Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the GAPS diet originate?

The GAPS diet is based on the Special Carbohydrate Diet (SCD). This diet was created by Sidney Valentine Haas, a renowned American paediatrician in the early 20th century. He developed the diet to treat coeliac disease after observing his patients' digestive conditions worsened following the ingestion of complex carbohydrates and starches. Years later, a woman named Elaine Gottschall brought her daughter to Hass’s practice; she had ulcerative colitis and neurological issues, and the girl recovered within two years of following the diet. The SCD has since been researched and recognised not only for its benefits in treating digestive disorders but also for neurological problems, including learning disabilities and autism. Dr Natasha Campbell used the SCD in treating her own son, who had autism, and has since adapted the diet to form GAPS to address a broader range of diseases.

How does the GAPS diet differ from other nutritional advice?

Although other nutritional practitioners recognise the existence of gut dysfunction in chronic illness, they do not necessarily believe it originates there. Gut issues are typically treated separately from other physiological and/or neurological problems. Their dietary recommendations focus on general health improvements rather than addressing the source, leading to the inclusion of various foods for their antioxidant properties and other benefits; however, these foods can be difficult to digest. The GAPS protocol is designed with the understanding that overall health is dependent on the proper functioning of the immune and digestive systems. Micronutrient deficiencies represent a major consequence of impaired intestinal health and subsequent disease. And for this reason, easy-to-digest, nutrient-dense produce is encouraged over food variety and what is conventionally regarded as healthy.

How long do I need to follow the GAPS diet?

The healing period is highly variable and depends on the severity of immune dysfunction. Neuropsychological disorders are more complex than physiological diseases, as they typically involve regeneration of the myelin sheath (nerve insulator). The nervous system is the slowest-healing organ in the body and can take a long time to establish new connections. Most GAPS disorders in adults require a commitment of two to three years to the new lifestyle changes, while other cases may need additional time. The good news is that we do not have to wait for complete healing to experience improvements in our health.

Can I just follow the GAPS diet from the book?

Of course. This is how I began. I had consulted with a GAPS nutritional therapist whose advice diverged from the protocol, leading me to experiment through my own trial and error. However, after comparing my experience with the testimonials of other GAPS dieters and adopting elements of the PKD (paleo-ketogenic diet), I now believe that the six stages of the GAPS introduction phase can be simplified. While still adhering to the GAPS premise, these modifications merely omit certain foods for longer periods, thus reducing the risk of prolonged symptoms and exacerbation of conditions.

Will I have to stay on the GAPS diet for life?

You will never be able to eat a ‘normal’ diet, which means a typical Westernised diet rich in hyper-processed foods, baked goods, confectionery, and sugary drinks. These foods contributed to the disease process and will continue to harm the body and impair immune function if consumed again. The inclusion of some whole foods, such as grains, is possible once more but will likely be limited to fermented varieties. The core diet staples will remain the same, but the quantities needed can be greatly reduced depending on the extent of healing.