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 several years) they have healed their gut to such an extent that they are able to tolerate small amounts of starch and dairy in their food.

Or at the very least they can be a it less militant about it.

As mentioned elsewhere on this site, the diet is based on the idea that reducing starch intake can limit the growth of Klebsiella bacteria, which have been linked to AS.

The goal is to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

But, as with most diets, one size does not fit all, so let’s break down the factors that may affect the duration

Everyone’s is different

Every person with AS has a unique experience with the disease.

Some may find relief after a few weeks, while others may need to stick to the diet for several months before they notice any effect at all.

And after that it is all about maintaining.

I like to think of it in the same way a celiac thinks about gluten.

Both ankylosing spondylitis and celiac disease are autoimmune disorders.

A celiac doesn’t think: “I’ll just cut down gluten for a bit and then go back to it”.

They understand that it’s something that their immune system has a very strong reaction to, that their body is not designed to cope with it and so they avoid.

That’s one way of looking at the starch free diet for AS.

The key is to be patient and monitor your symptoms closely.

In the end, the duration of the Starch Free diet for AS will vary from person to person.

It’s crucial to listen to your body, monitor your symptoms, and adjust your diet accordingly.

Don’t forget to consult with your doctor (to ensure it’s safe to make dietary changes) and remember – you’re not alone in this journey!

There’s a whole community of people with AS out there, sharing tips and experiences. So, stay strong, keep experimenting, and may the starch-free force be with you!