How it works

Revero’s nutrition therapy is a personalized low-carbohydrate diet that is designed to restore metabolic health and reduce inflammation and autoimmunity. We target food-related sensitivities and reduce specific food groups that are known to contribute to specific health conditions. The goal is to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels as well as reduce inflammation.

We personalize both the food list and the carbohydrate target. For example, for someone with metabolic conditions we opt for low carbohydrate protocols that help them restore insulin sensitivity, whereas for someone with autoimmune conditions, we may allow more carbohydrates, but focus on eliminating some foods that are known to cause inflammation, such as dairy and nuts.

Flexibility

Our goal is to provide a flexible diet where you can enjoy as many foods as you can, while eliminating the main key foods that contribute to your health issues. This is to allow more flexibility in the diet while removing the most problematic foods. Each specific protocol might ask to limit or completely avoid specific foods. For example, you may see the dairy free protocol might suggest for some people to limit dairy, and for others to completely avoid them.

Already done low carb?

For people who have previously been on low carbohydrate diets and want to take their health to the next level, we have a specific program based on their health conditions and circumstances. This personalized plan includes which low carbohydrate foods are best to incorporate or limit. This can also be used as a guidance on what foods to reintroduce into your diet after doing a very strict elimination diet.

Progression

As you progress through the program, we can adjust your personalized nutrition therapy including the food list and carbohydrate target. In some cases, the clinical team may suggest to further eliminate specific foods and reduce the carbohydrate intake in order to achieve better progress towards your health goals. Conversely, if there has been great progress on your health goals, it might be time to carefully reintroduce some foods back into the diet, while working with the coach to closely monitor your symptoms.

You can also ask for an easier or harder diet depending on your needs. For example, if you want to try a stricter diet because you are eager to push your progress to the next level, or if you want an easier diet because you are struggling to remain compliant with the current diet, we can accommodate that. In all cases, the clinical team is in touch and monitoring your progress via daily biomarkers or periodic lab tests to help achieve your health goals and provide a personalized treatment.

The Revero Nutrition Protocols

Revero’s personalized nutrition therapy provides a custom plan for each patient to address the root cause of their health conditions. We offer specific nutrition protocols to target food-related sensitivities that contribute to chronic conditions.

Revero nutrition therapy can selectively apply some of these personalized protocols for each patient based on their unique situation:

• Protocols rooted in ancestral human diet: Grain and Legume Free, Sugar Free, Dairy Free, Soy Free, and Seed Oil Free
• Protocols that limit allergens: Nut and Seed-Free, Egg-Free, Nightshade-Free, Food Additives and Sweeteners-Free, and Fruit-Free
• Protocols that reduce gut irritants: Low FODMAP, Low Fiber, Caffeine-Free, and Alcohol-Free protocols
• Protocols that reduce phytotoxins: Low Oxalate, Low Lectin, Low Salicylate, and Low Spice

Please note that not every protocol discussed here may be relevant to every individual’s recommended Revero diet, as our nutritional therapy is tailored to meet the unique health conditions and needs of each person.

For each protocol, we provide the science behind the protocol, highlighting how certain foods can impact inflammation, metabolism, nutrient absorption, gut health, and overall health. We offer insights into how a healthy diet can be integrated into daily life for better health and well-being.

Revero Nutrition Therapy Is Rooted in Ancestral Human Nutrition

The Ancestral Diet is crafted to combat inflammatory, autoimmune, gastrointestinal, and metabolic conditions. By removing modern processed foods and reverting to natural, whole ingredients, these protocols aim to reduce inflammation, stabilize blood sugar levels, and enhance overall health.

Grain and legume free

The Grain and Legume Free protocol is recommended for individuals with inflammatory, gastrointestinal, and metabolic conditions. This protocol involves avoiding foods such as bread, pasta, rice, corn, oats, wheat, barley, cereals, oatmeal, lentils, chickpeas, beans, green peas, quinoa, and sorghum.

