: A Beginner’s Guide with Dr. Mariza Snyder

Perimenopause can feel especially confusing when you’re already living with autoimmune disease. Changes in sleep, mood, energy, inflammation, cognition, and even how your body responds to familiar strategies can leave you wondering: Is this an autoimmune flare, perimenopause, or both?

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott is joined by functional medicine practitioner, bestselling author, and women’s hormone health expert Dr. Mariza Snyder for a Perimenopause 101 conversation designed to help women understand what’s actually happening during this transition.

Together, they explore when perimenopause can begin, the surprising symptoms that often appear before cycle changes, and why fluctuating estrogen and progesterone may be especially disruptive for women managing autoimmune disease. They also discuss the foundational role of nutrition, sleep, strength training, metabolic health, and stress resilience, plus where hormone replacement therapy may fit into a personalized approach.

In this episode, you'll learn:
  • What perimenopause is and why it can begin as early as the late 30s
  • Why symptoms can appear years before noticeable menstrual cycle changes
  • Common early symptoms, including anxiety, irritability, brain fog, sleep disruption, and mood changes
  • Why perimenopause and autoimmune flares can be difficult to distinguish
  • How estrogen and progesterone interact with immune regulation and inflammation
  • Why strategies that worked for years may suddenly feel less effective
  • How tracking symptoms alongside your menstrual cycle can reveal important patterns
  • Why blood sugar regulation, nutrition, sleep, strength, and stress resilience matter in perimenopause
  • Dr. Mariza’s “landing the plane” strategy for improving your nighttime routine
  • How to advocate for better perimenopause care and know when to seek additional support
  • Where hormone replacement therapy may fit alongside foundational lifestyle strategies
  • Why your needs may continue to change throughout the perimenopause transition

Resources:
Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why perimenopause can be confusing with autoimmune disease

03:16 – Introducing Dr. Mariza Snyder

04:28 – Perimenopause 101: What are we dealing with?

10:28 – Common and surprising symptoms of perimenopause

17:14 – The perimenopause-autoimmune connection

23:22 – Why old strategies can stop working in perimenopause

28:27 – A foundational approach to perimenopause

35:28 – Knowing when to dig deeper and advocate for care

40:57 – Hormone replacement therapy in perimenopause

46:09 – Hope for autoimmune women navigating perimenopause

Food Nomad: Navigating the Emotional Journey of Autoimmune Disease with Imei Hsu (Ep 94)24 Aug 202600:50:00
Episode 94: Food Nomad — Navigating the Emotional Journey of Autoimmune Disease with Imei Hsu

For many people, changing the way they eat because of autoimmune disease can feel like losing more than food. It can affect family traditions, cultural connection, travel, restaurants, and the simple feeling of belonging around a shared table.

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott is joined by Bernice Imei Hsu, registered nurse, licensed mental health counselor, National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, and AIP Certified Coach, to explore the emotional and cultural journey of living with dietary restrictions.

Five years after writing her Autoimmune Wellness article, "Bringing Culture Back to the Kitchen," Imei reflects on what she has learned about healing, reintroductions, adapting traditional foods, and becoming what she calls a "Food Nomad." Together, Mickey and Imei discuss why healing isn't simply about getting foods back. It's also about finding new ways to reconnect with culture, relationships, travel, and joy.

In this episode, you'll learn:
  • What Imei means by becoming a "Food Nomad"
  • Why dietary restrictions can affect identity, culture, and belonging
  • Why adapting cultural recipes can take years of experimentation
  • How reintroducing foods like soy helped Imei reconnect with family traditions
  • What Imei learned from experimenting with gluten-free sourdough and other foods
  • Why healing and food tolerance can continue evolving long after the elimination phase
  • Ways to navigate family gatherings when you can't eat traditional foods
  • How to give yourself permission to adapt traditions instead of perfectly recreating them
  • What it means to become the "keeper of the food flame"
  • Why grief around food and cultural traditions is a normal part of the autoimmune journey
  • How to hold onto hope when you're still early in elimination or reintroductions

Resources:
Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Food, identity, belonging, and autoimmune disease

02:34 – Introducing Bernice Imei Hsu

03:39 – What it means to be a "Food Nomad"

06:17 – Revisiting "Bringing Culture Back to the Kitchen"

13:21 – The long game of healing and food reintroductions

18:19 – Gluten-free sourdough baking experiments

25:58 – Bringing culture back into the kitchen

31:48 – Food, belonging, and navigating relationships

37:55 – Giving yourself permission to adapt tradition

42:09 – Becoming the "keeper of the food flame"

46:12 – Encouragement for anyone grieving foods or traditions

48:24 – Wrap-up and where to follow Imei

Beyond the Studies: Results from the New Autoimmune Protocol Community (Ep 093)10 Aug 202600:41:31
Episode 93: Beyond the Studies — Results from the New Autoimmune Protocol Community

What happens when people put the Autoimmune Protocol into practice—not in a clinical trial, but in real life?

To celebrate the launch of The New Autoimmune Protocol, hundreds of readers joined a guided online community where they worked through the new Transition Phase, completed 30 days of either Core or Modified AIP, tracked their symptoms, and supported one another along the way.

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott shares the results from this unique community experience. While this wasn't a formal research study, the symptom improvements closely mirrored many of the findings from published AIP research—and the participant stories reveal the power of preparation, accountability, and community support.

Together, these survey results offer a real-world look at what implementing AIP can look like, what people struggled with, what surprised them, and why healing is often about much more than food alone.

In this episode, you'll learn:
  • Why Mickey created a guided community alongside The New Autoimmune Protocol
  • What surprised her most about who joined the program
  • Why the new Transition Phase helped participants feel more prepared for elimination
  • How overall autoimmune symptom severity changed after 30 days
  • Which symptoms improved the most, including digestion, energy, sleep, pain, and brain fog
  • Three standout participant stories that illustrate the range of real-world experiences
  • How these community results compare with published AIP research
  • Why symptom tracking is one of the most valuable tools during AIP
  • The importance of community support when implementing dietary change
  • How to join the ongoing Autoimmune Protocol community

Resources:
Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction and overview of the community experience

02:39 – Why Mickey created The New Autoimmune Protocol community

06:38 – Who joined the community?

09:45 – The new Transition Phase in action

14:33 – What happened after 30 days?

17:16 – Overall autoimmune symptom improvements

19:12 – Energy and sleep results

20:03 – Digestive health improvements

21:53 – Joint pain and inflammation

22:42 – Brain fog, skin, and other symptom changes

23:59 – Three standout participant stories

28:58 – Comparing community results to published research

32:06 – Mickey's biggest takeaways

36:26 – An invitation to join the ongoing community

40:11 – Wrap-up and closing

Fiber, Gut Health & the Microbiome with Farzanah Nasser (Ep 092)27 Jul 202600:42:16
Episode 92: Fiber, Gut Health & the Microbiome with Farzanah Nasser

Fiber is having a moment—but for people with autoimmune disease, digestive symptoms, or a history of restrictive diets, it can also feel confusing.

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott is joined by UK-based naturopathic nutritionist, certified functional medicine practitioner, and author Farzanah Nasser to explore why fiber is one of the most overlooked nutrients in modern nutrition—and why it's so important for gut, immune, and overall health.

Together, they discuss how fiber nourishes the gut microbiome, supports immune function, and helps produce beneficial anti-inflammatory compounds. They also dive into why increasing fiber sometimes causes digestive discomfort, how to introduce it gradually, and practical strategies for reaching the recommended 30 grams per day—even for those with sensitive digestion or autoimmune disease.

In this episode, you'll learn:
  • Why 96% of people aren't getting enough fiber
  • How fiber feeds the gut microbiome and supports immune function
  • The difference between probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics
  • Why short-chain fatty acids are so important for gut and immune health
  • Why increasing fiber too quickly can cause bloating and digestive symptoms
  • Practical strategies for gradually increasing fiber intake
  • Tips for improving bean tolerance through preparation methods
  • How to approach fiber if you have IBS, IBD, SIBO, or sensitive digestion
  • Why mindful eating and proper digestion matter when increasing fiber
  • Favorite high-fiber foods for the Autoimmune Protocol and Modified AIP
  • What 30 grams of fiber actually looks like in a day
  • Simple ways to build more fiber into everyday meals

Resources:

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why fiber matters for autoimmune health

01:30 – Introducing Farzanah Nasser

03:28 – Why fiber deserves a rebrand

04:48 – What fiber is and why we need more of it

07:11 – How fiber feeds the gut microbiome

08:32 – Fiber, inflammation, and immune function

10:51 – Why fiber sometimes causes digestive symptoms

17:01 – Preparing beans for better digestion

19:28 – Fiber for IBS, IBD, SIBO, and sensitive digestion

23:16 – Optimizing digestion before increasing fiber

25:38 – Favorite high-fiber AIP foods

30:39 – What 30 grams of fiber looks like in real life

37:04 – Favorite recipes from The Everyday High-Fiber Plan

40:48 – Wrap-up and closing

Understanding Hair Loss and Autoimmune Disease with VJ Hamilton (Ep 091)13 Jul 202600:49:33
Episode 91: Understanding Hair Loss and Autoimmune Disease with VJ Hamilton

Hair loss is one of the most common symptoms people experience with autoimmune disease—but it's also one of the most misunderstood. While many people assume it's simply part of having an autoimmune condition, hair loss can actually have many different causes, from immune dysfunction and nutrient deficiencies to hormone changes, chronic stress, and scalp inflammation.

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott is joined by registered nutritionist, AIP Certified Coach, and founder of the Autoimmunity Nutrition Clinic, VJ Hamilton, to explore the many factors that influence hair health in people with autoimmune disease. VJ brings both professional expertise and personal experience, having lived with alopecia areata, psoriasis, and post-viral chronic fatigue syndrome herself.

Together, they discuss the different types of hair loss commonly seen in autoimmune patients, how to distinguish between them, and why identifying the underlying cause is essential for supporting healthy regrowth. They also explore nutrient deficiencies, gut health, hormones, stress, topical therapies, and why patience is such an important part of the healing process.

In this episode, you'll learn:
  • The different types of hair loss associated with autoimmune disease
  • How alopecia areata differs from stress-, hormone-, and nutrient-related hair loss
  • Why iron deficiency and low ferritin are common contributors to hair shedding
  • The role of protein, B vitamins, zinc, selenium, vitamin D, and omega-3s in healthy hair growth
  • How gut health and nutrient absorption influence hair health
  • Why stress-related hair shedding often occurs months after a stressful event
  • The importance of investigating the root cause rather than treating hair loss as a diagnosis
  • Which supplements may be helpful—and which are often overhyped
  • Topical strategies that may support scalp and follicle health
  • Why hair is often one of the last tissues to recover during healing
  • How to set realistic expectations for hair regrowth while addressing underlying health concerns

Resources:

VJ Hamilton


Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why hair loss is so common in autoimmune disease

01:52 – Introducing VJ Hamilton

03:13 – VJ's journey with alopecia, psoriasis, and chronic fatigue

06:40 – Different types of hair loss in autoimmune disease

13:30 – Nutrient deficiencies and hair health

23:46 – Common root causes and what to investigate first

27:26 – Why stress-related hair shedding is delayed

30:34 – Helpful supplements (and common misconceptions)

35:15 – Topical treatments and scalp care

41:23 – Setting realistic expectations for hair regrowth

47:14 – Wrap-up and where to learn more

Gut Healing on AIP: What’s Really Happening | Deep Dive (Ep 090)29 Jun 202600:32:46
Episode 90: Gut Healing on AIP — What’s Really Happening | Deep Dive

When most people start the Autoimmune Protocol, they naturally focus on the food: what to remove, what to eat instead, and how to navigate all of the planning that comes with a major dietary change.

But one of the most important things happening during AIP is often something you can’t actually see—changes happening inside the gut itself.

Because AIP isn’t just designed to remove potential food triggers. It’s also designed to support systems commonly affected in autoimmune disease, including the gut lining, the microbiome, nutrient status, and immune regulation.

And those changes don’t always happen quickly or in a straight line.

For many people, healing happens gradually over time. Digestion may become more stable. Energy may improve. Foods that caused symptoms early on may become tolerable much later in the process.

In this episode of the AIP Deep Dive series, Mickey explains what’s actually happening in the gut during AIP and why healing often continues long after the elimination phase ends.

She explores intestinal permeability, the microbiome, nutrient density, lifestyle factors, and why healing is often more about rebuilding resilience than achieving perfection.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  • Why the gut plays such an important role in autoimmune disease
  • What intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”) actually means
  • How stress, sleep, and lifestyle affect gut healing
  • What changes may happen in the microbiome during AIP
  • Why nutrient density is essential for repair and immune regulation
  • How reintroductions provide information about healing capacity
  • Why healing and food tolerance can evolve over time
  • How to approach setbacks and reactions with more patience and clarity

Resources:
Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction and Mickey’s personal gut healing story

04:35 – Why the gut matters in autoimmune disease

09:10 – Intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”) explained

14:10 – How the microbiome shifts during AIP

17:55 – Why nutrient density supports repair

21:30 – The role of lifestyle, stress, and sleep

25:31 – Why healing isn’t linear

31:22 – Wrap-up and key takeaways

The Future of Autoimmune Research with Victoria Shanmugam, Director of the Office of Autoimmune Disease Research (Ep 089)15 Jun 202600:32:10
Episode 89: The Future of Autoimmune Research with Victoria Shanmugam, Director of the Office of Autoimmune Disease Research

Autoimmune disease affects an estimated 50 million Americans, yet for decades these conditions have often received less attention, coordination, and funding than other major chronic diseases.

That landscape is beginning to change.

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott is joined by Dr. Victoria Shanmugam, rheumatologist, physician-scientist, and Director of the Office of Autoimmune Disease Research (OADR) at the National Institutes of Health. Created by Congress in 2023, the OADR was established to coordinate autoimmune disease research across the NIH and help accelerate progress in understanding, treating, preventing, and ultimately curing autoimmune diseases.

Together, Mickey and Dr. Shanmugam discuss why the office was created, how autoimmune research is evolving, and the most promising areas of innovation currently underway. They explore everything from environmental triggers and large-scale data platforms to early disease detection, CAR-T therapies, and the future of personalized autoimmune medicine.

This conversation offers a hopeful and practical look at where autoimmune research is headed—and what that progress could mean for patients over the next decade.

In this episode, you'll learn:
  • Why the Office of Autoimmune Disease Research was created and what its mission is
  • How autoimmune diseases intersect with every organ system and NIH research institute
  • What the first NIH-wide Strategic Plan for Autoimmune Disease Research includes
  • Why studying multiple autoimmune diseases together may accelerate discoveries
  • How environmental exposures may influence autoimmune disease risk and progression
  • The role of large-scale collaborations and data-sharing platforms in research
  • Why early detection and preclinical autoimmune disease are major areas of focus
  • How Type 1 diabetes research is shaping new approaches to prevention
  • What CAR-T therapies and other immune-targeted treatments may offer in the future
  • Why patient participation and advocacy remain essential to research progress
  • What researchers hope to achieve over the next five to ten years in autoimmune medicine

Resources:

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why autoimmune research is entering a new era

01:41 – Introducing Dr. Victoria Shanmugam

03:29 – What is the Office of Autoimmune Disease Research?

04:58 – Why autoimmune diseases have historically been under-researched

07:19 – Goals of the OADR and coordination across NIH

09:54 – Studying more than 140 autoimmune diseases together

12:00 – The NOURISH challenge and nutrition research initiatives

14:07 – Promising areas of autoimmune disease research

16:09 – Environmental exposures and the EXACT Plan Network

17:28 – Autoimmune Centers of Excellence and cross-disease collaboration

18:34 – New clinical trials and prevention-focused research

20:02 – Early detection and preclinical autoimmune disease

21:18 – Data platforms and large-scale collaboration efforts

25:18 – How patients should think about research progress

26:32 – What the next 5–10 years may bring

28:49 – How patients can stay informed and engaged

30:16 – Why patient voices matter in research

31:00 – Wrap-up and closing reflections

The First AIP Pilot Trial in Rheumatoid Arthritis with Julianne Taylor (Ep 088)01 Jun 202600:54:52
Episode 88: The First AIP Pilot Trial in Rheumatoid Arthritis with Julianne Taylor

Can dietary change meaningfully improve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms?

