Using AIP as a therapeutic tool to help calm inflammation in autoimmune disease
- Claire
- Sep 17, 2025
- 3 min read
Autoimmune disease (AID), including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease, occur when the immune system loses its usual tolerance and begins to misidentify the body’s own tissues as threats. This breakdown of immune tolerance drives persistent inflammation, which underlies many common symptoms, such as fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and digestive issues. Over time, this can also lead to tissue damage
There are over 100 recognised autoimmune diseases, and women are disproportionately affected. One reason may be that women typically have higher numbers of T-lymphocytes – immune cells that help the body detect and respond to threats – which may contribute to increased susceptibility.
Research and clinical experience suggest that the development of autoimmunity involves three main factors:
Genetic predisposition
Environmental triggers
Immune dysregulation
Nutrition and lifestyle strategies can play a valuable role in calming an overactive immune response by supporting the gut barrier, balancing the microbiome, and regulating both innate and adaptive immunity. At the same time, immune dysregulation can change nutrient absorption, appetite, and metabolic needs, so optimising diet becomes even more important.
What is AIP and how can it help calm autoimmune disease?
The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) is a dietary and lifestyle approach designed to lower inflammation and support immune balance. It has been shown to improve quality of life and reduce symptoms in some individuals with autoimmune disease.
AIP is more than just a food plan – it is a comprehensive framework that includes nutrition, stress management, restorative sleep, gentle movement, and social connection.
The protocol consists of two main phases:
Elimination phase – removing foods most likely to trigger immune activation.
Reintroduction phase – systematically reintroducing foods to identify individual sensitivities.
Core AIP and Modified AIP?
Originally, there was only one version of the protocol, now known as Core AIP. This version involves a strict elimination phase and can provide a powerful immune reset and a clear baseline for identifying symptom-triggering foods. However, it can feel restrictive and may be challenging to maintain in the long term.
A more flexible version, Modified AIP, has been developed to help individuals follow AIP principles while accommodating their lifestyle, activity level, cultural or religious requirements, and digestive tolerances. While this option may take longer to achieve a “reset,” it is often easier to sustain and less stressful for those who prefer gradual change.
Both versions emphasise nutrient-dense, whole foods and involve elimination, reintroduction, and maintenance phases. The maintenance phase is highly personalised and reflects your unique tolerances and health goals.
> Practical Tips for Using AIP
Choose the right version: Decide whether Core or Modified AIP is realistic for your current life stage, stress levels, and support system.
Focus on nutrient density: Build meals around colourful vegetables, quality protein, and healthy fats to optimise immune balance and reduce inflammation.
Address lifestyle pillars: Sleep, stress management, movement, and social connection are all crucial to success.
Follow reintroductions carefully: Reintroduce foods one at a time, observing symptoms, ideally with professional guidance.
Think long term: The goal is sustainable symptom improvement, not perfection or extreme restriction.
How We Can Help at The Autoimmune Clinic
Both Muriel Wallace-Scott (Clinic Director) and Claire Maiwald (Nutritional Therapist and Thyroid Health Expert) are trained AIP practitioners and have extensive experience guiding clients through both Core and Modified AIP protocols.
We help you personalise the approach to your health, lifestyle, and goals – whether you are just starting your autoimmune journey or seeking more advanced support.
If you are considering the AIP diet, we recommend a guided approach to ensure nutrient sufficiency, reduce overwhelm, and maximise success.