Grains and legumes can contribute to inflammation, as they may contain compounds that trigger inflammatory responses in the body. Additionally, grains and legumes can influence blood sugar and insulin levels, often leading to spikes and imbalances that complicate metabolic health. These foods are also known to irritate the gut, potentially exacerbating symptoms in those with sensitive digestive systems.

Furthermore, they can contribute to gut hyper-permeability, commonly referred to as "leaky gut," where the intestinal barrier becomes compromised, allowing undigested food particles and toxins to enter the bloodstream.

Sugar free

The Sugar-Free protocol is recommended for managing inflammatory, gastrointestinal, and metabolic conditions. This protocol involves avoiding sugars and sweeteners such as sugar, corn syrup, honey, maple syrup, fructose syrup, agave syrup, coconut sugar, beet sugar, palm sugar, as well as sweetened drinks, juices, ketchup, barbeque sauce, and cereals.

Regular intake of sugar can lead to significant blood sugar and insulin issues, including spikes and crashes that contribute to insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes. Sugar also promotes inflammation, a biological response linked to a host of chronic diseases, from arthritis to cardiovascular disorders.

Beyond these effects, sugar can adversely affect gut health by contributing to gut hyper-permeability, often referred to as "leaky gut," where the integrity of the intestinal barrier is compromised, allowing harmful substances to infiltrate the bloodstream.

Additionally, sugar disrupts the balance of the gut microbiome, the complex community of microorganisms in the digestive tract, which can lead to digestive disorders, compromised immune function, and other health issues.

Dairy free

The Dairy-Free protocol is recommended for managing inflammatory, gastrointestinal, and some metabolic conditions. This protocol involves avoiding dairy products such as milk, cheeses, butter, ice cream, yogurt, sour cream, cream cheese, heavy cream, frozen yogurt, casein, and whey.

Inflammation is one significant concern, as many individuals have inflammatory responses to dairy products, which can exacerbate conditions like arthritis, acne, and even more serious inflammatory diseases.

Overconsumption of dairy products can also pose challenges in weight management; high in fats and calories, dairy can contribute to weight gain if not consumed in moderation.

Furthermore, dairy allergies are among the most common food allergies, with symptoms ranging from mild digestive discomfort to severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.

Another crucial issue is the hormonal imbalance that can arise from dairy. Dairy contains hormones and bioactive molecules that can affect human hormone levels, potentially impacting everything from growth patterns to hormonal conditions like estrogen dominance.

Soy free

The Soy-Free protocol is recommended for managing inflammatory and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding soy-based products such as soybeans, tofu, soy milk, soybean oil, tempeh, soy sauce, edamame, and miso.

Soy consumption can cause inflammation, particularly in sensitive individuals. This inflammation can manifest as digestive discomfort, skin issues, or more chronic inflammatory conditions.

Additionally, soy contains phytates and other anti-nutrients that can block the absorption of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, potentially leading to deficiencies despite adequate intake.

Also, soy impacts hormonal balance. Soy is rich in isoflavones, compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. While beneficial in some contexts, these compounds can disrupt normal hormone levels, potentially affecting thyroid function and reproductive health, especially in sensitive individuals or when consumed in large amounts.

Seed oil free

The Seed Oil-Free protocol is recommended for managing inflammatory and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding seed oils such as canola oil, soybean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, peanut oil, sesame oil, cottonseed oil, grapeseed oil, walnut oil, flax oil, and palm kernel oil.

A primary issue is the promotion of inflammation; many seed oils contain high levels of omega-6 fatty acids, which can upset the critical balance with omega-3 fatty acids and foster systemic inflammation when consumed in excess.

This inflammation is a contributing factor to chronic diseases, including arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Moreover, despite being marketed as heart-healthy, certain seed oils may actually increase the risk of heart disease.

The processing of these oils often involves high heat and chemical treatments that can transform their fatty acids into trans fats or other harmful compounds, which are known to negatively impact cardiovascular health.