A recently published pilot study investigating the Autoimmune Protocol diet in adults with rheumatoid arthritis found improvements in patient-reported disease activity, pain, fatigue, sleep, and quality of life measures—with several participants reaching remission-level scores by the end of the intervention.

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott is joined by registered nutritionist, AIP Certified Coach, and PhD candidate Julianne Taylor to discuss the first clinical trial investigating the Autoimmune Protocol in rheumatoid arthritis.

Julianne shares her personal journey into autoimmune nutrition research, explains how the study was designed, and walks through the results of the pilot trial—including improvements in fatigue, sleep, pain, and disease activity.

Together, they also explore the nuances and limitations of dietary research, discuss why individual responses vary, and dive into Julianne’s broader scoping review of elimination and reintroduction diets in rheumatoid arthritis spanning decades of research.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  • How Julianne’s personal health experience led her into autoimmune nutrition research
  • What a pilot feasibility study is and why it matters
  • How the AIP rheumatoid arthritis study was designed
  • Why patient-reported outcomes like fatigue and sleep are important in RA research
  • What improvements participants experienced during the intervention
  • Why some participants experienced challenges or adverse effects
  • How nutrient density and food eliminations may both influence outcomes
  • What historical elimination diet research in RA reveals about common trigger foods
  • Why nightshades continue to be an important area of interest in autoimmune nutrition
  • What future research on AIP and rheumatoid arthritis may explore next

Resources:
Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction to the first AIP rheumatoid arthritis pilot study

01:56 – Introducing Julianne Taylor

03:54 – Julianne’s personal health journey and early paleo research

11:34 – What a pilot feasibility study is

13:05 – The questionnaires used in the AIP RA pilot trial

17:07 – The AIP intervention and elimination phase

19:32 – Results of the rheumatoid arthritis pilot study

24:56 – Discussing adverse effects and individual variability

30:57 – Diet quality versus food eliminations

33:54 – Reviewing decades of elimination diet research in RA

38:48 – Common trigger foods identified in the literature

42:31 – Nightshades and rheumatoid arthritis

44:31 – Upcoming AIP and RA research

51:20 – What Julianne hopes clinicians and patients take away from the research

53:23 – Where to follow Julianne’s work online

Celebrating NAIP Launch Week & Creating Through Chronic Illness with Alaina Moore of Tennis (Ep 087)25 May 202600:52:42
Episode 87: Celebrating NAIP Launch Week & Creating Through Chronic Illness with Alaina Moore of Tennis

What does it take to keep creating when your body is struggling? How do you continue making meaningful work while navigating uncertainty, limitations, and chronic illness in real time?

In this special episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott celebrates the launch of The New Autoimmune Protocol with a deeply personal conversation featuring her longtime friend Alaina Moore—vocalist and songwriter of the indie band Tennis.

Instead of interviewing a guest, Mickey takes the guest seat herself as Alaina turns the tables to explore the creative process behind the new book, the realities of creating while chronically ill, and the surprising overlap between art, music, food, and healing.

Together, they discuss what it means to pursue creative work while managing chronic illness, how illness can shape identity and perspective, and why adapting to changing capacity is often part of the process. Alaina also shares her experience navigating dysphonia while recording and touring, while Mickey reflects on photographing The New Autoimmune Protocol during a severe autoimmune eye flare.

This conversation is honest, funny, emotional, and deeply relatable for anyone who has tried to keep showing up for meaningful work while living in a body that doesn’t always cooperate.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  • How chronic illness can shape creativity, identity, and artistic work
  • Why adapting to limitations is often part of the creative process
  • The similarities between songwriting, recipe development, and visual storytelling
  • How Mickey approaches recipe development, writing, and cookbook photography
  • Why creative work often requires both structure and chaos
  • How sensory imagination influences both music and cooking
  • Alaina Moore’s experience recovering from dysphonia while touring with Tennis
  • Mickey’s experience photographing a cookbook during an autoimmune eye flare
  • Why accepting chronic illness can feel freeing instead of limiting
  • The emotional impact of medical gaslighting and delayed diagnosis
  • How creativity, music, and art can help people move through illness
  • Why managing chronic illness is different from “overcoming” it

Resources:

Alaina Moore & Tennis


Mickey Trescott


Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction and NAIP launch week reflections

01:31 – Introducing Alaina Moore of Tennis

04:37 – Artists, chronic illness, and creative resilience

07:08 – Mickey’s writing and recipe development process

13:31 – Alaina’s songwriting process and creative structure

18:11 – Music, taste, and sensory imagination

25:07 – How Mickey perfects recipes

30:17 – Why Mickey shares her work publicly

32:56 – Creative breakthroughs and photographing the new book

39:02 – Alaina’s experience with dysphonia and vocal rehabilitation

44:11 – Accepting chronic illness and redefining healing

51:14 – Wrap-up and closing reflections

What Joy Can Survive: Chronic Illness and Healing with K.J. Ramsey (Ep 086)18 May 202600:53:44
Episode 86: What Joy Can Survive? Chronic Illness and Healing with K.J. Ramsey

What if healing isn’t about getting rid of pain—but about learning how to remain fully alive within it?

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott is joined by K.J. Ramsey, trauma-informed therapist, author, and chronic illness advocate. Her new memoir, The Place Between Our Pains, explores life with chronic illness, medical trauma, and the complicated relationship many of us have with our bodies when healing doesn’t look the way we expected.

Together, Mickey and K.J. explore what it means to live well even when symptoms persist. They discuss medical gaslighting, identity shifts, self-trust, redefining healing, and why joy and grief often coexist in the chronic illness experience.

K.J. also shares how journaling and creative practices helped her process pain, reconnect with herself, and remain present through years of illness and uncertainty.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  • How chronic illness can shape identity, especially in early adulthood
  • Why medical gaslighting is so damaging—and how self-trust becomes essential
  • The emotional impact of being sick without clear answers or validation
  • How dissociation and disconnection from the body can develop during chronic illness
  • Why speaking to your body with compassion changes the healing process
  • What it means to redefine healing beyond symptom elimination
  • How chronic illness can deepen connection, creativity, and joy
  • Why grief and joy often coexist in the healing journey
  • The role of journaling and creative practices in processing pain and stress
  • How creativity can help transform suffering into meaning and aliveness
  • Why “being fully alive” may matter more than becoming symptom-free

Resources:

K.J. Ramsey


Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction and trigger warning

01:04 – Introducing K.J. Ramsey and The Place Between Our Pains

04:33 – Identity and illness in early adulthood

09:20 – Medical gaslighting and self-trust

16:01 – Dissociation, embodiment, and learning to listen to the body

24:14 – Redefining healing and living fully with pain

32:19 – How illness changes us

40:15 – Journaling, creativity, and processing pain

52:08 – Wrap-up and closing reflections

Developing Your Personal Health Vision with Jaime Hartman (Ep 085)11 May 202600:28:58
Episode 85: Developing Your Personal Health Vision with Jaime Hartman

When starting the Autoimmune Protocol, it’s easy to focus on the details—what to eat, what to remove, and how to do everything “right.” But there’s a deeper question that often gets overlooked: what are you actually working toward?

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott is joined by Jaime Hartman, National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach, educator, and co-teacher of the AIP Certified Coach Program, to explore the concept of a personal health vision.

This conversation introduces a foundational mindset shift—moving beyond short-term goals and into a clear, personalized vision of what health means to you. Jaime explains how this approach helps guide decisions, build resilience, and create a more sustainable path through AIP and beyond.

Together, they explore how defining your vision can help you stay grounded, communicate your needs, and navigate the complexities of chronic illness with more clarity and purpose.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  • The difference between a health goal and a personal health vision
  • Why having a clear vision makes AIP more sustainable and meaningful
  • How different models of health (medical, holistic, and wellness) shape your perspective
  • Why a personal health vision acts as a compass during challenging moments
  • How to use your vision to make decisions about priorities, support, and care
  • Real-life examples of how health vision influences daily choices and long-term strategy
  • How your vision can help guide reintroductions and lifestyle flexibility
  • Why personal values, relationships, and purpose are essential parts of healing
  • Journaling prompts and visualization techniques to help define your vision
  • How to approach this process if you feel discouraged, disconnected, or unsure what’s possible

Resources:

Jaime Hartman


AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory: https://aipcertified.com

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why AIP needs a bigger “why” beyond food rules

01:57 – Introducing Jaime Hartman

03:10 – What a personal health vision is (vs. goals)

05:57 – Medical, holistic, and wellness models of health

09:45 – Why vision matters in autoimmune healing

12:09 – How to use your health vision in real life

17:11 – Journaling prompts to define your vision

22:59 – How to begin if you feel discouraged

25:00 – Final reflections and encouragement

Troubleshooting AIP: How to Identify What’s Going Wrong | Deep Dive (Ep 084)04 May 202600:30:06
Episode 84: Troubleshooting AIP — How to Identify What’s Going Wrong | Deep Dive

When you start the Autoimmune Protocol, it’s easy to expect a fairly straightforward path: remove certain foods, focus on nutrient density, support your lifestyle—and over time, feel better.

And for some people, that’s exactly what happens.

But for many others, the process feels more complicated. You might feel worse when you begin, struggle to stay consistent, stop seeing progress after a few months, or feel confused during reintroductions.

If you’ve ever wondered, What am I doing wrong? or Why isn’t this working for me?—you’re not alone.

In this episode of the AIP Deep Dive series, Mickey introduces troubleshooting as a normal and essential part of the process. Rather than seeing obstacles as failure, this episode reframes them as useful feedback—and gives you a clear way to identify what might be getting in the way and how to move forward.

Mickey explains when it actually makes sense to troubleshoot (and when it doesn’t), outlines the three main layers where issues tend to arise, and walks through how to make thoughtful adjustments without creating more confusion.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. What troubleshooting really means—and why it doesn’t mean you’ve failed
  2. When to troubleshoot vs. when to give the process more time
  3. The three layers of troubleshooting: implementation, physiology, and medical factors
  4. Common challenges in each phase (transition, elimination, and reintroduction)
  5. Why lack of progress after 30–90 days may require a different approach
  6. How to avoid overcomplicating the process with too many changes at once
  7. Why mindset and patience play a key role in long-term success

Resources:
  1. The New Autoimmune Protocol (Book) – A practical guide to implementing AIP with a focus on preparation, sustainability, and personalization
  2. AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with food lists, meal plans, and beginner tools
  3. Episode 52: Tracking & Preparing for AIP

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why AIP doesn’t always go as expected

03:05 – What troubleshooting actually means

06:32 – When to troubleshoot—and when not to

09:51 – The three layers of troubleshooting

10:15 – Implementation challenges

11:58 – Physiological adjustments

13:41 – Underlying medical factors

14:57 – Troubleshooting across AIP phases

15:07 – Transition phase challenges

18:59 – Elimination phase troubleshooting

22:41 – Reintroduction phase challenges

25:19 – The mindset of troubleshooting

27:41 – Key takeaways and closing

The Menopause Gut with Cynthia Thurlow, NP (Ep 083)27 Apr 202600:53:44
Episode 83: The Menopause Gut — A Gut-Centered Approach to Perimenopause with Cynthia Thurlow, NP

What if the return of symptoms in midlife isn’t a setback—but a signal? What if shifting hormones during perimenopause and menopause are actively reshaping your gut, your immune system, and your resilience?

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, I’m joined by Cynthia Thurlow, nurse practitioner, bestselling author, and expert in perimenopause and metabolic health. Her new book, The Menopause Gut, explores how hormonal changes in midlife impact the microbiome, immune regulation, and inflammation—and what women can do to adapt.

This conversation is especially relevant for the autoimmune community. Many women experience stable symptoms for years, only to find new flares, food sensitivities, sleep disruption, or anxiety emerging in their 40s. We explore why this happens, how estrogen and progesterone shifts influence gut and immune function, and how to support your body through this transition with clarity and intention.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why perimenopause can trigger new autoimmune symptoms—even after years of stability
  2. How declining estrogen reshapes the gut microbiome and increases inflammation
  3. The connection between hormone fluctuations, histamine, and new food sensitivities
  4. Why perimenopause is a time of increased autoimmune risk (and what that means)
  5. How microbiome diversity influences immune tolerance and gut permeability
  6. The role of stress, sleep, and the nervous system in midlife immune health
  7. How bone density is connected to gut health and inflammation
  8. Why “gray area” foods can become more reactive during hormonal shifts
  9. Foundational strategies for supporting gut and immune health in midlife
  10. How hormone replacement therapy (HRT) fits into an autoimmune-aware approach

Resources:

Cynthia Thurlow, NP

  1. Website: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com
  2. Instagram: @cynthia_thurlow_
  3. Facebook: The Midlife Pause
  4. Podcast: Everyday Wellness
  5. Book: The Menopause Gut

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why midlife symptoms aren’t a failure of your protocol

02:25 – Introducing Cynthia Thurlow

04:20 – What perimenopause and menopause actually are

13:02 – How the microbiome changes in midlife

17:01 – Microbiome diversity and immune tolerance

22:47 – Estrogen, histamine, and new food sensitivities

30:57 – Bone density, inflammation, and gut health

37:37 – Practical strategies for gut and immune support

44:57 – Hormone replacement therapy and autoimmunity

50:31 – Wrap-up and closing

Kitchen Confidence: The Lazy Person’s AIP Meal Template | Small Bite (Ep 082)23 Apr 202600:16:10
Kitchen Confidence: The Lazy Person’s AIP Meal Template (Small Bite) | Episode 82

If you’ve ever felt like AIP requires too much thinking in the kitchen, you’re not wrong.

Between figuring out what to cook, how to combine ingredients, and whether you have what you need, relying on recipes for every meal can quickly become overwhelming.

But AIP doesn’t have to feel that complicated.

In this Small Bite episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott introduces a simpler approach: flexible meal templates that take the guesswork out of cooking.

Instead of starting from scratch every time, these templates give you a repeatable structure you can use with whatever ingredients you have on hand—making meals easier, faster, and more sustainable.

You’ll hear about:
  1. Why relying on recipes can increase decision fatigue
  2. How meal templates simplify everyday AIP cooking
  3. The foundational formula: protein + vegetables + fat
  4. How to batch cook and mix-and-match meals throughout the week
  5. The skillet meal method for quick, one-pan cooking
  6. How to layer ingredients for better texture and flavor
  7. The “fridge dump” soup and stew approach for using leftovers
  8. How to build a satisfying, balanced “big salad”
  9. Why flexible structure supports long-term consistency

You don’t need more recipes to succeed on AIP—you need a system that works on your busiest days.

Resources
  1. The New Autoimmune Protocol – Pre-Order

Episode Timeline

00:00 – Why AIP can feel like too much thinking

01:09 – Template 1: Protein + vegetables + fat

04:41 – Template 2: Skillet meal

08:16 – Template 3: Soup or stew

11:40 – Template 4: The big salad

14:00 – Recap & next steps

AIP Community Q2 Update: Events, Advocacy & Research (Ep 081)20 Apr 202600:32:47
Episode 81: AIP Community Update — Events, Advocacy & Research

Living with autoimmune disease is deeply personal—but the systems that shape diagnosis, treatment options, and long-term outcomes extend far beyond the individual. Research advancements, policy decisions, and community-led initiatives all play a role in what care looks like today—and what becomes possible in the future.

