GAPS? What is that?

I have decided to spend the next few weeks healing and sealing my gut.  GAPS stands for Gut and Psychology Syndrome.  I am going to be following the GAPS Intro "diet" which focuses on rest and healing for the gut lining and a slow introduction of fermented foods to help fill my gut with lots of good bacteria.  By removing foods that harm my gut flora, I can allow it to heal.

Why have I chosen to do this?  I don't really think that I have troubles digesting certain foods and by doing an elimination diet and adding things back in, I will find out!  But, I do find that I get colds a lot.  I get sinus infections WAY too often.  I really feel like my immune system could be stronger.  That is my goal - to boost my immune system!  Some other disorders and symptoms that have been related to the gut (and totally helped by GAPS) include: depression, ADHD, autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, bed wetting, type 1 diabetes, picky eaters, chronic ear infections, chronic bladder infections, asthma, colic, and eczema.  I also feel like I have too much sugar in my diet.  I desperately need a break from that.

So, what is on tap for me?  I started the Intro diet today.  I made a huge pot of soup filled with homemade broth, veggies, and chicken.  I get to eat this all day long.  As much as I want of it, too.  :)  After a day or two of this, I get to start adding foods back in.  I am pretty confident that I will be able to move through the stages quickly, as I don't think I have any food intolerances.  From all of my reading, when the bad bacteria and yeasts start to die (they aren't getting fed) I will start to feel kinda crappy as they are releasing their toxins.  Sounds gross and not too fun, but it is very short lived since the good bacteria will be taking over.

If you are interested in learning more about GAPS, I recommend getting the book by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride MD.  You could also do a google search for GAPS intro and you will find MORE than you care to read.  :)