Additionally, these oils are susceptible to oxidative damage when exposed to heat, light, or air. This oxidation process not only degrades the oil's quality but also produces91086-5/fulltext) free radicals that can damage cells and DNA, leading to long-term health issues, including cancer and premature aging.

Revero Nutrition Therapy Limits Allergens

Designed for individuals grappling with food sensitivities, these protocols focus on alleviating symptoms linked to inflammatory, autoimmune, gastrointestinal, and certain metabolic disorders. Each addresses specific allergens from proteins in eggs to solanine in nightshades and fructose in fruits, tackling the root causes of food-related sensitivities.

Nut and seed free

The Nut and Seed-Free protocol is recommended for individuals with inflammatory, gastrointestinal, and some metabolic conditions. This protocol involves avoiding nuts and seeds such as almonds, peanuts, cashews, pistachios, walnuts, pecans, macadamias, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, and related products like nut butters, almond milk, and various flours. It also suggests limiting coconut products like coconut milk and coconut cream.

Consuming nuts and seeds can cause inflammation since some individuals may experience inflammatory responses to specific phytotoxins, proteins, or fats found in nuts and seeds.

Additionally, nuts and seeds contain phytic acid, an anti-nutrient that can bind to minerals such as iron, zinc, and calcium, blocking their absorption and potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies.

Their high caloric density can also inhibit weight loss efforts if consumed in excessive amounts, as they can contribute to a higher overall caloric intake.

Egg free

The Egg-Free protocol is recommended for managing inflammatory and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding all forms of eggs, including chicken eggs, duck eggs, quail eggs, as well as products containing eggs like mayonnaise and egg whites.

Egg consumption, while highly nutritious for many, can also lead to inflammation and allergies for some people. Eggs, especially the proteins found in egg whites, are common allergens that can trigger immune responses ranging from mild to severe. These allergic reactions can manifest as skin rashes, gastrointestinal discomfort, or even anaphylactic shock in extreme cases.

Additionally, for those with sensitivities, the consumption of eggs can provoke inflammatory responses, which may exacerbate symptoms in conditions like arthritis, eczema, or other inflammatory diseases. This inflammation is often a reaction to substances within the eggs that the body recognizes as harmful, leading to an immune response designed to fight off these perceived threats.

Nightshade free

The Nightshade-Free protocol is recommended for individuals with inflammatory and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding nightshade plants like tomatoes, white and red potatoes, peppers, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, eggplant, tomatillos, ketchup, and hot sauce.

One of the primary issues is inflammation; these vegetables contain alkaloids, such as solanine and capsaicin, which can provoke an inflammatory response in susceptible individuals. This inflammation can exacerbate conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

Additionally, nightshades are implicated in contributing to gut hyper-permeability, or "leaky gut." The alkaloids can irritate the gut lining, potentially leading to a compromised barrier function, which allows toxins and undigested food particles to pass into the bloodstream, triggering further immune responses.

Furthermore, nightshades have alkaloids that have been observed to impact nerve-muscle function and neurotransmitter release, potentially affecting mood and cognitive function.

Food additives and sweeteners free

The Food Additives and Sweeteners Free protocol is recommended for individuals with inflammatory and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding artificial additives and sweeteners such as xylitol, erythritol, stevia, sucralose (Splenda), monk fruit, sulfites, monosodium glutamate (MSG), aspartame, high fructose corn syrup, xanthan gum, saccharin, and common items like sweetened drinks, sugar-free soda, beer, ketchup, and mayonnaise.

The protocol also recommends limiting processed meats, cheeses, nut butters, non-dairy milks, coconut cream, dry wines, and mustard.

Food additives and artificial sweeteners can trigger inflammatory responses, as the body may treat them as foreign invaders, leading to chronic inflammation, which is linked to various diseases. Additionally, artificial sweeteners, despite being low in calories, can paradoxically induce sugar cravings and spur insulin release due to their sweet taste, potentially disrupting blood sugar management and contributing to metabolic disorders.