In this second Quarterly Community Update episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott zooms out to explore what’s currently unfolding across the autoimmune landscape. These quarterly conversations are designed to keep you informed and grounded—without overwhelm—so you can better understand the bigger picture while navigating your own healing journey.

This episode focuses on three key areas shaping autoimmune care in real time: research, advocacy, and community education. Mickey is joined by three returning contributors who bring both professional expertise and lived experience to these important conversations.

First, Sybil Cooper, PhD, immunologist and AIP Certified Coach, breaks down emerging research on CAR-T therapy—an innovative and highly targeted treatment approach that may transform how autoimmune disease is treated in the future.

Next, Jamie-Nicole Martin, chronic illness advocate and founder of the AIP BIPOC Network, shares insights from recent advocacy efforts in Washington, DC, along with updates on community-driven initiatives like the ROCK Summit and ROCK the Block, which aim to improve awareness, access, and equity in autoimmune care.

Finally, Jaime Hartman, National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach, AIP Summit organizer, and co-teacher of the AIP Certified Coach Program, discusses trends within the AIP community, including how coaching support is evolving and how more practitioners worldwide are integrating AIP into their work.

Together, these conversations highlight how innovation in research, progress in advocacy, and growth in community education are all interconnected—and why they matter for anyone living with autoimmune disease.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  • What CAR-T therapy is and why it represents a promising new direction in autoimmune treatment
  • How CAR-T differs from traditional systemic treatments by targeting specific immune cells
  • Why this research could shift the conversation from symptom management toward potential remission or cure
  • How advocacy efforts are pushing for increased autoimmune research funding and policy change
  • The role of the Office of Autoimmune Disease Research and why coordinated data matters
  • Common barriers patients face with insurance, including step therapy and copay policies
  • How community-based events like ROCK the Block and ROCK Summit are improving awareness and access
  • Why advocacy happens at both the individual and systems level—and how they connect
  • Where people commonly get stuck on AIP, especially during reintroductions
  • How AIP Certified Coaches provide personalized support to help navigate those challenges
  • How the AIP community is expanding globally, with more practitioners and diverse specialties
  • Practical ways to find AIP-trained support and connect with ongoing education

Resources:
Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction to the Quarterly Community Update series

01:10 – Meet the recurring contributors

02:31 – Research update with Sybil Cooper, PhD

03:07 – What is CAR-T therapy?

07:08 – Future implications of CAR-T for autoimmune disease

10:33 – Advocacy update with Jamie-Nicole Martin

11:25 – Autoimmune Association fly-in and policy efforts

16:25 – ROCK Summit & ROCK the Block recap

20:07 – Upcoming initiatives from AIP BIPOC Network

21:49 – Community trends with Jaime Hartman

22:47 – How AIP Certified Coaches support clients

25:59 – Trends in the current AIP coaching community

28:50 – How to find the right AIP Certified Coach

32:02 – Closing reflections and wrap-up

Flare to Flow: Emmitt Henderson III on Lupus, Identity, and Advocacy (Ep 080)16 Apr 202600:14:17
Episode 80: From Flare to Flow — Emmitt Henderson III on Lupus, Identity, and Advocacy

Healing stories are often told once there’s a clear path—but autoimmune life is often lived in uncertainty, advocacy, and difficult decisions.

In this episode, Mickey talks with Emmitt Henderson III, lupus patient and founder of Male Lupus Warriors, about navigating life with a complex and often misunderstood condition. Emmitt shares his decades-long journey to diagnosis, his experience living with lupus as a man, and what it’s like to face stage four kidney failure while continuing to advocate for others.

This conversation offers perspective for anyone navigating uncertainty, advocating for themselves in the medical system, or learning how to keep showing up—even when the path forward isn’t clear.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. What it’s like to live with lupus and face complications like kidney failure
  2. Why lupus is often misunderstood—especially in men
  3. How delays in diagnosis can shape the autoimmune experience
  4. What it means to advocate for yourself within the medical system
  5. How Emmitt stays motivated while navigating serious health challenges
  6. The role of community and representation in chronic illness
  7. What to know about kidney donation and donor exchange programs
  8. Why sharing your story can help others feel less alone
  9. How to stay grounded and keep going during uncertain seasons

Resources:
  1. Male Lupus Warriors Website
  2. Emmitt's Email: malelupuswarriors@gmail.com
  3. Autoimmune Association – Advocacy and autoimmune disease support
  4. Kidney Donation Screening

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction to Flare to Flow and living in uncertainty

01:15 – Meet Emmitt Henderson III

02:12 – Emmitt’s lupus diagnosis journey

05:08 – Navigating kidney failure and transplant uncertainty

06:29 – Advocacy and representation in autoimmune disease

08:11 – Understanding kidney donation and donor exchange

10:06 – Message for those struggling right now

11:12 – Male Lupus Warriors and community support

12:44 – Wrap-up and closing

Ask Mickey Anything: Your Biggest AIP Questions, Answered (Ep 079)13 Apr 202600:52:32
Episode 79: Ask Mickey Anything — Your Biggest AIP Questions, Answered

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “doing AIP right,” you’re not alone.

From navigating the early days of elimination to troubleshooting plateaus, managing low energy, and figuring out how to make this work in real life—there are so many questions that come up along the way.

In this special Q&A episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey answers listener-submitted questions from across the community, covering both the practical and emotional sides of the Autoimmune Protocol.

She walks through common challenges like symptom flare-ups in the first few weeks, what to do if you’re not seeing results, how to handle reintroductions without fear, and how to make AIP sustainable long term. She also dives into bigger-picture topics like personalization, research, and the future of autoimmune care.

This episode is a reminder that AIP isn’t about perfection—it’s about learning, adapting, and finding what works for your body over time.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why symptoms can temporarily worsen in the first weeks of AIP
  2. How to troubleshoot when you’re not seeing improvement after 1–2 months
  3. Common reasons AIP “isn’t working” (and what to look at first)
  4. How to navigate low energy, flares, or limited capacity for cooking
  5. Practical strategies for eating out or using meal shortcuts on AIP
  6. How to think about supplements, fillers, and what’s actually necessary
  7. Why fear around reintroductions is common—and how to move forward safely
  8. How to approach reintroductions without triggering anxiety or over-restriction
  9. What to do after a failed reintroduction (and how to continue progressing)
  10. How to make AIP sustainable long term without feeling deprived
  11. The relationship between structure and bio-individuality in AIP
  12. What the research says about common trigger foods
  13. Why AIP is not a replacement for medical care or medication
  14. How to advocate for more autoimmune research and better care

Resources:
  1. The New Autoimmune Protocol (Book + Preorder Community)
  2. Episode 58: The 3 Meal Safety Net
  3. Urban AIP Meal Delivery
  4. Autoimmune Association
  5. AIP BIPOC Network

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction to the Q&A episode

01:22 – Is it normal for symptoms to worsen early on AIP?

05:02 – Two months on AIP with no improvement

11:04 – Real-life barriers: energy, cooking, and access

17:36 – Supplements and AIP compatibility

22:43 – Fear of reintroductions

27:43 – Reintroduction strategy and failed attempts

32:53 – Getting back to AIP after life changes

38:17 – Personalization vs protocol structure

41:33 – Common trigger foods and medication expectations

46:20 – Troubleshooting setbacks and research advocacy

51:21 – Wrap-up and closing

Kitchen Confidence: 5 AIP Flavor Boosters That Make Everything Taste Better | Small Bite (Ep 078)09 Apr 202600:16:11
Kitchen Confidence: 5 AIP Flavor Boosters That Make Everything Taste Better (Small Bite) | Episode 78

If you’ve ever started AIP and thought your meals taste a little flat or repetitive, you’re not alone.

One of the biggest challenges—especially early on—is learning how to create satisfying, flavorful meals with a more limited ingredient list. And when food isn’t enjoyable, it becomes much harder to stay consistent.

In this Small Bite episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott breaks down five simple, practical ways to build flavor in your AIP kitchen—without complicated recipes or extra effort.

These foundational techniques can be layered into meals you’re already making, helping your food feel more balanced, interesting, and deeply satisfying.

You’ll hear about:
  1. Why flavor matters for long-term AIP sustainability
  2. How acid brightens and balances rich or heavy meals
  3. Why fresh herbs are one of the most powerful (and overlooked) tools
  4. How fermented foods add both tang and depth
  5. The role of aromatics in building a strong flavor foundation
  6. What umami is and how to incorporate it on AIP
  7. Simple ways to upgrade everyday meals without extra complexity
  8. Why small changes can dramatically improve how your food tastes

Flavorful cooking on AIP doesn’t require more effort—it just requires the right building blocks.

Resources
  1. The New Autoimmune Protocol – Pre-Order
  2. AIP Foundation Series (Free Email Course)
  3. The Nutrient-Dense Kitchen

Episode Timeline

00:00 – Why AIP meals can feel repetitive

01:54 – Flavor Booster #1: Acid

04:18 – Flavor Booster #2: Fresh herbs

07:36 – Flavor Booster #3: Fermented foods & brine

10:30 – Flavor Booster #4: Aromatics

12:39 – Flavor Booster #5: Umami

14:15 – Recap & practical next steps


How to Build a Nutrient-Dense Plate | Deep Dive (Ep 077)06 Apr 202600:33:36
Episode 77: How to Build a Nutrient-Dense Plate | Deep Dive

If you’ve spent any time learning about the Autoimmune Protocol, you’ve probably heard the phrase nutrient density come up again and again. But knowing that nutrient density matters—and actually putting it into practice—are two very different things.

Because when you’re in your kitchen, planning meals or staring into your fridge, the real question isn’t what is nutrient density? It’s: What does a nutrient-dense plate actually look like?

In this episode of the AIP Deep Dive series, Mickey breaks down how to build meals that consistently support healing, energy, and long-term health—without overcomplicating the process. She walks through both the science and the practical application, helping you move from theory into everyday implementation.

Mickey explores how macronutrients and micronutrients work together, highlights the most nutrient-dense food categories, and shares her own simple framework for planning meals that are nourishing, varied, and sustainable.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why nutrient density is foundational to healing diets
  2. How macronutrients (protein, carbs, fat) support energy, metabolism, and immune function
  3. Why protein is the anchor of a nutrient-dense plate
  4. The role of carbohydrates in thyroid health, energy, and recovery
  5. Why fat is essential for hormones, absorption, and satiety
  6. What micronutrients are and why they drive healing at the cellular level
  7. How phytonutrients and “eating the rainbow” support the microbiome and inflammation balance
  8. Why fiber is critical for gut health and immune regulation
  9. The role of fermented foods in increasing microbial diversity
  10. How omega-3 rich seafood supports an anti-inflammatory gut environment
  11. The truth about organ meats and other nutrient-dense traditional foods
  12. How to think about nutrient density across a week (instead of perfecting every meal)
  13. A simple 5-step framework for building nutrient-dense meals in real life
  14. Why sustainability matters more than perfection when it comes to healing

Resources:

  1. Episode 65: Nutrient Density Research Breakdown
  2. The New Autoimmune Protocol (Book) – A practical guide to building nutrient-dense, flexible AIP meals for real life. Includes recipes, meal templates, and strategies for sustainable healing.
  3. AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with beginner tools, food lists, and meal planning support.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why nutrient density matters in practice

02:17 – Macronutrients overview: protein, carbs, fat

03:02 – Protein: needs, function, and why it anchors your plate

05:55 – Carbohydrates: energy, thyroid, and common misconceptions

07:48 – Fat: hormone support, absorption, and satiety

09:23 – Micronutrients: where healing really happens

11:20 – Phytonutrients and eating the rainbow

13:05 – Fiber and microbiome support

15:08 – Microbiome-supporting foods overview

15:36 – Fermented foods and microbial diversity

17:37 – Omega-3 seafood and inflammation balance

19:43 – Organ meats and nutrient density myths

22:00 – Bone broth and traditional foods

24:30 – How to apply this in real life

25:09 – Step 1: Start with protein

26:02 – Step 2: Plan vegetables and fruits

26:48 – Step 3: Add fermented foods

27:43 – Step 4: High-polyphenol smoothies

28:56 – Step 5: Simple meal templates

30:49 – Optional nutrient boosters

31:18 – Key takeaways and sustainability focus

AIP in Real Life: Eating Differently Without Making it a Big Deal (Ep 076)02 Apr 202600:19:37
Episode 76: AIP in Real Life — Eating Differently Without Making It a Big Deal

Eating differently can feel like a much bigger deal than it actually is.

Not because of the food itself—but because of the social dynamics around it. Dinner parties. Work lunches. Family holidays. First dates. Travel. The subtle pressure to explain. The awkwardness of declining. The internal negotiation about how much to share and how much to keep private.

In Episode 76 of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott begins a new Small Bite series called AIP in Real Life—conversations about what it actually looks like to live this way long-term. Not just the food lists or the science, but the social navigation, mindset shifts, and emotional maturity that develop over time.

Drawing on 15 years of personal experience living with AIP, Mickey shares practical strategies for eating differently without turning every gathering into a conversation about your health. This episode is about learning how to communicate clearly, hold boundaries calmly, and participate fully—without overexplaining, apologizing, or making your food choices the headline of the room. AIP in Real Life_ Eating Differ…

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why eating differently feels relational—not just logistical
  2. How to reduce social stress by deciding before you arrive
  3. Practical strategies for restaurants, dinner parties, holidays, and travel
  4. Why short explanations build more confidence than long ones
  5. The difference between gratitude and apology
  6. How to participate socially without compromising your health
  7. What to say when someone pressures you to “just have a little”
  8. Why consistency speaks louder than debate
  9. How identity shifts over time when living with AIP
  10. How to integrate dietary boundaries without making them your identity

Resources
  1. The New Autoimmune Protocol – Pre-Order

Episode Timeline

00:00 – Why eating differently feels bigger than it is

02:34 – Why this feels so hard (belonging & communication)

04:01 – Decide before you arrive

08:57 – Keep explanations short

11:04 – Gratitude is not the same as apology

12:36 – Participation over perfection

15:25 – Accept that not everyone will understand

17:19 – Identity shifts & long-term integration

18:57 – Wrap-up & book mention

Life After AIP: Building Your Long-Term Maintenance Plan | Deep Dive (Ep 075)30 Mar 202600:27:29
Episode 75: Life After AIP — Building Your Long-Term Maintenance Plan | Deep Dive

What does life actually look like after you complete the Autoimmune Protocol?

Once you’ve moved through Transition, Elimination, and Reintroduction, it’s natural to ask: Now what? Are you supposed to eat this way forever? What happens if your health shifts? And how do you apply what you’ve learned to real-life situations like stress, travel, celebrations, or aging?

In this Deep Dive episode, Mickey explains what it really means to “finish” AIP and how to build a long-term maintenance plan that is flexible, sustainable, and personalized. Rather than viewing AIP as something you complete and leave behind, this episode reframes it as a framework you carry forward—one that helps you move up and down the spectrum of structure and flexibility as your health evolves.

Mickey shares how to think about post-AIP eating, what a return to AIP can look like during a flare, how to use AIP principles beyond food, and why combining medical care with dietary strategy is essential for long-term autoimmune management.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. What it really means to “finish” AIP
  2. How to transition from rules to a personalized dietary philosophy
  3. Why post-AIP eating is hyper-personalized—not a single universal diet
  4. How to think about returning to AIP without all-or-nothing thinking
  5. The “batten down the hatches vs. unfurl the sails” framework
  6. How to apply AIP principles beyond food
  7. Why medical care and AIP should always work together
  8. How to build a long-term approach that fits your real life
  9. What life after AIP can look like 15 years into an autoimmune journey

Resources:

Referenced Episodes:

  1. Episode 51: The Autoimmune Protocol in 2026 (Full Overview)
  2. Episode 52: Transition Phase | Deep Dive
  3. Episode 53: Elimination Phase | Deep Dive
  4. Episode 54: Reintroduction Phase | Deep Dive
  5. Episode 55: Nutrient Density & Lifestyle Foundations
  6. Episode 56: Healing Update

AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, reintroduction charts, and beginner tools.

