.png)
Dr. Scott McMahon 575-627-5571
CIRS Diet & Detox
Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, a pioneer in the field of mold-related illnesses and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), developed a comprehensive approach to managing CIRS, including dietary recommendations that help reduce inflammation and support detoxification. One of the key components of his protocol is a low-amylose diet, which is designed to starve mold and fungi, support the immune system, and promote healing.
​​
Dr. Shoemaker’s Low-Amylose Diet for CIRS
​
The low-amylose diet is central to Dr. Shoemaker's protocol for treating CIRS. Amylose is a type of complex carbohydrate (starch) that molds and fungi use as a fuel source. By restricting foods high in amylose, the diet helps reduce the body's exposure to mycotoxins and lowers inflammation, aiding the body in recovery.​​
Foods to Avoid on Dr. Shoemaker’s Low-Amylose Diet:
​
​
​
​
​
​
To help control inflammation and reduce mold and mycotoxin exposure, it’s important to limit or avoid the following foods:
​
1. Grains: - Wheat, oats, rye, barley - Rice, corn - Processed foods containing grains (bread, cereals, pasta)
​
2. Starchy Vegetables: - Potatoes, sweet potatoes - Beets, parsnips, and other root vegetables high in amylose
​
3. Legumes: - Beans (kidney, black, pinto, etc.) - Lentils - Peas (including chickpeas)
​
4. Fruits (that are high in amylose): - Bananas - Plantains
​
5. Dairy: - Aged cheeses, which may contribute to fungal growth
​
6. Sugary Foods: - Foods with added sugars (sucrose, glucose, high-fructose corn syrup) - Processed foods containing sweeteners like maltodextrin
​
7. Other Foods to Avoid: - Vinegars - Fermented foods - Mushrooms (due to their fungal nature)
Foods to Enjoy on Dr. Shoemaker’s Low-Amylose Diet:
​
Focus on non-starchy, nutrient-dense foods that support the immune system and help reduce inflammation. These include:
​
1. Non-Starchy Vegetables:
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce)
- Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts)
- Peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, zucchini
​
2. Fruits:
- Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
- Citrus fruits (lemons, limes, oranges)
​
3. Proteins:
- Clean, organic proteins like chicken, turkey, and grass-fed beef
- Fish and seafood
- Eggs (preferably organic)
​
4. Healthy Fats:
- Avocados
- Olive oil, coconut oil
- Nuts and seeds (in moderation)
Why the Low-Amylose Diet Works for CIRS
Reduces Fungal Fuel: By eliminating amylose-rich foods, you deprive molds and fungi of the simple sugars they need to thrive, which helps reduce their impact on your body.
Lowers Inflammation: This diet naturally reduces inflammation by avoiding processed and high-glycemic foods that can spike blood sugar and trigger inflammatory responses.
Supports Detox Pathways: With less dietary burden, the immune system and detox pathways can focus on eliminating accumulated mycotoxins.
​
​
​
​
​
​
Additional Guidelines:
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports detoxification and helps flush toxins from the body.
Follow a Low-Inflammatory Lifestyle: Combining the diet with other lifestyle changes, such as stress management and environmental remediation, optimizes recovery.
Work with a Functional Medicine Provider: Since each case of CIRS is unique, it’s important to personalize your diet and treatment plan with the help of a healthcare provider trained in Dr. Shoemaker’s protocol.
How Long to Follow the Diet
The duration of the low-amylose diet will vary depending on the severity of CIRS and individual progress. Many patients stay on the diet for months or even years, but the goal is to eventually find a sustainable dietary pattern that supports long-term health.
Conclusion
Dr. Shoemaker's low-amylose diet is an essential part of the treatment protocol for CIRS, helping to reduce mold exposure, lower inflammation, and support the body's detoxification processes. This diet is personalized and should be followed under the guidance of a functional medicine doctor familiar with CIRS protocols.