Allergic reactions are another concern, as certain additives can provoke symptoms ranging from mild itching to severe anaphylactic responses in sensitive individuals. Furthermore, these chemicals can contribute to gut hyper-permeability, or "leaky gut," where the intestinal barrier becomes compromised, allowing toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream.

This disruption can lead to systemic inflammation and immune responses. Lastly, the gut microbiome, essential for overall health, can be adversely affected by additives and sweeteners. They can kill beneficial gut bacteria or promote harmful ones, leading to dysbiosis—a microbial imbalance that can cause digestive issues, immune dysfunction, and other health problems.

Fruit free

The Fruit-Free protocol is recommended for managing metabolic conditions. It involves avoiding a wide range of fruits including bananas, apples, oranges, strawberries, grapes, watermelon, blueberries, mango, pineapple, tomatoes, peaches, plums, cherries, raspberries, blackberries, melon, kiwi, grapefruit, pears, cantaloupe, papaya, apricot, and dried fruits.

Fruit consumption, while generally considered healthy, can pose specific health challenges concerning blood sugar management and fructose intolerance. The natural sugars in fruits, mainly fructose, can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to subsequent elevations in insulin.

This process can be particularly problematic for individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance, as their bodies struggle to manage these sudden increases in blood glucose effectively. Over time, repeated insulin spikes may exacerbate insulin resistance and contribute to the progression of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, fructose intolerance is a notable concern.

Some individuals cannot properly digest fructose, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, cramps, and diarrhea. This condition, known as fructose malabsorption, can severely limit the types of fruits some people can consume without discomfort. For those with fructose intolerance, even small amounts of fruit can trigger uncomfortable digestive issues. Therefore, those with fructose intolerance or issues with blood sugar regulation need to limit or eliminate fruits.

Revero Nutrition Therapy Reduces Gut Irritants

These protocols aim to reduce the intake of foods that may cause gastrointestinal distress and broader health issues, including systemic inflammation and autoimmunity. The protocols are designed to foster gut health and overall well-being. Whether it's reducing fiber to soothe the gut, eliminating caffeine to prevent its stimulatory effects, or avoiding alcohol to curb its negative impact on digestion, each protocol guides individuals toward better health.

Low FODMAP

The Low FODMAP protocol is designed for managing gastrointestinal conditions, particularly irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It involves avoiding foods high in FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Monosaccharides And Polyols).

This includes apples, almonds, onions, garlic, mushrooms, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts, celery, artichoke, yogurt, watermelon, cherries, peaches, mango, plums, pears, apricot, avocado, blackberries, beets, pistachios, cashews, honey, coconut sugar, agave syrup or nectar, xylitol, sugar-free soda, garlic powder, dried fruit, shallots, leeks, chives, scallions, wheat and wheat products, cow’s milk, soft cheese, beans, lentils, and sauerkraut.

It also advises limiting the intake of bananas, blueberries, raspberries, melon, grapefruit, sweet potatoes, yams, nuts, nut flours, mint, eggplant, butternut squash, coconut, and soy sauce.

FODMAPs01407-8/fulltext) are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and when consumed, can cause symptoms like bloating, gas, and other IBS-related discomforts. These symptoms arise because FODMAPs are readily fermented by gut bacteria, producing gas and drawing water into the gut, which exacerbates bloating and alters bowel habits.

Moreover, FODMAPs can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome. By promoting the growth of certain bacteria over others, it can lead to dysbiosis—a microbial imbalance that might contribute to chronic digestive issues and potentially influence systemic health conditions. Additionally, the increased water retention in the gut, a result of osmotic effects of these undigested sugars, can lead to diarrhea and discomfort.

Another significant concern with high FODMAP intake is its potential to contribute to gut hyper-permeability. This can trigger immune responses and inflammation, potentially leading to a variety of health issues beyond the digestive system.

