When we think about what to eat for endurance activities, like trekking, 'carbs' often spring to mind... This has been the mantra ever since I can remember: eat something beige and stodgy and take advantage of that 'slow release' energy. That's great (and convenient!)...
The Ankylosing Spondylitis Diet
Latest Articles
Salicylates: Why a Sensitivity to These Common Foods Could Cause Rashes, Asthma, Stuffy Nose, Mood Swings, Restlessness or Difficulty Focusing
There are so many different dietary protocols out there it can be overwhelming... Do eat avocados because they're anti-inflammatory... Don't eat avocados because they can trigger a histamine response... Go plant based... go carnivore... do this, do that. The reality...
Unexplained Runny Nose, Skin Issues, Bloating or Fatigue? If You Have Any of These Symptoms You May Have Histamine Food Intolerance
A blocked nose, puffy eyes, a crushing fear of cut grass… If you’ve ever suffered from seasonal allergies you'll have come across histamines before. The likelihood is you will have been prescribed antihistamines in the form of sprays or tablets to help manage...
7 ‘Secret Starches’ You Need to Be Aware Of
If you're trying to cut out starch to manage your ankylosing spondylitis there can be a few unexpected hurdles to navigate... One of these is the 'secret starches' you'll find hidden in everyday food. These are starches that food manufacturers often use to bulk up...
9 Ways to Budget on the Starch Free Diet for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Key Points: Set up price alerts, buy in bulk when sales are on and use 'cashback' sites for further savings Find out when supermarkets label their reduced items and check out these awesome food waste apps Try making your own foods and supplements Buying...
How Long Should I Follow the Starch Free Diet for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
It's a really common question: "How long should I follow the Low Starch Diet for Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)?" The short and honest answer is this: For as long as needed. For many people that will be forever. Others might find that a few years down the line (usually...
Can I Still Eat Out on the Starch Free Diet for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
You're committed to the Starch Free Diet for Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), and you've got your home meal plan working for you. But what about eating out? Can you still enjoy a night out at a restaurant without betraying the diet? That's the focus of this article. I'll...
Why is the Starch Free Diet Effective?
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis and autoimmune disease that mainly affects the spine, causing inflammation and pain. Over time, it can lead to stiffness and fusion of the vertebrae which makes movement increasingly difficult and painful. Although...
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects Associated With the Starch Free Diet for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
This is something that's often asked by concerned and caring loved ones... "Is it safe?" "Are you getting the nutrients you need on this diet?" "How can you cut out a whole food group, effectively?!" There is a lot to cover here, so we'll try and take it step by step....
How to Check Any Food or Ingredient For Starch (The 2 Second Iodine Test)
Key Points: Place 1 - 2 drops of iodine on any food to test for starchIf the iodine stays the same colour it's starch free If it turns black it contains starch This is such a simple method. Anyone can do this at any time and in any place (whether you are at home or in...
Using Diet to Treat Ankylosing Spondylitis (Read This First)
Key Points: The AS diet was used to treat over 450 AS patients at the London Middlesex hospital 50% of these patients no longer required medication as a result of the diet Most rheumatologists have never heard of this diet (don't let that put you off!) If...
About the Starch Free Diet for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Key Points: The diet was created by immunologist and consultant rheumatologist Alan Ebringer It is based on evidence of a link between the Klebsiella microbe, autoimmune disorders and ankylosing spondylitis Klebsiella primarily feeds off starch (hence the 'starch...
7 Ways to Stave Off Hunger on the Starch Free Diet for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Key Points: Increase your portion sizes (especially fats and proteins) for regular meals Drink plenty of water throughout the day Build up a emergency tool kit of safe snacks Hunger is one of the biggest problems you'll face when starting the no starch diet....
Can the Starch Free Diet ‘Cure’ Ankylosing Spondylitis?
The official line is this... There is currently no established cure for ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Instead there are treatment options. These are designed to manage symptoms, relieve pain, and slow disease progression. These methods can involve medications, dietary...
What Foods Are Allowed on the Starch Free Diet?
🕑 Please note: this is a 2 minute explainer page You can see the more detailed 'safe foods' page here The following is a list of foods that are generally safe, for most people, when starting their AS Wellness Plan. 🍴 Meat and Fish ✔️Chicken✔️ Seafood...
What Foods Should Be Avoided on the Starch Free Diet?
🕑 Please note: this is a 2 minute explainer page. You can see the more detailed 'foods to avoid' page here The fastest route to pain-free is to avoid everything on the list below when you are first starting out. This is about building your personal AS wellness plan...
Is the Starch Free Diet for Ankylosing Spondylitis Difficult to Follow?
For many people with ankylosing spondylitis, the Starch Free Diet (also known as the London AS Diet or the Low / No Starch Diet) can be a powerful way to manage their symptoms. The guiding principle behind the diet is that eliminating starches helps to minimise...