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Have you ever wondered just how impactful nutrition can be on your health?
At Paracelsus Clinic Lustmühle, we witness daily how powerful the right nutrition can be in supporting recovery. Since 1958, our Culinarium “Zum Winkelstein” has provided plant-based, holistic nutrition that nourishes both our patients and our clinic team. As one of the first clinics to place nutrition at the heart of treatment, we’ve helped countless people and continue to achieve impressive results.
Our Paracelsus Elimination Diet forms the core of our nutritional therapy and is rooted in the three pillars of our holistic medical approach. Read on to discover how this special diet helps detoxify the body, strengthen the gut, and enable sustainable regeneration.
What is the Paracelsus Elimination Diet and Why Is It So Effective?
The Paracelsus Elimination Diet is the result of years of research and experience in the field of biological medicine. It combines plant-based, hypoallergenic foods with targeted nutritional therapy, specifically designed for people with chronic diseases. Our experience shows that the diet aligns with the Paracelsus 3-Pillar Approach, which effectively and sustainably supports health.
1. Detoxification: Cleansing the Body from Within
Why detoxification? Every day, we encounter a variety of pollutants—from environmental toxins and heavy metals to metabolic waste. The Paracelsus Elimination Diet is designed to detoxify the body effectively while easing the workload on the liver and other essential organs. Here are some of the benefits:
- Reduced toxin load: Plant-based foods prevent the accumulation of pollutants, which are often found in animal products or fish.
- Promoting liver function: Chlorophyll and other phytonutrients support the liver in its detoxification role, helping to cleanse the body’s internal environment.
This conscious nutrition creates the ideal foundation for better health and actively supports the body in breaking down toxins and achieving a healthy balance.
2. Healthy Gut and Strong Immune System: Avoiding Allergens and Strengthening Gut Flora
Why is gut health so crucial? A healthy gut is central to overall well-being. The Paracelsus Elimination Diet emphasizes hypoallergenic, anti-inflammatory foods that ease the burden on the immune system and support gut flora—a critical step in managing chronic illnesses and stabilizing long-term health.
- Hypoallergenic: By excluding dairy, gluten, and other common allergens, the immune system is less burdened.
- Supporting gut flora: Soluble fibers, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), vitamin A, zinc, and L-glutamine help heal the intestinal lining and alleviate leaky gut syndrome.
- Anti-inflammatory: This plant-based, anti-inflammatory diet supports the gut lining and reduces systemic inflammation.
By reinforcing gut and immune health, the Paracelsus Elimination Diet lays the groundwork for sustainable wellness and the prevention of chronic diseases.
3. Regeneration and Rebuilding: Essential Nutrients for the Body
Why is regeneration important? For holistic healing, it’s crucial that the body is not only detoxified and strengthened but also restored. The Paracelsus Elimination Diet centers on nutrient-rich, vegan dishes that facilitate regeneration:
- Nutrient-dense foods: Our plant-based, gluten-free meals supply essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements that support metabolism and stimulate cellular renewal.
- Restoring internal balance: The diet aids in balancing the internal environment, helping to restore and regulate microbiome diversity.
- Enhancing other therapies: By reducing the workload on the liver and other organs, the Paracelsus Elimination Diet boosts the effectiveness of other therapeutic measures offered at the clinic.
This approach promotes both physical and mental renewal, laying the foundation for lasting health and wellness.
For optimal detoxification, Paracelsus dentistry holds significant importance for us. Our longstanding collaboration with the Paracelsus Dental Clinic has proven to be highly impactful for our patients. Individuals with neurodegenerative diseases are advised through dental tomography and toxicological examinations to explore the possibility of a dental condition triggering the illness. It is noteworthy how frequently dental and heavy metal loads accompany neurodegenerative diseases and can directly influence the course of the disease positively after proper dental restoration.
Why We Avoid Animal Protein at Paracelsus Clinic
The Paracelsus Elimination Diet is based on a careful selection of foods that detoxify the body, strengthen the gut, and support regeneration. Below, we explain why we avoid certain foods, such as animal proteins.