The New Autoimmune Protocol (Book) – The updated, flexible, and realistic guide to implementing AIP in real life.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – What does life after AIP look like?

03:18 – What does it mean to “finish” AIP?

06:58 – A post-AIP dietary philosophy (personalized eating)

10:33 – What a return to AIP can look like

13:11 – Batten down the hatches vs. unfurl the sails

17:41 – Using AIP principles beyond food

20:11 – Combining medical care with AIP (both-and approach)

22:36 – Building a sustainable long-term life

24:23 – Life after AIP, 15 years in

26:18 – Wrap-up & encouragement

Beyond the Recipe: Magic Chili with Marie-Noelle of Urban AIP | Small Bite (Ep 074)26 Mar 202600:18:14
Episode 74: Beyond the Recipe — Magic Chili with Marie-Noelle of Urban AIP (Small Bite)

If you’ve ever thought starting AIP meant saying goodbye to your favorite comfort foods forever, this episode is for you.

In this Beyond the Recipe Small Bite episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott continues the mini-series exploring how AIP recipes actually work in real life—not just on paper. These conversations go deeper than ingredients and instructions to unpack why certain recipes succeed, how to adapt them, and what makes them sustainable long-term.

Mickey is joined by Marie-Noelle Marquis, Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, AIP Certified Coach, and founder of Urban AIP, to talk through one of the most surprising comfort food wins in the AIP world: Magic Chili.

This isn’t just a tomato-free chili. It’s a deeply savory, rich, red, nightshade-free meal that delivers comfort without beans, paprika, chili powder, or tomatoes—and somehow no one misses them.

Together, they explore how this recipe works from both a home kitchen perspective and at production scale through Urban AIP’s therapeutic meal delivery service, and why this chili has become a customer favorite.

This episode is about abundance over restriction: how to recreate nostalgic flavors, build depth without nightshades, and turn a single recipe into a flexible template for real-life healing.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why comfort foods don’t have to disappear on AIP
  2. How grated beet creates rich color and depth without tasting “beet-y”
  3. The flavor architecture behind a nightshade-free chili
  4. How caramelized onions, bone broth, oregano, and cinnamon build complexity
  5. Why visual cues (like deep red color) matter in satisfaction
  6. What changes when scaling a recipe from 6 servings to 100
  7. How Urban AIP maintains quality and flavor at production level
  8. Why chili is such a powerful comfort food during elimination
  9. Easy protein swaps (turkey, bison, venison, lamb)
  10. How to use the chili base as a template for other nightshade-free meals
  11. What makes Urban AIP’s therapeutic meal delivery unique

Resources:

Magic Chili Recipe – Full recipe from The Nutrient-Dense Kitchen

The Nutrient-Dense Kitchen Cookbook by Mickey Trescott

Urban AIP Meal Delivery by Marie-Noelle Marquis

Urban AIP on Instagram

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Rethinking chili without tomatoes, beans, or nightshades

01:19 – Introducing Marie-Noelle Marquis of Urban AIP

02:13 – Why Magic Chili belongs on the Urban AIP menu

05:02 – The beet base and building depth without tomatoes

07:36 – Scaling from home kitchen to commercial production

10:51 – Protein swaps and recipe versatility

11:49 – Urban AIP’s therapeutic meal delivery approach

17:42 – Final reflections on abundance and creativity in AIP cooking

What I’d Do Differently if Starting AIP Today (Ep 073)23 Mar 202600:26:04
Episode 73: What I’d Do Differently If Starting AIP Today

If Mickey were starting the Autoimmune Protocol today—not in 2011 during the middle of a health crisis, but now with more than a decade of lived experience, research, and clinical insight—there are several things she would approach differently.

Not because AIP doesn’t work, and not because she regrets the path she took. In fact, AIP was the turning point that helped her regain her health after being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s and celiac disease. But over the years, her understanding of healing has evolved. The science around AIP has matured, the community has grown, and the tools available to people starting today are far more structured and supportive than they were in the early days.

In this reflective episode, Mickey shares the biggest shifts she would make if she were beginning AIP today—from how she would track symptoms and approach nutrient density to how she would think about fatigue, identity, community, and the long timeline of healing.

Rather than focusing only on food elimination, this episode reframes AIP as a broader process of rebuilding health—one that includes nourishment, medical partnership, emotional adaptation, and long-term sustainability.

Mickey also shares how these lessons informed her upcoming book, The New Autoimmune Protocol, and explains the new community experience she’s launching to guide people through the transition phase before beginning elimination together as a group.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why Mickey would start tracking symptoms from day one
  2. Why focusing on nutrient repletion can be more important than restriction
  3. The key nutrient-dense foods that made the biggest difference in her healing
  4. Why continuing to advocate for proper medical care matters alongside diet
  5. How medication and lifestyle changes can work together in autoimmune recovery
  6. The emotional identity shift that often comes with chronic illness
  7. How AIP can remain a tool without becoming your identity
  8. Why community support can dramatically improve the healing process
  9. How to set realistic expectations for recovery timelines
  10. Why progress is best measured in months and years—not weeks

Resources:

Episode 52: How to Track Symptoms on AIP

Episode 56: Mickey’s Healing Update

The New Autoimmune Protocol (Book) – A modern guide to implementing AIP today, including transition strategies, personalization, and sustainable long-term healing. Available for pre-order wherever books are sold.

Pre-Order Community – When you pre-order the book and submit your receipt at theautoimmuneprotocol.com/preorder, you’ll gain access to a private community, exclusive recipes, live Q&A sessions, and a guided Transition Phase in May leading up to a coordinated AIP start on June 1.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why Mickey would approach AIP differently today

01:08 – Introduction and context for this reflection

03:22 – Why journaling from day one matters

06:16 – Nutrient repletion before restriction

08:31 – Advocating medically and personalizing care sooner

10:36 – Grieving the identity shift of chronic illness

12:41 – Respecting fatigue instead of pushing through

14:05 – Why AIP shouldn’t become your identity

16:06 – The importance of finding community support

18:11 – Measuring progress in months and years

20:07 – The bigger mindset shift around long-term healing

22:00 – The New Autoimmune Protocol pre-order community announcement

24:59 – Closing reflections and invitation to join the community

Mind-Body Minute: Meditation with Michele Spring (Ep 72)19 Mar 202600:15:50
Episode 73: Mind-Body Minute — Beginner Meditation with Michele Spring

Meditation is one of those practices that almost everyone recommends—especially in the autoimmune world. We know nervous system regulation matters. We know stress impacts inflammation. We know slowing down is important.

And yet, actually sitting down to meditate can feel surprisingly difficult. Instead of calm, you might feel restless. Instead of clarity, your thoughts get louder. Instead of relaxation, your body feels uncomfortable.

For many women living with autoimmune disease, this makes perfect sense. When your nervous system has been on high alert for a long time—monitoring symptoms, managing flares, juggling responsibilities—stillness can feel unfamiliar, even unsafe.

In this Mind-Body Minute, Mickey is joined by AIP Certified Coach, Qigong and yoga teacher Michele Spring to talk about why meditation feels hard, what’s actually happening in the nervous system when we try to slow down, and how to begin in a way that feels supportive instead of frustrating.

This conversation reframes meditation as a practice of building safety and awareness—rather than clearing your mind or doing it “perfectly.”

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
  1. Why meditation can trigger anxiety instead of calm
  2. How nervous system dysregulation makes stillness feel unsafe
  3. What meditation actually is (and what it isn’t)
  4. Why you don’t need to clear your mind to meditate
  5. How moving meditation (like Qigong) can be more accessible than sitting still
  6. A simple way to start with just 30 seconds
  7. How to structure a meditation habit so it actually sticks

Resources:
  1. Free Guided Meditation – Michele’s calming nervous system meditation
  2. Michele on Instagram – @ThrivingAutoimmune
  3. Michele on YouTube – Michele Spring (Thriving Autoimmune)

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why meditation feels so hard

01:26 – Meet Michele Spring

02:34 – Nervous system dysregulation and stillness

06:27 – What meditation really is (and common misconceptions)

10:13 – How to get started if meditation hasn’t stuck

11:57 – Structuring a sustainable practice

13:34 – Free guided meditation invitation

14:39 – Where to connect with Michele

The Root Cause of IBS with Izabella Wentz, PharmD (Ep 071)16 Mar 202600:42:03
Episode 71: The Root Cause of IBS — Interview with Izabella Wentz, PharmD

What if IBS isn’t a true diagnosis—but a placeholder? What if bloating, cramping, urgency, constipation, diarrhea, and food reactions aren’t signs that your body is “too sensitive,” but clues that something specific and treatable is being missed?

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Izabella Wentz, integrative pharmacist, bestselling author, and longtime leader in the root-cause approach to chronic illness. Many of you know her work in the Hashimoto’s community—but her newest book turns that same investigative lens toward digestive health.

Izabella’s latest book, Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, challenges the idea that IBS is a final answer. Instead, she reframes it as the beginning of a deeper investigation—one that considers bacterial overgrowth, enzyme deficiencies, nutrient depletion, intestinal permeability, medication side effects, food intolerances, thyroid dysfunction, and more.

This conversation is especially relevant for the autoimmune community. Many people who go on to develop autoimmune disease report years—sometimes even a decade—of digestive symptoms before receiving a diagnosis. We explore why that overlap exists, what IBS may be masking, and how improving gut health may shift the trajectory of long-term immune health.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why IBS is often a “label,” not a root cause
  2. The research showing most IBS cases have identifiable, treatable drivers
  3. How IBS can precede autoimmune disease by 5–10+ years
  4. The role of intestinal permeability in autoimmunity
  5. When IBS may actually be SIBO, celiac disease, IBD, enzyme dysfunction, or something else
  6. The difference between IBS and IBD—and red flags you shouldn’t ignore
  7. How nutrient deficiencies like zinc, glutamine, thiamine, carnitine, and magnesium impact digestion
  8. Why fiber works for some people—and makes others worse
  9. How polyphenols, fermented foods, and microbiome balance fit into healing
  10. Medications that can contribute to constipation, diarrhea, or gut lining damage
  11. Foundational gut practices that support digestion for everyone

Resources:

Izabella Wentz, PharmD

  1. Website: https://thyroidpharmacist.com
  2. Instagram: @izabellawentzpharmd
  3. Facebook: Thyroid Lifestyle
  4. Podcast: Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations

Book: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Is IBS a diagnosis—or a placeholder?

01:34 – Introducing Izabella Wentz

03:38 – Why IBS is often a label, not a root cause

11:07 – When IBS is actually something else

14:01 – Food reactions: IBS vs autoimmune sensitivities

18:35 – Why IBS and autoimmunity overlap

20:10 – IBS vs IBD: knowing the difference

23:09 – Nutrient deficiencies and digestive dysfunction

28:40 – Fiber, fermented foods & polyphenols

32:56 – Medications that contribute to IBS

35:08 – Gut health foundations for everyone

38:12 – Wrap-up and closing

Practitioner Perspectives: Autoimmune Flares & Gut Issues with Mariu Cabral | Small Bite (Ep 070)12 Mar 202600:18:25
Practitioner Perspectives: Autoimmune Flares & Gut Issues with Mariu Cabral (Small Bite) | Episode 70

When you’re navigating autoimmune disease and IBS at the same time, it can feel confusing fast.

You clean up your diet. You follow AIP carefully. And yet you’re still bloated, constipated, dealing with urgency, or wondering whether what you’re experiencing is an autoimmune flare, a gut flare, or something else entirely.

In this Small Bite episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott is joined by Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and AIP Certified Coach Mariu Cabral for a grounded conversation about what’s actually happening in real-life practice with clients who have both autoimmune disease and gut issues.

This is the first in a Practitioner Perspectives series focused on IBS — highlighting what’s showing up right now in the autoimmune community, what’s working, and where nuance matters most.

Together, they explore how autoimmune flares and gut flares often overlap, why mealtime habits can be just as important as food choices, and how to navigate AIP when common “healthy” foods don’t feel good in your body.

You’ll hear about:
  1. Why autoimmune flares and gut flares often happen together
  2. How eating in a stressed or distracted state can trigger symptoms
  3. Why chewing thoroughly can dramatically improve digestion
  4. The difference between autoimmune trigger foods and IBS trigger foods
  5. Why IBS triggers are often about quantity, preparation, and context
  6. How cooking methods (like steaming vs. roasting) affect digestibility
  7. How to personalize AIP when fibrous vegetables and ferments cause symptoms
  8. Why the elimination phase can ultimately support gut healing
  9. How to honor cultural foods while managing IBS and autoimmune disease
  10. Why healing must include safety, identity, and joy around food

This episode is a reminder that struggling with digestion on AIP doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means your body needs personalization, not perfection.

Resources

Mariu Cabral Website: https://mariucabral.com

Follow Mariu on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariucabral

Follow Mariu on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mariucabral.ntp

Mariu Cabral on Substack: https://mariucabral.substack.com/

Episode Timeline

00:00 – When autoimmune and gut symptoms collide

01:22 – Introducing Mariu Cabral

02:22 – What’s showing up in practice right now

04:18 – Why mealtime stress triggers gut flares

05:49 – IBS vs. autoimmune trigger foods

07:51 – Why fibrous vegetables can be tricky on AIP

09:43 – Cooking methods and digestibility

10:22 – Why AIP can ultimately support digestion

12:32 – Two simple digestion habits that change everything

14:26 – When Modified AIP may help

15:02 – Honoring cultural foods during healing

17:01 – Final reflections and where to connect

How to Choose: Core vs. Modified AIP Elimination Phase | Deep Dive (Ep 069)09 Mar 202600:27:14
Episode 69: Core vs. Modified AIP Elimination Phase — How to Choose | Deep Dive

If you’re learning about the Autoimmune Protocol for the first time—or revisiting it after trying it years ago—one question almost always comes up during the Elimination Phase:

Should I start with Core AIP or Modified AIP?

It sounds like a simple choice, but for many people it feels loaded. Some wonder which version will “work better.” Others worry about sustainability, cost, cultural fit, or whether they can realistically maintain the structure long enough to see results.

In this episode of the AIP Deep Dive series, Mickey breaks down the key differences between Core and Modified AIP, explains why both versions exist, and walks you through how to decide which one is the best fit for you right now. Rather than framing the choice as a matter of willpower or commitment, this episode reframes it as a question of context, sustainability, and nutrient density.

Mickey also discusses who each version tends to work best for, what the research currently says (and doesn’t say), how Modified AIP evolved from real-world use, and how to transition between versions if needed.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why the Core vs. Modified question exists today
  2. What is removed on Core AIP and how it differs from Modified
  3. Which foods are included in Modified AIP and why
  4. Who Core AIP tends to work best for
  5. Why Modified AIP is now the recommended starting point for most people
  6. How accessibility, affordability, and cultural relevance factor into your decision
  7. The research reality behind both versions
  8. Why nutrient density matters regardless of which version you choose
  9. How to transition from Modified to Core if needed
  10. Why fit and sustainability matter more than perfection

Resources:

Referenced Episodes:

  1. Episode 53: The Elimination Phase Explained (Deep Dive)
  2. Episode 55: Nutrient Density & Lifestyle Changes – Essential to All Phases of AIP

AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists for both Core and Modified AIP, reintroduction charts, meal plans, and beginner tools.