Low fiber

The Low Fiber protocol is advised for managing gastrointestinal conditions, particularly for easing symptoms such as bloating and gut irritation. It involves avoiding high-fiber foods such as whole grains, beans, bran, lentils, nuts, seeds, nut flours, barley, oatmeal, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts, kale, collards, avocados, sweet potatoes, yams, winter squash, raspberries, blackberries, artichokes, garlic, dried fruit, peanuts, popcorn, corn, and raw vegetables.

It also recommends limiting the intake of fruits like bananas, apples, oranges, and vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, and lettuce, among others.

High fiber consumption can also lead to several gastrointestinal issues, especially in individuals with digestive disorders. It can cause bloating and gas. These symptoms occur because fiber is fermented by bacteria in the colon, producing gas as a byproduct. This process can lead to discomfort and distension, particularly for those with sensitive digestive systems.

Additionally, while fiber is often recommended to alleviate constipation, paradoxically, excessive fiber intake can sometimes exacerbate constipation, especially without adequate hydration, making stools hard and difficult to pass, thus leading to constipation.

Furthermore, for some people, particularly those with conditions like IBS, excessive fiber can cause gut irritation. This irritation can lead to additional symptoms such as cramping and a sense of urgency with bowel movements.

Caffeine free

The Caffeine-Free protocol is recommended for managing certain gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding caffeine-containing products such as coffee, black tea, green tea, oolong tea, chocolate, some sodas, and energy drinks.

Caffeine increases gastric acid secretion, which can exacerbate conditions like gastritis and lead to discomfort for those with sensitive digestive systems. Additionally, caffeine can compromise sleep quality which can affect overall well-being and mental health.

Furthermore, excessive caffeine intake has been linked to insulin resistance. The stimulant can interfere with glucose metabolism, potentially raising blood sugar levels and making it more difficult for insulin to regulate these levels effectively, which over time, can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Alcohol free

The Alcohol-Free protocol is recommended for managing certain inflammatory, metabolic, and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, vodka, whiskey, rum, tequila, gin, and hard seltzers.

Alcohol can cause gut irritation as alcohol can damage the lining of the digestive tract, leading to discomfort and digestive problems. Alcohol also complicates weight management efforts; it is high in calories and can inhibit fat burning while promoting fat storage, making weight loss more challenging.

Additionally, regular alcohol intake can lead to nutritional deficiencies, as it interferes with the absorption and metabolism of vital nutrients. Another significant issue is gut hyper-permeability, or "leaky gut," where alcohol damages the intestinal barrier, allowing toxins to enter the bloodstream and potentially triggering systemic inflammation.

This inflammation, coupled with direct toxic effects on liver cells, can result in liver damage, including conditions such as fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Furthermore, alcohol disrupts the balance of the gut microbiome, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and a decrease in beneficial bacteria. This can exacerbate digestive issues and negatively impact overall health.

Revero Nutrition Therapy Reduces Phytotoxins

Focused on minimizing the consumption of naturally occurring plant compounds that could be detrimental to health, these protocols address the intake of phytotoxins. Such compounds can exacerbate inflammation, disrupt digestive functions, and lead to other health complications. Our protocols are tailored to diminish the intake of these phytotoxins, helping individuals reduce inflammation, enhance nutrient absorption, and alleviate digestive discomfort.

Low oxalates

The Low Oxalate protocol is advised for managing certain inflammatory and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding high-oxalate foods such as grains, legumes, chocolate, all teas (black, green, oolong), hot sauce, blueberries, nuts, seeds, nut butters, tofu, beets, potatoes, rhubarb, spinach, sweet potatoes, wheat, buckwheat, black beans, soy products, quinoa, peanuts, and curry powder.

The protocol also recommends limiting the intake of chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, dill, parsley, black pepper, almond milk, tomatoes, strawberries, blackberries, citrus fruits, peppers, plantains, leafy greens (arugula, collards, kale), rice, oats, oranges, and grapes.

