The Autoimmune Protocol in 2026 | Deep Dive (Ep 051)
The Autoimmune Protocol in 2026 | Deep Dive (Ep 051)  
Podcast: The Autoimmune Wellness Podcast
Published On: Mon Jan 05 2026
Description: Episode 51: The Autoimmune Protocol in 2026There’s a lot of confusion about the Autoimmune Protocol—what it is, what it isn’t, and whether it actually works. In this episode, Mickey cuts through the noise to share the real story behind AIP and how it’s evolved in 2026.As someone who’s been part of the AIP movement since the very beginning, Mickey explains how AIP grew from a grassroots experiment into a research-backed framework used worldwide to support people living with autoimmune disease. She also breaks down the major 2024 update to AIP, including the introduction of Core AIP and Modified AIP, and how to decide which approach is right for you.This episode kicks off the AIP Deep Dive series and lays the foundation for using AIP as a temporary, educational process—not a lifelong restrictive diet.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the Autoimmune Protocol really is (and what it’s not)How AIP evolved from patient experimentation to published researchThe three phases of AIP: Transition, Elimination, and ReintroductionThe difference between Core AIP and Modified AIPHow AIP supports gut health, immune regulation, and inflammationWhat the science says about AIP and autoimmune diseaseCommon myths and misconceptions about AIPHow to know if AIP is the right tool for youResources:AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, and reintroduction guides.AIP Certified Coach Program – Advanced training for licensed healthcare providers who want to use AIP safely and effectively in clinical practice, or find a coach in the worldwide directory.Episode Timeline:00:00 – Introduction: Why AIP is misunderstood02:45 – Autoimmune disease overview & Mickey’s story05:06 – The origins of the Autoimmune Protocol07:06 – What AIP is and how it works08:01 – Phase 1: The Transition Phase10:32 – Phase 2: Elimination (Core AIP vs. Modified AIP)16:45 – Phase 3: Reintroduction19:49 – How AIP supports gut health, immunity, and inflammation22:29 – Recovery stories & medical research25:10 – The 2024 update: Core vs. Modified AIP27:32 – Myths and controversies about AIP29:51 – Is AIP right for you?30:15 – Wrap-up & what’s coming next