The New Autoimmune Protocol (Book) – The first AIP resource built to reflect the updated Modified AIP framework while prioritizing nutrient density and therapeutic principles. Available for pre-order wherever books are sold.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Core vs. Modified: why this question matters

02:16 – Elimination Phase overview at a glance

03:21 – What is removed on Core AIP

04:07 – What’s included on Modified AIP

05:09 – Timeline reminder & Foundation Series reference

06:21 – Why Modified AIP was created

08:30 – Who Core AIP tends to work best for

10:36 – Why Modified AIP is recommended for most people

11:38 – Accessibility & affordability considerations

12:27 – Modified AIP for vegetarians, active individuals & weight restoration

14:28 – The research reality: what we know and what’s next

16:22 – The biggest tradeoff: nutrient density

18:39 – What happens to existing Core AIP resources

20:47 – A note on known sensitivities

21:54 – Cultural relevance and making AIP your own

23:40 – Transitioning from Modified to Core

25:33 – Closing recap & book pre-order

Beyond the Recipe: Cilantro Coconut Chicken and Rice with Mary | Small Bite (Ep 068)05 Mar 202600:15:35
Episode 68: Beyond the Recipe — Creamy Cilantro Chicken and Rice with Mary (Small Bite)

If you’ve ever looked at a nourishing AIP-friendly recipe and thought, this sounds great, but I don’t have the energy for multiple pans and a sink full of dishes, this episode is for you.

In this Kitchen Confidence Small Bite episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott continues the Beyond the Recipe mini-series—conversations that go beyond instructions to explore why certain recipes work so well in real life, especially on low-energy days, and how they help reduce friction around feeding yourself well.

Mickey is joined by her longtime friend Mary to talk through a comforting, one-pot favorite: Creamy Cilantro Chicken and Rice. Adapted from a New York Times Cooking recipe and reworked for Modified AIP, this Dutch oven meal is designed to be both deeply nourishing and genuinely doable. Together, they unpack why one-pot meals matter so much for people managing autoimmune disease, how rice fits into Modified AIP, and why simplicity often makes the biggest difference in consistency.

This episode is about more than a recipe—it’s about lowering the barrier to eating well, building confidence in the kitchen, and choosing methods that support real life, not perfection.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why one-pot meals are a powerful tool for reducing decision fatigue
  2. What makes Creamy Cilantro Chicken and Rice so supportive for Modified AIP
  3. How rice can increase satiety and comfort without adding complexity
  4. Why Dutch oven cooking builds confidence and flexibility in the kitchen
  5. Tips for stovetop-to-oven meals with minimal cleanup
  6. How to safely and confidently use cast iron and enameled Dutch ovens
  7. Ideas for leftovers, reheating, and stretching meals across multiple days
  8. How simple cooking methods support long-term consistency with AIP

Resources:
  1. The Recipe: Cilantro Coconut Chicken and Rice
  2. Lodge Enameled Cast Iron
  3. Staub Cast Iron
  4. Le Creuset Cast Iron
  5. The New Autoimmune Protocol – Pre-Order

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why low-energy cooking matters more than knowing what to eat

01:13 – Introducing the Beyond the Recipe series and today’s dish

01:58 – Guest introduction: Mary and a long-standing Hashimoto’s friendship

02:44 – Visual walkthrough of Creamy Cilantro Chicken and Rice

03:38 – Why this recipe works in real life

05:10 – The role of rice in Modified AIP and satisfaction

06:52 – Dutch oven cooking: stovetop to oven confidence

08:45 – Cast iron brands, sizes, and accessibility

09:57 – Safety tips when cooking with Dutch ovens

11:20 – Cleaning as you go and reducing kitchen overwhelm

13:12 – Leftovers, reheating, and multi-meal planning

13:56 – Final takeaways on simplicity, confidence, and sustainability

Starting an Autoimmune-Friendly Movement Routine: Interview with Beth Connor, PT (Ep 067)02 Mar 202600:33:05
Episode 67: Starting an Autoimmune-Friendly Movement Routine — Interview with Beth Connor, PT

Movement can feel complicated when you’re living with autoimmune disease—especially if your body no longer tolerates exercise the way it once did. Questions like how much is enough, what’s too much, and how to start safely can leave many people stuck between doing nothing and overdoing it.

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, I’m joined by Beth Trimark-Connor, a licensed physical therapist, certified personal trainer, and lifelong athlete who specializes in helping people rebuild strength safely after illness, injury, and major life transitions.

Beth holds a degree in human physiology from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. She has completed extensive additional training in strength and conditioning, endurance coaching, nutrition, and evidence-based menopause coaching. Her work bridges the gap between rehabilitation and real-life strength, with a special focus on people navigating autoimmune disease, menopause, injury recovery, and fluctuating capacity.

Beth also brings lived experience to her work, managing her own celiac disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. That perspective deeply informs her compassionate, practical approach to movement—one rooted in safety, realism, and long-term sustainability rather than pushing through symptoms.

In our conversation, we focus on how to start a movement routine from scratch in a way that feels supportive and adaptable to real life. Instead of prescribing workouts, Beth shares a framework for reconnecting with movement through curiosity, capacity awareness, and gradual habit-building.

Download the worksheets mentioned in this episode!

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. How to begin a movement routine when exercise feels intimidating or unsafe
  2. Why starting with your personal “why” matters more than specific exercises
  3. How to assess real-life capacity, energy, and constraints
  4. Why starting smaller than you think leads to better long-term outcomes
  5. How to use perceived exertion to guide safe intensity
  6. Why tracking data—not judgment—supports consistency
  7. How autoimmune disease and menopause can overlap in the body
  8. How to adapt movement on low-energy or high-stress days
  9. Why movement should feel like a relationship, not a rulebook

Resources:
  1. Beth Trimark-Connor, PT: Website: https://gotrainingwithbeth.com, Instagram & Facebook
  2. Autoimmune Wellness Movement Resources: Download Beth’s movement self-assessment, tracker, and companion worksheets.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why movement feels hard with autoimmune disease

01:43 – Introducing Beth Trimark-Connor

05:50 – Step 1: Start with your “why”

09:54 – Step 2: Assess real-life capacity and constraints

12:27 – Step 3: Start smaller than you think

19:25 – Building a daily check-in routine

20:48 – Tracking data without judgment

26:30 – Pre-solving problems so life doesn’t derail you

30:55 – Recap, key takeaways, and next steps

Kitchen Confidence: Your AIP Kitchen Starter Kit | Small Bite (Ep 066)26 Feb 202600:24:58
Kitchen Confidence: Your AIP Kitchen Starter Kit (Small Bite) | Episode 66

If you’re starting AIP — or refining your approach — it’s easy to assume you need to buy new ingredients, new tools, or completely overhaul your kitchen before you begin.

But sustainable success on AIP doesn’t start with buying more. It starts with clarity.

In this Small Bite episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott walks you through how to set up your kitchen in a way that supports you through Transition, Elimination, Reintroduction, and long-term maintenance.

From clearing out visual clutter to stocking foundational pantry items and choosing tools that truly matter, this episode focuses on building an environment that reduces friction, protects your energy, and makes cooking feel more manageable.

You’ll hear about:
  1. Why kitchen setup directly impacts AIP sustainability
  2. Why clearing and organizing comes before buying anything new
  3. How to handle “not-right-now” foods during elimination
  4. The core pantry staples that make simple meals possible
  5. Cooking fats that are foundational for both Core and Modified AIP
  6. Flavor builders that prevent boredom and increase adherence
  7. Why shelf-stable proteins are essential for low-capacity days
  8. What tools actually matter (and what you don’t need)
  9. How to create a prep zone that reduces decision fatigue
  10. Why maintenance and organization protect your energy

Kitchen confidence isn’t about culinary skill — it’s about preparation.

Resources
  1. The AIP Foundation Series (Free Email Course)
  2. The New Autoimmune Protocol – Pre-Order
  3. AIP Kitchen Tour Series

Episode Timeline

00:00 – Why kitchen setup impacts AIP success

02:28 – Clear before you add

05:49 – Removing “not-right-now” foods

07:51 – Boxing up “maybe later” foods

09:43 – Building a simplified AIP pantry

11:13 – Cooking fats (non-negotiable)

12:32 – Acids and umami flavor builders

13:18 – Shelf-stable proteins that save the day

14:11 – Spices and simple flavor foundations

15:02 – What you don’t need to prioritize

16:43 – Essential kitchen tools

19:27 – Helpful (but optional) upgrades

21:06 – Setting up your space for success

23:28 – AIP Kitchen Tour inspiration

24:10 – Recap & wrap-up

AIP for Hashimoto’s: The Polish Study on Nutrient-Density, Symptoms & Thyroid Health (Ep 065)23 Feb 202600:35:07
Episode 65: AIP for Hashimoto’s – The Polish Study on Nutrient Density, Symptoms & Thyroid Health

What happens when researchers outside the AIP community independently decide to study the Autoimmune Protocol in an academic setting? In this episode, Mickey breaks down a 2023 research trial from Poland that evaluated AIP for people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis who were euthyroid on paper—but still highly symptomatic.

As part of the AIP Medical Research Review Series, this episode explores the second published clinical study on AIP for Hashimoto’s. The Polish research team examined not only symptoms and thyroid labs, but also nutrient intake, body composition, and thyroid ultrasound findings—adding new layers of insight beyond earlier research.

This episode walks through how the study was designed, what changed after 12 weeks on AIP, and how the results compare to the Abbott pilot trial. The findings offer compelling evidence that nutrient density, inflammation reduction, and symptom improvement can occur even when thyroid labs remain within normal ranges.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why Polish researchers decided to study AIP after the Abbott trial
  2. Who participated in the study and how the AIP intervention was structured
  3. How nutrient density changed without calorie restriction
  4. What happened to thyroid hormones, antibodies, and thyroid gland volume
  5. How body weight and body fat shifted over 12 weeks
  6. Which Hashimoto’s symptoms improved most significantly
  7. Why symptom relief often matters more than antibody changes
  8. What this study adds to the growing body of AIP research

References

Abbott, R. D., Sadowski, A., & Alt, A. G. (2019). Efficacy of the Autoimmune Protocol Diet as Part of a Multidisciplinary, Supported Lifestyle Intervention for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Cureus, 11(4), e4556.

Krysiak, R., Kowalcze, K., Okopień, B., & Gdula-Dymek, A. (2023). Effects of an Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet on Changes in Thyroid Parameters in Hashimoto’s Disease. Nutrients, 15(9), 2101.

Resources:
  1. AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, beginner resources, and updates on new AIP research
  2. The New Autoimmune Protocol (Preorder) – Mickey Trescott’s upcoming book translating the latest AIP science into a practical, modern guide

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction & why this Polish study matters

02:16 – Study overview and research goals

03:54 – Hashimoto’s refresher: euthyroid but symptomatic

05:05 – Key questions the researchers wanted to answer

06:23 – Participant profile and exclusion criteria

07:23 – AIP intervention design and duration

10:15 – Clinical measures and nutritional analysis

13:11 – Nutrient density results

15:54 – Thyroid hormones, antibodies & ultrasound findings

18:15 – Body weight and body composition changes

20:11 – Symptom improvement results

22:13 – Nutrient–thyroid marker relationships

23:23 – Interpreting hormone and antibody shifts

25:53 – Comparing results to the Abbott study

29:54 – Practical takeaways for listeners

33:06 – Recap, resources & wrap-up

From Flare to Flow: Lynn Rester on Staying Grounded While Healing Takes Time (Ep 064)19 Feb 202600:12:12
Episode 64: From Flare to Flow — Lynn on Staying Grounded While Healing Takes Time

Healing stories are often told after everything makes sense—but autoimmune life is usually lived in the middle of uncertainty.

In this episode, Mickey talks with AIP Certified Coach Lynn Rester about navigating an active flare while balancing work, health, and daily life. Lynn shares what it’s been like to move through recurring infections, deep fatigue, and disrupted sleep—and how she’s staying grounded while healing unfolds in real time.

This conversation offers reassurance for anyone who’s doing the work but still waiting for things to shift.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. What it’s like to navigate an autoimmune flare in real time
  2. How recurring infections can impact autoimmune health
  3. Why sleep and stress became Lynn’s main focus
  4. How to stay grounded when symptoms don’t resolve quickly
  5. Why healing often happens slowly and quietly

Resources:
  1. Healthy Eating and Life Plans: Lynn's Website
  2. Follow Lynn on Facebook and Instagram.
  3. AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Professional training and a worldwide directory to find AIP-trained support.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introducing real-time healing conversations

01:20 – Meet Lynn Rester

01:57 – Balance, fatigue, and recurring infections

03:20 – When healing doesn’t happen quickly

05:54 – Staying mentally grounded during a flare

07:25 – Lifestyle shifts supporting this season

09:15 – Advice for feeling stuck in the middle

10:17 – Reflections and takeaways

11:03 – Share your Flare to Flow story

11:29 – Where to connect with Lynn

AIP for IBD: The Gene Expression Study & Patient Experience Survey (Ep 063)16 Feb 202600:31:04
Episode 63: AIP for IBD — The Gene Expression Study & Patient Experience Survey

What happens inside the body when someone follows the Autoimmune Protocol—and how does AIP actually feel to people using it in real life?

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott reviews two important follow-up studies from the Scripps research team, led by Dr. Gauree Konijeti, that expand our understanding of AIP for inflammatory bowel disease beyond symptom improvement alone.

The first study examined gene expression changes in intestinal tissue after an AIP intervention in ulcerative colitis. The second explored real-world patient experiences using AIP for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis through a large survey. Together, these studies shed light on both the biological shifts and the lived experience of AIP for IBD.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why researchers examined gene expression changes after AIP
  2. What the RNA substudy revealed about immune and healing pathways
  3. Why these findings matter despite a small sample size
  4. How people with IBD experience AIP outside of clinical trials
  5. Common patterns in symptom improvement and medication use
  6. How personalization and reintroduction typically unfold in real life
  7. What these studies add to the growing AIP research landscape

Resources:

Scripps RNA Gene Expression Study (2019): An Integrative Clinical Pilot Study to Evaluate RNA Expression Changes in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Following the Autoimmune Protocol Diet

AIP IBD Patient Experience Survey (2021): Experience Using the Autoimmune Protocol Diet in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Patient Survey

AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable guides, meal plans, and beginner resources.

The New Autoimmune Protocol (Book) – Updated research, Core and Modified AIP guidance, and step-by-step meal plans (available for pre-order).

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction: looking beyond symptoms

02:23 – Overview of the RNA and patient experience studies

03:42 – RNA substudy participant profile

06:51 – The AIP intervention used in the RNA analysis

07:41 – Clinical outcomes observed in the RNA subgroup

10:32 – How RNA gene expression was analyzed

13:07 – Results: gene expression and immune pathways

16:47 – Introducing the IBD patient experience survey

20:21 – Survey results: symptom changes and medication use

24:00 – Survey results: food reintroductions

28:08 – Recap: what these studies add to AIP research

Meal Plan Makeover: Improving Energy and Satisfaction | Small Bite (Ep 062)12 Feb 202600:18:01
Episode 62: Meal Plan Makeover — Improving Energy and Satisfaction (Small Bite)

Many people start the Autoimmune Protocol with a clear understanding of the rules—what foods to include, what to avoid, and which phase they’re in. But knowing the rules and feeling well on AIP are not always the same thing.

In this Small Bite episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott introduces a new practical series called Meal Plan Makeover, where she walks through real-life AIP meal plans to explore what’s working, what might be getting in the way, and how small, strategic changes can dramatically improve energy, satisfaction, and sustainability.

Using a real (anonymized) three-day diet journal from a former client living with Hashimoto’s and rheumatoid arthritis, Mickey demonstrates how AIP can sometimes be applied too minimally—leading to under-eating, low energy, constant hunger, and meals that look “right” on paper but don’t feel supportive in the body.