High oxalate consumption can lead to a variety of health issues due to the way oxalates interact with the body's physiological processes. One of the primary concerns is inflammation and tissue damage; oxalates can accumulate in tissues, causing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. These may lead to cellular damage and contribute to chronic health issues.

In the digestive system, high levels of oxalates can cause gut irritation, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain and digestive discomfort. Furthermore, oxalates can bind with minerals like calcium in the gut, interfering with the absorption of these essential nutrients and potentially leading to mineral deficiencies.

One of the most well-known consequences of excessive oxalate intake is the formation of kidney stones. Oxalates can bind with calcium to form calcium oxalate kidney stones, which are painful and can obstruct urinary pathways. Additionally, these compounds can contribute to broader urinary tract issues, including inflammation and irritation.

Low lectin

The Low Lectin protocol is recommended for managing certain inflammatory and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding high-lectin foods such as plantains, potatoes (white, red), sweet potatoes, yams, pumpkin, winter squash, tapioca flour, wheat, barley, rye, black beans, kidney beans, soybeans, soy sauce, peanuts, and lentils.

The protocol also suggests limiting the intake of tomatoes, cashews, seeds, green beans, turnips, chickpeas, oats, corn, squash, eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.

Lectins can cause inflammation, as they bind to the gut lining and irritate the digestive tract. This irritation can lead to gut hyper-permeability or "leaky gut," where the intestinal barrier becomes compromised, allowing undigested particles and toxins to pass into the bloodstream and trigger immune responses.

Additionally, the binding property of lectins can interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients by attaching to the intestinal cells, thereby inhibiting their proper uptake and leading to nutrient deficiencies.

Low salicylate

The Low Salicylate protocol is recommended for managing some inflammatory and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding high salicylate foods such as strawberries, grapes, blackberries, citrus fruits, peppers, dark chocolate, hot sauce, blueberries, beets, rhubarb, spinach, vinegar, and products like ketchup, pasta sauce, tomato paste, wine, and beer.

The protocol also recommends limiting intake of arugula, collards, kale, macadamias, flax seeds, certain herbs and spices, dried fruit, soy products, tomatoes, herbal teas, honey, mustard, sweet potatoes, cucumber, and zucchini.

Salicylates can cause inflammation by triggering an inflammatory response in the body, especially in those who have an intolerance or sensitivity to them. This can manifest as various symptoms, including digestive discomfort, skin rashes, and respiratory difficulties.

Additionally, allergic reactions are a significant risk associated with high salicylate consumption. These reactions can vary widely in severity, from mild itching and discomfort to more severe responses such as hives or anaphylaxis, particularly in those with a heightened sensitivity.

Low spice

The Low Spice protocol is recommended for managing some inflammatory and gastrointestinal conditions. It involves avoiding highly spicy foods like peppers, hot sauce, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, wasabi, horseradish, tabasco sauce, and jalapeños.

The protocol also suggests limiting the intake of black pepper, mustard, mustard seeds, ginger, and curry powder.

Consuming spicy foods can lead to inflammation and digestive discomfort. The capsaicin in spicy foods, which provides the heat sensation, can irritate the digestive tract lining. This irritation can manifest as stomach pain and acid reflux, and in severe cases, it can exacerbate conditions like gastritis and peptic ulcers.

Furthermore, the inflammatory response triggered by the capsaicin can lead to systemic inflammation, particularly in sensitive individuals or those who consume it in large amounts. This inflammation is not just limited to the digestive system but can also affect other areas of the body, potentially contributing to a range of inflammatory conditions.

Closing Remarks

Again, it is important to note that not all the protocols we discuss here may be relevant to everyone’s personalized Revero diet since our nutrition therapy is customized to suit each individual’s specific health conditions and needs.

At Revero, we are committed to providing personalized nutrition therapy that helps our patients navigate their health journey with personalized dietary strategies based on nutrition science. Let’s embark on this journey to living a healthier life, free from the discomfort of chronic disease.