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Herbal Compress Balls

GAPS

Gut and Psychology/Physiology Syndrome (GAPS)

GAPS stands for Gut and Psychology/Physiology Syndrome, defined by Dr Natasha Campbell-McBride, MD, MMedSci (neurology), MMedSci (human nutrition) in 2004 after working with hundreds of children and adults with neurological and psychiatric conditions, such as autistic spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD/ADD), schizophrenia, dyslexia, dyspraxia, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, bi-polar disorder and other neuro-psychological and psychiatric problems.

Since then GAPS protocol has been updated to cover all the conditions where dysfunctional digestive health results in psychological and physiological conditions. These conditions include:

  • learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyspraxia

  • mental disorders such as autism, epilepsy, depression, addictions, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders

  • mental symptoms with no associated diagnostic labels such as mood alterations, memory and cognitive problems, behavioural and social problems

  • involuntary movements, tics and fits etc

  • autoimmune disorders such as coeliac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, lupus, Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, osteoarthritis etc.

  • allergies, intolerances and atopic conditions: asthma, eczema, rhinitis

  • endocrine disorders and adrenal problems

  • gynaecological and menstrual disorders

Key principles of the GAPS Diet include:

  1. Elimination of Processed Foods: The GAPS diet excludes refined sugars, grains, processed foods, and other food additives, all of which can aggravate gut inflammation and dysbiosis (microbial imbalance).

  2. High-Fat, Low-Carb: It emphasizes the consumption of healthy fats, such as those from bone broth, coconut oil, and grass-fed animal fats, which provide the body with energy and support the gut lining’s repair.

  3. Fermented Foods: Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and homemade yogurt are integral to the GAPS diet because they are rich in benecial probiotics that help restore gut flora and promote digestive health.

  4. Bone Broth: Rich in collagen and amino acids, bone broth is the cornerstone of the GAPS diet. It helps heal the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and supports the immune system.

  5. Gradual Reintroduction of Foods: The diet allows for the gradual reintroduction of a variety of foods, such as vegetables, fruits, meats, and certain grains, after the initial healing stages are complete.

GAPS protocol treats the digestive disorder first and foremost by changing the patients diet and lifestyle, addresses the nutritional deficiencies with supplements and than initiates detoxification in order to enable the patient to receive most of his/her nutrients from food.

Implementing the GAPS program requires a strong commitment and dedication. This program is not for people who cannot make the commitment. It is not a quick fix program and may take between one to three years for full recovery. However this sacrifice is not too much to pay for lifetime of good health.

Nijen is highly experienced in coaching her clients through the GAPS protocol and is looking to start giving workshops in Edinburgh in the near future.

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