This episode is not about perfection or criticism. It’s about learning how to apply AIP more strategically by focusing on protein balance, nutrient density, carbohydrates, flavor, and realistic capacity—so the protocol actually supports healing instead of creating new challenges.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why following the AIP rules isn’t always enough to feel your best
  2. How under-eating and low variety can sneak in during Elimination
  3. Why fatigue and constant hunger are common signs of undernourishment
  4. How to build more balanced breakfasts and snacks on AIP
  5. Why starchy vegetables are essential for energy and sleep
  6. How smoothies can work—and where they often fall short
  7. Simple ways to improve satiety without cooking more
  8. Why seafood and protein variety matter for autoimmune health
  9. How sauces and flavor boosters improve both enjoyment and nourishment
  10. Why calorie restriction can backfire during the Elimination phase
  11. Small, realistic changes that can make AIP feel easier and more sustainable

Resources:

AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, and beginner guides.

The New Autoimmune Protocol (Book) – Updated research, practical tools, and meal plans for Core and Modified AIP (available for pre-order).

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction: why AIP implementation matters

02:18 – Introducing the Meal Plan Makeover series

04:10 – Debbie’s background and context

05:36 – Reviewing the three-day meal plan

06:43 – Where strategy (not effort) is missing

07:04 – Smoothies: strengths and protein gaps

08:31 – A protein-forward breakfast that works

09:10 – Why snacks need balance

09:55 – The missing piece: starchy vegetables

11:12 – Bringing in more seafood

11:54 – Flavor matters: sauces and satisfaction

12:55 – Protein variety and fullness

13:21 – Calories, weight loss, and Elimination

14:59 – The big-picture meal plan takeaway

15:43 – Simple experiments to try this week

16:57 – Submitting your own meal plan & wrap-up

AIP For Hashimoto’s: The Pioneering Abbott Pilot Study & Case Reports (Ep 061)09 Feb 202600:34:33
Episode 61: AIP for Hashimoto’s — The Pioneering Abbott Pilot Study & Case Reports

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common autoimmune disease in the world—and yet many people continue to struggle with fatigue, brain fog, pain, and mood symptoms even when their thyroid labs look “normal.”

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott continues the AIP Medical Research Review series with a deep dive into the very first clinical study ever conducted on the Autoimmune Protocol for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This community-supported pilot study, led by Dr. Rob Abbott and published in 2019, examined whether a structured AIP diet and lifestyle intervention could improve quality of life, inflammation, and symptom burden in adults with Hashimoto’s who were already medically stable.

Mickey walks through the full story behind the study—from the chance meeting that sparked the research, to the grassroots crowdfunding effort that made it possible. She breaks down the study design, participant profile, intervention structure, clinical measures, and results, including detailed case reports that offer rare insight into individual experiences.

This episode highlights a critical and often overlooked reality in Hashimoto’s care: meaningful improvements in how people feel and function can occur even when thyroid hormones and antibodies remain largely unchanged.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. How the first AIP study for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis came to be
  2. Why Hashimoto’s patients often struggle despite “normal” thyroid labs
  3. Who participated in the Abbott pilot study and why that matters
  4. What the AIP intervention looked like in a clinical research setting
  5. How diet, nutrient density, and lifestyle practices were integrated
  6. Which clinical measures were used to assess symptoms, inflammation, and quality of life
  7. What the study revealed about fatigue, pain, mood, and daily functioning
  8. Why improvements occurred even though thyroid hormones stayed stable
  9. What happened with thyroid antibodies and systemic inflammation
  10. Why some participants required lower doses of thyroid medication
  11. What the individual case reports reveal beyond group averages
  12. Why this study remains a milestone for Hashimoto’s research today
  13. Practical takeaways for using AIP to support Hashimoto’s now

Resources:

Abbott Pilot Study (2019): Efficacy of the Autoimmune Protocol Diet as a Part of a Multidisciplinary Supported Lifestyle Intervention for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, and beginner guides.

AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Advanced training for practitioners and a worldwide directory to find AIP-trained support.

Pre-Order The New Autoimmune Protocol – Mickey's forthcoming complete guide to the updated Autoimmune Protocol, including both Core and Modified AIP.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – The meeting that sparked the Hashimoto’s study

02:51 – Overview of the Abbott AIP Hashimoto’s study

04:01 – Understanding Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and standard treatment

06:27 – Why study AIP for Hashimoto’s

08:37 – Study participant profile

10:09 – The AIP study intervention

13:17 – Clinical measures and assessments

16:20 – Results: quality of life improvements

18:02 – Results: inflammation (hs-CRP)

19:03 – Results: thyroid hormones and antibodies

21:09 – Results: thyroid medication use

22:36 – Adherence and safety

23:29 – Case reports and individual outcomes

26:02 – Why this study still matters

28:25 – Practical takeaways for listeners

32:16 – Recap, resources, and what’s coming next

Beyond the Recipe: Veggie-Packed Meatloaf Muffins with Ginny Mahar | Small Bite (Ep 060)05 Feb 202600:21:46
Episode 60: Beyond the Recipe — Veggie-Packed Meatloaf Muffins with Ginny Mahar (Small Bite)

If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen thinking, I know what I should eat, but I just don’t know what to make, this episode is for you.

In this Kitchen Confidence Small Bite episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott kicks off a new mini-series called Behind the Recipe—conversations that go beyond instructions to explore why certain recipes work so well for healing, how to adapt them, and what they teach us about cooking in a sustainable, real-life way.

Mickey is joined by Ginny Mahar, creator of Hypothyroid Chef and author of the newly released Thyroid30 Cookbook, to talk through one of those quietly powerful, repeat-worthy recipes: Veggie-Packed Meatloaf Muffins. Together, they discuss what makes this recipe so supportive for people navigating autoimmune and thyroid conditions—from batch cooking and freezing to substitutions, flavor boosters, and family-friendly design.

This episode is less about perfection and more about practicality: how to build meals that are nourishing, flexible, and realistic on both good days and hard ones.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why some recipes become long-term staples during healing
  2. What makes the Veggie-Packed Meatloaf Muffins so supportive for AIP and thyroid health
  3. How veggie-forward, protein-rich meals support energy and consistency
  4. Tips for batch cooking, freezing, and reheating with minimal stress
  5. Smart substitutions for meat, vegetables, and flavor boosters
  6. How to adapt AIP recipes for families and mixed dietary needs
  7. Why accessibility and simplicity matter when cooking with chronic illness
  8. How flavor, texture, and portioning impact real-life sustainability
  9. What inspired the Thyroid30 Cookbook and who it’s designed for

Resources:

Veggie-Packed Meatloaf Muffins Recipe – Full recipe from the Thyroid30 Cookbook

The Thyroid30 Cookbook by Ginny Mahar

Hypothyroid Chef Website

Ginny Mahar on Instagram

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why some recipes truly stick

01:18 – Introducing the Behind the Recipe mini-series

01:18 – Guest introduction: Ginny Mahar, Hypothyroid Chef

03:31 – Why this meatloaf muffin recipe works so well

04:04 – Visual description & real-life use

04:52 – Ingredients, binders, and flavor strategy

07:04 – Portioning, batch cooking, and meal pairing

09:05 – Freezing, storage, and reheating tips

10:57 – Substitutions and variations

15:14 – Serving ideas, sauces, and flavor upgrades

17:06 – Veggie-forward cooking and accessibility

19:28 – The Thyroid30 Cookbook overview

21:21 – Wrap-up and where to find the recipe

AIP for IBD: The Groundbreaking Scripps Pilot & Quality of Life Studies (Ep 059)02 Feb 202600:32:59
Episode 59: AIP for IBD — The Groundbreaking Scripps Pilot & Quality of Life Studies

For years, people living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis have asked whether diet can meaningfully impact inflammatory bowel disease. Until recently, there was very little clinical research to help answer that question.

In this episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott kicks off a new AIP Medical Research Review series by walking through the very first clinical studies ever conducted on the Autoimmune Protocol. These groundbreaking studies—led by gastroenterologist Dr. Gauree Konijeti and her team at Scripps—examined the effects of AIP in adults with longstanding, active inflammatory bowel disease.

This episode reviews two landmark papers: the 2017 Scripps pilot study on AIP for IBD and the 2019 follow-up study examining patient-reported quality of life. Mickey explains how the studies were designed, who participated, what the AIP intervention looked like in a clinical setting, and what the results actually showed—both in symptoms and in day-to-day functioning.

Along the way, this episode clarifies why these studies still matter nearly a decade later, how they helped shape today’s Core and Modified AIP approaches, and what they reveal about the role of diet and lifestyle in autoimmune care.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. How the first AIP research study began with a single ulcerative colitis patient
  2. Why Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis fall under the IBD umbrella
  3. Who participated in the Scripps pilot study and why the results were so striking
  4. What the AIP intervention looked like in a clinical research setting
  5. Which foods were eliminated and which nutrient-dense foods were emphasized
  6. How lifestyle support and coaching were integrated into the study
  7. What clinical remission meant in the context of these trials
  8. How AIP affected inflammatory markers and gut-specific biomarkers
  9. What the quality of life study revealed beyond symptom improvement
  10. Why these findings helped pave the way for Modified AIP
  11. Key safety considerations for people with IBD, including strictures
  12. Practical takeaways for applying AIP to IBD today

Resources:

Scripps Pilot Study (2017): Efficacy of the Autoimmune Protocol Diet for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Scripps Quality of Life Study (2019): An Autoimmune Protocol Diet Improves Patient-Reported Quality of Life in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable guides and beginner resources

AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Professional training and global support directory

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – The patient story that sparked AIP research

02:35 – Overview of the IBD and quality of life studies

03:46 – Understanding IBD and standard treatments

05:10 – Why study AIP for inflammatory bowel disease

06:13 – Study participant profile

08:19 – The AIP study intervention

11:41 – Clinical endpoints and biomarkers

13:58 – Results: clinical outcomes

17:19 – Medication changes during the study

19:05 – Safety considerations

20:54 – Quality of life study results

23:53 – Why these studies still matter

27:15 – Practical takeaways for listeners

31:03 – Recap and wrap-up

Kitchen Confidence: A Three-Meal Safety Net | Small Bite (Ep 058)29 Jan 202600:18:04
Episode 58: Kitchen Confidence — The AIP 3-Meal Safety Net (Small Bite)

When most people struggle with AIP, it’s not because they don’t care or don’t know what to eat. It’s because their food plan only works on “good” days—when energy is high, stress is low, and life is predictable.

In this Kitchen Confidence Small Bite episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey introduces a simple, flexible framework designed for real life: the AIP 3-Meal Safety Net. This approach helps you stay nourished through fluctuating energy, stress, flares, and changing capacity—across every phase of AIP.

Rather than focusing on recipes, perfection, or willpower, this episode reframes kitchen confidence as having reliable options that work on your worst days, not just your best ones. Mickey explains how planning for different capacity levels reduces decision fatigue, lowers stress, and makes consistency possible over time.

This episode breaks meals into three practical categories—low capacity, medium capacity, and higher or supported capacity—and offers concrete examples of what each looks like in real life. The goal is not cooking more, but building a system that supports you when cooking feels hard.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why most AIP plans break down on low-energy or high-stress days
  2. What “kitchen confidence” really means (and what it doesn’t)
  3. Why AIP needs to be built for real life—not ideal conditions
  4. How the AIP 3-Meal Safety Net supports fluctuating capacity
  5. What low-capacity meals look like when cooking feels impossible
  6. How to approach simple, repeatable meals on busy or tired days
  7. Why medium-capacity meals carry most people through the week
  8. How higher or supported cooking helps future you
  9. Why freezer meals and leftovers reduce stress and decision fatigue
  10. How to let go of guilt and build a sustainable AIP approach

Resources:

The New Autoimmune Protocol (Book) – Updated research, practical tools, recipes, and real-life strategies for sustainable AIP (available for pre-order).

AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Professional training and a worldwide directory to find AIP-trained support.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Kitchen confidence & building AIP for real life

02:17 – Why AIP plans fail on “bad” days

04:51 – Introducing the AIP 3-Meal Safety Net

05:42 – Type 1 meals: low-capacity, no-cook options

09:03 – Type 2 meals: medium capacity, light cooking

12:17 – Type 3 meals: higher or supported capacity

16:08 – Recap: building a flexible, sustainable system

17:20 – Book announcement & closing reflections

AIP Community Q1 Update: Events, Advocacy & Research (Ep 057)26 Jan 202600:35:51
Episode 57: AIP Community Update — Events, Advocacy & Research

Living with autoimmune disease is deeply personal—but the forces that shape diagnosis, care, and long-term outcomes extend far beyond any one individual. Research priorities, advocacy efforts, and community education all influence who gets seen, supported, and served within the autoimmune landscape.

In this first Quarterly Community Update episode of the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast, Mickey Trescott steps back to look at what’s happening across the broader autoimmune community right now. These quarterly episodes are designed to help listeners stay informed and oriented—without overwhelm, fear, or chasing headlines.

This episode introduces a new recurring structure focused on three areas that directly shape autoimmune care: advocacy, research, and community education. Mickey is joined by three regular contributors who bring both professional expertise and lived experience to these conversations.

First, Jamie-Nicole Martin, chronic illness advocate and founder of the AIP BIPOC Network, joins Mickey to discuss autoimmune awareness, systems-level advocacy, and community-based initiatives designed to improve equity, access, and representation in autoimmune care.

Next, Sybil Cooper, PhD, immunologist and AIP Certified Coach, breaks down recent research shaping the autoimmune landscape, including a major Mayo Clinic study on autoimmune disease prevalence and the significance of the 2025 Nobel Prize recognition of regulatory T cells (Tregs).

Finally, Jaime Hartman, National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach, host of the AIP Summit, and co-teacher of the AIP Certified Coach Program, shares updates from across the AIP community, including emerging education trends, Summit highlights, and professional training opportunities.

Together, these conversations highlight why systemic change matters, what the latest science is actually telling us, and how community-centered education continues to evolve to support people living with autoimmune disease.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why autoimmune care is shaped by advocacy, research, and education—not just individual choices
  2. How Jamie-Nicole Martin and the AIP BIPOC Network support both personal healing and systems-level change
  3. Upcoming advocacy events, including the ROCK Summit and ROCK Community Expo
  4. How monthly AIP BIPOC Roundtables create safer spaces for dialogue and collective insight
  5. Key findings from a large Mayo Clinic study explained by Sybil Cooper, PhD
  6. The difference between prevalence and incidence—and why that distinction matters
  7. Which autoimmune conditions are most common and how patterns differ by sex
  8. Why having multiple autoimmune diagnoses is more common than most people realize
  9. What the Nobel Prize recognition of regulatory T cells (Tregs) signals for the future of autoimmune research
  10. How Jaime Hartman sees AIP education expanding beyond food into lifestyle, hormones, athletics, and life-stage support
  11. How to access ongoing AIP education, community connection, and trained practitioner support

Resources:
  1. AIP BIPOC Network – Advocacy initiatives, community events, and monthly roundtables
  2. ROCK Wellness Weekend – ROCK Summit & ROCK Community Expo (Houston, TX)
  3. AIP BIPOC Network Donation Link - Help fund their programs for the autoimmune community
  4. Mayo Clinic Autoimmune Disease Prevalence Study
  5. Nobel Prize 2025 Press Release - Team discovering T-regulatory cells
  6. AIP Summit – Annual event, replays, and ongoing community access
  7. AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Professional training and global directory of AIP-trained support

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction to the Quarterly Community Update series

01:21 – Overview of advocacy, research, and community education

02:29 – Autoimmune awareness & advocacy with Jamie-Nicole Martin

04:41 – ROCK Summit & ROCK Community Expo

06:32 – AIP BIPOC Roundtables and global community support

08:45 – How to support advocacy work

11:15 – Research update with Sybil Cooper, PhD

15:48 – Most common autoimmune conditions and diagnostic patterns

17:45 – Sex differences and multiple autoimmune diagnoses

20:20 – Nobel Prize recognition of regulatory T cells (Tregs)

23:32 – AIP community updates with Jaime Hartman

24:31 – AIP Summit recap and emerging trends

26:35 – Lifestyle, hormones, and life-stage support in AIP

31:23 – AIP Certified Coach Program overview

35:13 – Wrap-up and closing reflections

Healing Isn’t Linear: A Personal Update and Big News (Ep 056)22 Jan 202600:48:38
Episode 56: Healing Isn’t Linear: A Personal Update and Big News

Healing with autoimmune disease is rarely a straight line. Even after long periods of stability, new symptoms, diagnoses, or life transitions can ask us to slow down, reassess, and adapt. In this deeply personal episode, Mickey shares an honest update on her health after more than a decade of relative stability—including a new autoimmune diagnosis she never expected.

This episode reflects on what it looks like to live well with autoimmune disease through different seasons of life. Mickey walks through how her health has evolved over the past year, what she’s learned about stress, hormones, and perimenopause, and how she’s adapting her wellness routine now—not from a place of perfection, but from lived experience.

In the second half of the episode, Mickey shares a long-held announcement: the official reveal of her new book, The New Autoimmune Protocol. She explains why she felt called to write it now, how AIP has evolved over the years, and what makes this resource different from anything she’s created before.

This episode is for anyone navigating change in their health, feeling blindsided after years of doing “everything right,” or wondering what sustainable healing really looks like over the long term.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  1. Why healing with autoimmune disease is rarely linear
  2. What led to Mickey’s recent health changes and new diagnosis
  3. How stress, workload, and hormonal shifts can influence autoimmune flares
  4. The connection between uveitis, psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis
  5. How Mickey approaches wellness and self-care in her current season of life
  6. What her personalized diet, movement, and supplement routine looks like now
  7. Why foundational habits matter more than wellness trends or “hacks”
  8. Why The New Autoimmune Protocol was written—and what makes it different
  9. How AIP has evolved into a more flexible, research-backed framework
  10. How to support the book through pre-orders and upcoming events

Resources:
  1. The New Autoimmune Protocol – Available for pre-order wherever books are sold
  2. Live Cover Reveal Event – January 31st at 11:00 AM PT on YouTube

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why healing isn’t linear & what this episode covers

02:28 – Mickey’s original autoimmune story and early AIP journey

08:38 – Building strength, stability, and resilience over time

10:53 – A reminder that ongoing support still matters

13:06 – A year of integration, reflection, and new ideas

15:53 – Book production, overexertion, and the first uveitis flare

20:50 – A second flare and the search for answers

24:13 – A new diagnosis and reframing the past

27:05 – Stress, hormones, perimenopause, and autoimmune disease

32:17 – Mickey’s current wellness routine

32:45 – How she eats now

36:32 – Medications and supplements

37:34 – Movement, strength training, and recovery

39:43 – A foundational approach to long-term health

42:09 – Introducing The New Autoimmune Protocol

46:15 – Live cover reveal event & giveaways

47:14 – Closing reflections and gratitude

Nutrient Density & Lifestyle Changes: Essential to All Phases of AIP | Deep Dive (Ep 055)19 Jan 202600:28:46
Episode 55: Nutrient Density & Lifestyle Changes – Essential to All Phases of AIP

When most people think about the Autoimmune Protocol, they focus on food elimination—but lasting healing requires much more than dietary change alone. In this episode, Mickey explains the two essential pillars that support every phase of AIP: nutrient density and lifestyle practices.

As part of the AIP Deep Dive series, this episode expands beyond the three formal phases of the Autoimmune Protocol to explore how deeply nourishing foods and supportive daily habits work together to promote repair, resilience, and long-term healing. Mickey breaks down what nutrient density really means, why deficiencies are common in autoimmune disease, and how strategic food choices help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.

This episode also explores the four lifestyle foundations that influence autoimmune health just as powerfully as food—sleep, stress management, movement, and connection—and how to apply them consistently in every phase of AIP without striving for perfection.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why AIP requires more than food elimination to support lasting healing
  2. What nutrient density really means and why it matters for autoimmune health
  3. Which nutrient-dense foods support repair in every phase of AIP
  4. Practical ways to include nutrient-dense foods without overcomplicating meals
  5. Why sleep is a foundational healing tool for immune regulation
  6. How stress affects inflammation and how to manage it sustainably
  7. How to approach movement safely with autoimmune disease
  8. Why connection and community are essential for long-term healing
  9. How to integrate food and lifestyle changes without burnout

Resources:
  1. AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, and beginner resources.
  2. AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Advanced training for licensed healthcare providers and a worldwide directory to find AIP-trained support.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Nutrient density & lifestyle as pillars of AIP

02:25 – What nutrient density actually means

05:07 – Nutrient-dense foods to include in all phases of AIP

08:29 – Practical ways to use nutrient-dense foods

12:48 – Lifestyle foundations that support healing

13:20 – Sleep and immune regulation

15:57 – Stress management and nervous system balance

18:50 – Movement and autoimmune recovery

22:39 – Connection and community support

25:09 – Integrating food and lifestyle changes

27:35 – Wrap-up & AIP Foundation Series

Reintroduction: Phase 3 of the Autoimmune Protocol | Deep Dive (Ep 054)15 Jan 202600:30:10
Episode 54: Reintroduction – Phase 3 of the Autoimmune Protocol

Reintroduction is often the most misunderstood—and most powerful—phase of the Autoimmune Protocol. While elimination helps calm inflammation, reintroductions are what allow you to build a personalized, sustainable way of eating that supports your long-term health. In this episode, Mickey explains why reintroduction is not optional, how it’s changed with recent AIP updates, and why staying in elimination too long can actually work against healing.

As part of the AIP Deep Dive series, this episode focuses on Phase 3 of the updated Autoimmune Protocol: the Reintroduction Phase. Mickey walks through how to know when you’re ready to begin, how to reintroduce foods safely, and how to interpret your body’s feedback so you can expand your diet with confidence.

This episode provides a clear, step-by-step framework for navigating reintroductions without fear or confusion—helping you move from a structured healing phase into a flexible, personalized approach to eating that works for your body and your life.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. What the AIP Reintroduction Phase is and why it matters
  2. Why elimination is never meant to be permanent
  3. How to know when you’re ready to begin reintroductions
  4. The updated, evidence-based food reintroduction procedure
  5. How to track and interpret immediate and delayed food reactions
  6. The Core AIP reintroduction stages and food order
  7. How Modified AIP reintroductions differ from Core AIP
  8. What “gray area foods” are and how to handle them
  9. How to build your personalized, long-term AIP template

Resources:
  1. AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, and beginner resources.
  2. AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Advanced training for licensed healthcare providers and a worldwide directory to find AIP-trained support.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why reintroductions are the most powerful phase of AIP

02:34 – What the Reintroduction Phase is—and why it matters

04:27 – When to begin reintroductions

08:34 – The updated food reintroduction procedure

13:18 – Core AIP reintroduction stages

16:46 – Modified AIP reintroduction stages

19:29 – Tracking and interpreting food reactions

22:21 – Navigating “gray area foods”

24:27 – Immediate vs. delayed food reactions

27:12 – Life after reintroductions & your personalized AIP template

29:36 – Wrap-up & AIP Foundation Series

Elimination, Core & Modified: Phase 2 of the Autoimmune Protocol | Deep Dive (Ep 053)12 Jan 202600:34:23
Episode 53: Elimination, Core & Modified – Phase 2 of the Autoimmune Protocol

For many people, the Elimination Phase is what comes to mind when they think about the Autoimmune Protocol—but it’s also the most misunderstood part. Conflicting food lists, outdated advice, and fear of restriction have left many people unsure how to approach elimination in a way that’s effective and sustainable. In this episode, Mickey clarifies what the Elimination Phase actually looks like today, following the 2024 update to the Autoimmune Protocol.

As part of the AIP Deep Dive series, this episode focuses on Phase 2 of the updated framework: the Elimination Phase. Mickey explains why elimination is meant to be temporary, how it fits into the larger AIP process, and how the introduction of Core AIP and Modified AIP makes the protocol more accessible without compromising its effectiveness.

This episode provides a clear, practical roadmap for navigating elimination with confidence—covering what to remove, what to include, how long to stay in this phase, and how to troubleshoot common challenges—so you can move forward without overwhelm or guesswork.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. What the AIP Elimination Phase is—and what it isn’t
  2. Why elimination is a temporary learning phase, not a lifelong diet
  3. How Core AIP and Modified AIP differ and why both exist
  4. Which foods are avoided on Core AIP
  5. Which foods are included on Modified AIP and why
  6. What foods to focus on adding for nutrient density and healing
  7. How long the Elimination Phase typically lasts
  8. How to troubleshoot fatigue, cravings, digestive changes, and overwhelm
  9. Practical meal planning and batch cooking strategies to make elimination easier

Resources:
  1. AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, and beginner resources.
  2. AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Advanced training for licensed healthcare providers and a worldwide directory to find AIP-trained support.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction to the Elimination Phase and AIP updates

02:38 – What the Elimination Phase is—and isn’t

04:18 – Core AIP vs. Modified AIP explained

06:20 – Foods to avoid on Core AIP

11:05 – Foods included on Modified AIP

15:29 – Foods to include on both Core and Modified AIP

20:17 – How long to stay in the Elimination Phase

23:32 – Troubleshooting symptoms during elimination

27:57 – Meal planning and batch cooking strategies

32:18 – Wrap-up & AIP Foundation Series

Transition: Phase 1 of the Autoimmune Protocol | Deep Dive (Ep 52)08 Jan 202600:28:35
Episode 52: Transition – Phase 1 of the Autoimmune Protocol

In the early days of the Autoimmune Protocol, there was no Transition Phase—you simply jumped straight into elimination. For many people, that approach was overwhelming and unsustainable. In this episode, Mickey explains why preparation, not willpower, is the biggest predictor of success with AIP.

As part of the AIP Deep Dive series, this episode focuses on Phase 1 of the updated Autoimmune Protocol: the Transition Phase. Mickey walks through why this phase was added, what’s changed in the updated framework, and how thoughtful preparation can reduce burnout, increase confidence, and make AIP work in real life.

This episode lays the groundwork for the Elimination Phase by helping you slow down, build supportive systems, and approach AIP as a sustainable learning process—not an all-or-nothing challenge.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why the original “jump straight into elimination” approach often led to burnout
  2. What the AIP Transition Phase is and why it’s now considered essential
  3. How preparation—not discipline—determines long-term success
  4. The five steps of the AIP Transition Phase
  5. How to track baseline symptoms and why it matters
  6. How to create a personal health vision that supports motivation
  7. What a confidence assessment is and how it helps you plan realistically
  8. How to choose the right start date for elimination
  9. Common Transition Phase pitfalls and how to avoid them

Resources:
  1. AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, and beginner resources.
  2. AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Advanced training for licensed healthcare providers and a worldwide directory to find AIP-trained support.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why the Transition Phase was created

02:33 – The Transition Phase explained in five steps

04:14 – Step 1: Track your baseline symptoms

07:47 – Step 2: Create your personal health vision

10:09 – Step 3: Perform a confidence assessment

14:58 – Step 4: Choose your start date

18:32 – Step 5: Take action on preparation tasks

24:04 – Common Transition Phase pitfalls

26:42 – Wrap-up & AIP Foundation Series

The Autoimmune Protocol in 2026 | Deep Dive (Ep 051)05 Jan 202600:31:33
Episode 51: The Autoimmune Protocol in 2026

There’s a lot of confusion about the Autoimmune Protocol—what it is, what it isn’t, and whether it actually works. In this episode, Mickey cuts through the noise to share the real story behind AIP and how it’s evolved in 2026.

As someone who’s been part of the AIP movement since the very beginning, Mickey explains how AIP grew from a grassroots experiment into a research-backed framework used worldwide to support people living with autoimmune disease. She also breaks down the major 2024 update to AIP, including the introduction of Core AIP and Modified AIP, and how to decide which approach is right for you.

This episode kicks off the AIP Deep Dive series and lays the foundation for using AIP as a temporary, educational process—not a lifelong restrictive diet.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  1. What the Autoimmune Protocol really is (and what it’s not)
  2. How AIP evolved from patient experimentation to published research
  3. The three phases of AIP: Transition, Elimination, and Reintroduction
  4. The difference between Core AIP and Modified AIP
  5. How AIP supports gut health, immune regulation, and inflammation
  6. What the science says about AIP and autoimmune disease
  7. Common myths and misconceptions about AIP
  8. How to know if AIP is the right tool for you

Resources:

AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, and reintroduction guides.

AIP Certified Coach Program – Advanced training for licensed healthcare providers who want to use AIP safely and effectively in clinical practice, or find a coach in the worldwide directory.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction: Why AIP is misunderstood

02:45 – Autoimmune disease overview & Mickey’s story

05:06 – The origins of the Autoimmune Protocol

07:06 – What AIP is and how it works

08:01 – Phase 1: The Transition Phase

10:32 – Phase 2: Elimination (Core AIP vs. Modified AIP)

16:45 – Phase 3: Reintroduction

19:49 – How AIP supports gut health, immunity, and inflammation

22:29 – Recovery stories & medical research

25:10 – The 2024 update: Core vs. Modified AIP

27:32 – Myths and controversies about AIP

29:51 – Is AIP right for you?

30:15 – Wrap-up & what’s coming next

The State of AIP in 2026: Launching The Autoimmune Wellness Podcast! (Ep 050)01 Jan 202600:21:46
Episode 50: The State of AIP in 2026 & Relaunching the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast

After a pause, the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast is back—and this episode marks the beginning of a new chapter. In Episode 50, Mickey officially relaunches the podcast and shares a clear, compassionate update on the current state of the Autoimmune Protocol as we head into 2026.

Mickey reflects on how AIP has evolved from a grassroots, patient-led experiment into a mature, research-informed framework used by patients and practitioners around the world. She also explains why this moment matters, what’s changed in recent years, and how the podcast will support the autoimmune community moving forward.

This episode sets the stage for the AIP Deep Dive series and offers grounding, context, and direction for anyone navigating autoimmune disease—whether you’re brand new to AIP or have been part of this community for years.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
  1. Why the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast is being relaunched now
  2. How AIP has entered a new “maturity” stage
  3. What’s changed in the AIP landscape since 2022
  4. Why Modified AIP has been a game-changer for sustainability and access
  5. The current state of AIP research and what’s coming next
  6. How the AIP Certified Coach community has grown globally
  7. What the AIP community looks like today
  8. What to expect from upcoming podcast episodes and series

Resources:
  1. AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with over 60 pages of resources, food lists, and beginner guides.
  2. AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Learn more about becoming certified or find an AIP-trained provider.

Subscribe to the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast to stay up to date with the AIP Deep Dive series, research-focused episodes, and community conversations.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Welcome back & podcast relaunch

01:48 – About Mickey & the Autoimmune Wellness Podcast

04:37 – The State of AIP in 2026

05:30 – AIP enters its “maturity” stage

08:48 – Why Modified AIP has been a game-changer

10:23 – Research momentum and what’s ahead

11:21 – Growth of the AIP Certified Coach community

12:41 – The AIP community today

13:54 – What’s coming on the podcast

14:13 – January: AIP Deep Dive Month

15:59 – Personal health update preview

17:02 – February: Science Month

17:56 – Introducing “Small Bites”

18:48 – Looking ahead: mixed formats & community input

20:09 – AIP Foundation Series & wrap-up

AIP Research Update: A Hashimoto’s AIP Study from Poland19 Oct 202400:32:18

Good news! The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), an elimination and reintroduction protocol aimed at helping those with autoimmune disease identify food sensitivities and increase nutrient-density, continues to be the focus of medical research investigating its efficacy for specific autoimmune conditions. While AIP has been widely used in the autoimmune community since 2011 (see the

History of the AIP Movement), medical research into its efficacy began around 2015, with results of the first pilot study published in 2017. Since then, studies have been conducted using AIP as an intervention for inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis), Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, and psoriasis. If you’d like to learn more about previous studies, including what interventions were used and the results, check out the AIP Medical Research Review.

Today I’ll be highlighting the newest AIP medical study, Effects of Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet on changes in thyroid parameters in Hashimoto’s disease by a research team from Poland, Paulina Ihnatowicz, Jerzy Gębski, and Małgorzata Ewa Drywień [1]. This is the second study that has been conducted so far using AIP as an intervention to manage Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and certainly adds to our knowledge base of how to use the protocol for managing it [2]. Hashimoto’s is not only the most common autoimmune disease, but conventional treatment is rarely successful as many patients find that they continue to have symptoms even though their hormone levels have been “treated to target” [3].


Intervention details

For this study, 28 patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis were enrolled, with 20 of them completing the study. The average age was 35, with patients between 23-55 years old. Patients underwent initial testing, surveys, and dietary analysis, and then were prescribed individualized, 12-week dietary plans compliant with Core AIP Elimination. It should be noted that in contrast to prior studies using AIP, there was no use of a transition phase–participants made immediate transitions to the elimination diet [2].


In terms of testing completed at baseline and completion of the study, patients had their height and weight measured in a clinic, had lab draws for thyroid hormones (TSH, total and free hormones) and thyroid antibodies, an ultrasound of the thyroid, and they also completed surveys to capture symptom burden. Prior dietary intake was captured using a survey for analysis and comparison of prescribed AIP meal plans.


After initial testing, each participant was prescribed an individualized, 12-week Core AIP meal plan based on their anthropometrics (height and weight). They were instructed to continue all prescribed medications and supplements as before, and no adjustments were made to doses. Support was offered via monthly group coaching calls.


Results

Energy and macronutrient intake


A comparison of prior diet and prescribed AIP diet showed that energy intake (calories) was roughly the same before and after the study (2,067 to 1,997 calories). In terms of macronutrient intake, protein increased from 16.77% to 24.9% of total calories, which is an increase of roughly 85 to 125 grams per day (based on a 2,000 calorie intake). The increase in protein came primarily from decreased fat intake.


Micronutrient intake


Analysis of nutrient intake via prescribed AIP diet showed there was a broad increase in nutrient density during the intervention. Specific nutrient intake increases included Beta-carotene (550%), fiber (162%), folates (198%), long-chain fatty acids (262%), potassium (196%), vitamin A (341%), vitamin C (886%), with other nutrients like B vitamins, iron, zinc, and magnesium with considerable increases. The authors noted that analysis of some nutrients was complicated by supplementation, specifically magnesium, vitamin C, and potassium.


Biochemical thyroid changes


Blood test analysis showed Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) significantly decreased from a mean of 3.72 to 2.69. Free T3 and T4 significantly decreased, although both stayed within reference ranges (3.31 to 2.88; 1.36 to 1.20). Mean anti-TPO antibodies increased (210 to 293) and anti-Tg decreased (317 to 300), although these results did not meet statistical significance.


Physical thyroid changes


A comparison of thyroid ultrasounds before and after intervention showed the right lobe volume decreased by 5% and the left lobe volume decreased by 6%.


Weight and body composition changes


Anthropometric measurements taken before and after intervention showed that mean weight decreased from 69 kg to 65.5 kg (152 lbs to 144 lbs). Mean body fat percentage decreased from 33% to 29.5%, indicating that twice as much weight was lost from fat than muscle.


Symptom burden


Analysis of questionnaires showed a broad improvement of symptoms commonly reported by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis patients. The largest decreases were seen in the following areas:



  1. Digestive function

  2. Constipation – 36% to 11% (25% difference)


  3. Gas – 61% to 21% (35% difference)


  4. Flatulence – 61% to 29% (32% difference)


  5. Diarrhea – 29% to 7% (22% difference)


  6. Abdominal pain – 29% to 14% (15% difference)



  7. Energy

  8. Tiredness – 82% to 29% (53% difference)


  9. Drowsiness – 64% to 21% (43% difference)


  10. Fatigue – 50% to 11% (39% difference)



  11. Mental

  12. Impaired concentration – 71% to 18% (53% difference)


  13. Headaches – 39% to 11% (28% difference)


  14. Depression – 29% to 4% (25% difference)



  15. Pain

  16. Muscle cramps
Core & Modified AIP: An Updated AIP Resource Library!11 Apr 202400:14:43

In January, a new option for the elimination phase of the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) was announced:

Modified AIP Elimination. If you are looking for the exact details of which foods are included and avoided in both Core and Modified AIP, don’t miss What is AIP: The Definitive Guide which has been completely updated.


A quick summary of the reasons why Modified AIP was added as an elimination option:



  • Many patients in the AIP medical studies saw results before reaching a full elimination


  • AIP Certified Coaches reported seeing good results without a full elimination using a modified protocol in their practices


  • Recent elimination diet research indicates that stricter does not always produce better results


  • Increasing accessibility, affordability, and sustainability can widen the reach and application of AIP


If you’d like to read more about why AIP was updated, the research process behind making the update, be sure to read Announcing Modified AIP: A 2024 Update to the Autoimmune Protocol.


Introducing: An updated Autoimmune Wellness Resource Library

The founding mission here at Autoimmune Wellness has been to provide free resources for anyone who wants to embark on AIP. Since 2012, we’ve been delivering a resource library with food lists, meal plans, and other materials as a part of our AIP Quick Start Guide email series. Since inception, over 200,000 of you have downloaded these materials!


With the 2024 update to the Autoimmune Protocol, it was a prime opportunity to take a look at this resource library and give it a comprehensive update. Not only have all of the prior resources been edited and redesigned, but new materials have been added for the new Modified AIP elimination (including dedicated food lists, a meal plan, and reintroduction materials).


Here is a list of what is included in the updated Autoimmune Wellness Resource Library:



  • AIP Quick-Start Guide


  • Core AIP Foods to Include


  • Core AIP Foods to Avoid


  • Modified AIP Foods to Include (NEW!)


  • Modified AIP Foods to Avoid (NEW!)


  • Core AIP Meal Plan & Shopping List


  • Modified AIP Meal Plan & Shopping List (NEW!)


  • AIP Reintroduction Guide


  • Core AIP Reintroduction Stages


  • Modified AIP Reintroduction Stages (NEW!)


  • Food Reaction Checklist


  • AIP Medical Research Review (NEW!)


All of these materials are presented as beautifully-designed .pdf files that you can read on your computer, e-reader, or other digital device. They can also be printed at home.


How can you download these materials?

1. If you are a subscriber to the Autoimmune Wellness newsletter, you should have an email in your inbox with download links to each resource in the library.


2. If you are not yet a subscriber, you can sign up here and receive the AIP Quick Start email series, in which you will be sent the resources in a series of emails over the course of 6 days.


3. If you only want specific resources, you can sign up to receive them individually by opting in using the following links:




Are you a practitioner that uses AIP in your practice and would like an extended library of AIP resources to use with your patients or clients? Be sure to consider taking the AIP Certified Coach Practitioner Training Program, where you can learn best practices for implementing and personalizing AIP for the population you serve. Graduates are granted a license to use a collection of 50+ handouts directly with their clients, including assessments, journals, troubleshooting materials, and more.



If you’d like to hear me talk through these materials, listen to the podcast below:




Thank you for being a member of the Autoimmune Wellness community, and I sincerely hope these resources help you, your friends, or your loved ones embark on AIP easily and successfully!


The post Core & Modified AIP: An Updated AIP Resource Library! appeared first on Autoimmune Wellness.

Announcing Modified AIP: A 2024 Update to the Autoimmune Protocol01 Jan 202400:20:07

Since inception in 2011, the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) has not undergone any major updates or changes and has existed as originally conceived by experts and used by the autoimmune community.

Today, that is changing with the announcement of a new option: Modified AIP Elimination. This post serves to provide the rationale behind this change as well as provide links for learning more about the new protocol.


Reasons to update AIP

First, let’s discuss some AIP history and what led to these changes. Originally, Sarah Ballantyne, PhD. wrote extensively about and refined the protocol on her blog and in her books, which formed the foundations of the AIP protocol and movement. These foundations led to collaboration between leaders in the AIP community in the creation of the AIP Certified Coach Practitioner Training, serving to educate healthcare providers in best practices for using AIP with their clients and patients.


Additionally, Sarah’s research and writing sparked interest from the medical community to formally study the efficacy of AIP for various autoimmune conditions, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis. While medical research into the efficacy of AIP is still in its infancy, early results have shown promise at helping those with autoimmune disease achieve a higher quality of life, less symptom burden, and need less medication (you can read a review of all the results here).


Now that there is an emerging body of research into the efficacy of AIP, as well as a large group of practitioners with many collective years of expertise in AIP implementation and customization, it is time for analysis to see what is working and what could be made better for the next wave of individuals looking to embark on the protocol. Here are the major reasons why the Autoimmune Protocol is being updated now:


#1 Many patients in the AIP medical studies saw results before reaching a full elimination

In each of the AIP medical studies, a 6-week, gradual transition was used to ease patients into the elimination phase, which was then maintained for 4 more weeks. In the AIP IBD Study, 73% of patients achieved clinical remission at week 5, which was 1 week before the full elimination was complete. In this study, all of these patients then maintained clinical remission throughout the duration of the study and no additional patients reached clinical remission after this point. What this tells us is that it is likely the earliest eliminations, specifically, that were most responsible for the favorable results and that the full elimination phase may not have been necessary for all of them.


#2 AIP Certified Coaches are reporting good results without a full elimination

The Autoimmune Protocol has now been in widespread use in the practitioner community for many years through AIP Certified Coach. Nearly 1,000 healthcare providers from all types of backgrounds and specialties have been trained and certified to implement AIP in their work. In surveying the graduate community, AIP Certified Coaches have told us that they often find the original protocol is more restrictive than necessary and they are often modifying the list of eliminations to suit their clients’ and patients’ needs. They also report that they continue to see good results using a modified or less restricted elimination protocol.


#3 Other elimination diet research indicates that stricter is not always better

When AIP was conceived there was very little research into the efficacy of elimination diets to help manage autoimmune disease, especially conducted directly with humans. In the last decade, this has changed and many studies have been published using different elimination protocols for specific autoimmune conditions, especially gluten-free and dairy-free diets. The promising results from studies using fewer eliminations shows that for some patients and conditions, progress can be made with a simpler approach.


#4 Increasing accessibility, affordability, and sustainability can widen the reach of AIP

Food access and budget have always been major barriers to individuals implementing the Autoimmune Protocol, both on their own or in working with a coach. Some patients are simply not able to source or afford the ingredients needed to implement a full elimination, and others don’t have the time to prepare the entirety of their meals from scratch. In this case, we’ve long recommended modifying the protocol to accommodate those facing these barriers, but providing an official version of the protocol that is more budget-friendly and accessible will allow even more people to find healing through AIP.


The process of updating AIP

Updating AIP in 2024 has come out of consultation with many key players in the AIP community over the course of a few months. We interviewed researchers who performed the AIP medical studies and research in other similar areas, as well as experts and writers in the area of autoimmune health. We also surveyed and interviewed key members of the AIP Certified Coach community who predominantly work with autoimmune patients or clients. Lastly, we considered recent scientific evidence for elimination diets, food allergies/sensitivities, and reintroduction protocols in the new approach.


What we learned from this exploration was two-fold: first, that the original protocol still had high value and efficacy in both research and practice. And second, that many researchers and AIP Certified Coaches were confident that some patients would be best served by a less-restrictive option. This led to the creation of two separate options for the elimination phase which are detailed below.


Introducing: Core AIP and Modified AIP

Going forward, there are now two versions of the Elimination Phase, to be known as AIP Core Elimination and AIP Modified Elimination.


The original protocol, as used in the AIP medical studies and original AIP literature is not changing and will now be known as AIP Core Elimination. The intention is to preserve the original protocol for research comparison and to use with patients or clients who either need a stricter approach or can implement it easily (due to support, finances, or time).


The new protocol, a less-strict and more accessible version will be known as AIP Modified Elimination. This new protocol incorporates what we’ve learned about foods that are well-tolerated in the autoimmune community, and is simplified for ease of implementation, budget, and accessibility.


You can read more about which foods are included and avoided in both Core AIP and Modified AIP Elimination protocols at the updated Definitive Guide to AIP.


Which protocol to start with?

This then leads to the question of which protocol a person should choose when they embark on the Autoimmune Protocol. That depends!


The goal of AIP has always been to discover the least-restrictive dietary approach that produces the best health for each person. With this in mind, Modified AIP is an ideal starting point for most people as it is more affordable, accessible, takes less time to implement, and still removes the most potentially-problematic foods. Ideally, modified AIP produces the desired result and then a person can move on to the reintroduction phase, sparing them a drawn-out elimination and reintroduction process.


There are a few reasons why a person would choose Core AIP to begin with. They may have a condition, like IBD, where research indicates that the elimination phase has a good chance of producing results quickly. Or they may have another condition that is potentially serious and are highly motivated to transition and implement to find relief. Lastly, they may not experience some of the barriers that make Core AIP difficult to implement – like a lack of cooking skill, financial flexibility, or support at home.


If you are looking for resources to start Core or Modified AIP, click here or on the image below to get our AIP Quicklstart Guide sent to your inbox, including food lists, meal plans, and more!



FAQ:

Is anything changing about the original AIP protocol?


No, the original protocol is now simply known as “Core AIP” for differentiation. All of the foods eliminated, included, timeline, and reintroduction procedure remain the same. See the updated

AIP in 2023: An Announcement & an Invitation!01 Jan 202300:09:50

Hi Everyone! 

Mickey here… I hope this post finds you enjoying a peaceful and healthy New Year holiday! I wanted to take a moment to give you a heads up about an event coming up that is relevant to the AIP community as well as make an announcement about AIP Certified Coach.

First… The 2023 AIP Summit is scheduled for January 9-15! 

If you are looking to learn more about healing with the Autoimmune Protocol, directly from AIP Certified Coaches, the AIP Summit is for you! 

Each day starts at 10AM EST with a live welcome and then attendees can watch the day’s prepared presentations in any order and at whatever time works in their schedule for the following 24 hours. Each of the presentations features at least one AIP Certified Coach and the topic aligns with that coach’s expertise. 

So what types of presentations will you find at the AIP Summit? There are cooking demonstrations, deep dives into science or specific conditions, discussions about the impact of lifestyle factors, best practices for integrating AIP into life in the real world, and more. Additionally, attendees can submit questions after watching the presentations to be answered live during a Q&A panel the following day.

Since 2020, the AIP Summit has served over 15,000 people looking to learn more about AIP. Whether you are new to the protocol, or a seasoned traveler on the autoimmune journey, you are sure to learn some tips to help support your best health, straight from the experts! 

>> Sign up here to attend the AIP Summit! 

Second… a big announcement regarding AIP Certified Coach! 

I am honored to announce that Jaime Hartman, FNTP will be taking over as co-teacher and collaborator for AIP Certified Coach, the practitioner training program we founded in 2017 to help all types of healthcare providers integrate AIP into the work they do. 

This partnership should come as no surprise, since Jaime has been a pillar of the AIP community since the very beginning, was a part of the first cohort of AIP Certified Coach, and brings her rich clinical experience and educational background to the program. 

Together, Jaime and I are engaged in a ground-up remodel of the AIP Certified Coach, to be launched in time for the usual Spring enrollment in 2023. While the Autoimmune Protocol itself has not changed meaningfully since the program was created, we are re-writing and delivering all lectures to incorporate new information (like medical study results!) and additional perspectives we’ve gained. 

If you are a healthcare practitioner of any kind (we train health coaches, nutritional therapists, nutritionists, dietitians, physical therapists, fitness professionals, bodyworkers, nurses, physician’s assistants, medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, and more!), we would love to have you join us in the 2023 class, enrolling February 15 for a March 6 start date. 

>> Sign up to be notified of the details and enrollment opening for AIP Certified Coach here! 

In health, 

Mickey

The post AIP in 2023: An Announcement & an Invitation! appeared first on Autoimmune Wellness.

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