1. Meat and Fish Are Major Sources of Accumulated Toxins
Animal tissues are natural reservoirs for chemicals and toxins, which are then passed on to humans who consume meat. Today’s industrial animal farming further heightens this accumulation. Animals are often confined in cramped spaces, fed highly processed feed, and routinely exposed to antibiotics, vaccines, pesticides, and toxins (e.g., aflatoxin) from corn, soy, and grain feed. These substances accumulate in animal tissues and ultimately enter the human food chain (1). For optimal detoxification, we recommend avoiding meat entirely—even if it is labeled “organic.”
Toxins in Fish
Fish pose a particular risk due to biomagnification in the food chain, where predatory fish accumulate significant toxins, including:
Methylmercury: A highly toxic form of mercury that builds up in fish muscle tissue, especially in large fish like sharks, swordfish, king mackerel, and tuna.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): Industrial chemicals banned in many countries but still present in the environment, accumulating in fish fat and found in both freshwater and saltwater fish.
Dioxins: Highly toxic compounds produced through industrial processes and the burning of organic materials, which build up in fish fat and may cause reproductive and developmental issues, immune system damage, hormonal disruption, and cancer.
Dibenzofurans: Related to dioxins, these pollutants are byproducts of industrial processes and waste incineration, accumulating in fish fat.
DDT and its Metabolites (DDE and DDD): These pesticides, though banned due to harmful environmental effects, are still detectable in the environment and present in fish.
Chlordane: Another banned pesticide that remains in the environment and can still be found in fish.
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs): Flame retardants found in various consumer goods, detected in fish and linked to thyroid disruption and neurodevelopmental issues.
Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs): Used in products like non-stick cookware, PFCs circulate in the environment and build up in fish tissue.
Heavy Metals (Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead): Environmental pollution contaminates fish with these metals, which can cause organ damage and neurological disorders.
Organochlorine Compounds: A group of chemicals, including PCBs and certain pesticides, that bioaccumulate in fish.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): Byproducts of organic material combustion that accumulate in fish and are known carcinogens.
Mycotoxins: Fungal toxins that can contaminate fish feed, especially in aquaculture, posing health risks to both fish and humans.
2. Red and Processed Meats Increase Cancer Risk
The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies red and processed meats as carcinogenic (2). Types like ham, salami, and beef fall into the Group 1 category, significantly increasing cancer risk—comparable to smoking or alcohol (2). In particular, processed meats raise the risk for colorectal and stomach cancers (3, 4).
3. Excessive Protein Burdens the Body
While meat and fish are often considered high-protein foods, excess animal protein can overwhelm the body. Western diets often contain over 130 grams of protein daily, but only 50–70 grams can be metabolized (5). Unused proteins cannot be stored and must be broken down, generating metabolic waste products like ammonia that strain the kidneys and acidify the body. When these waste products exceed the body’s excretion capacity, they build up in the interstitial spaces (between cells), creating a toxic, acidic environment that can impair cell function, reduce membrane potential, and hinder detoxification (6).
4. Plants Provide All Essential Amino Acids
The body needs amino acids, the building blocks of protein, not animal protein itself. Plants and grains offer complete sources of amino acids along with vital minerals, vitamins, and trace elements and are lower in toxins. Unlike animal protein, plants also support beneficial gut bacteria that aid detoxification. The idea of “complete vs. incomplete” proteins is outdated (7, 8); whole plant-based foods or any combination of them provide all essential amino acids sufficiently (9).
5. Meat Consumption Promotes Putrefactive Bacteria in the Gut
Research by Prof. Dr. Günther Enderlein and others shows that meat contains bacterial precursors that negatively impact the gut microbiota. These “endobionts” promote the growth of putrefactive bacteria in the gut, which thrive on undigested animal proteins. In turn, this reduces healthy, anti-inflammatory bacteria that support detoxification and acid regulation. In cancer patients, beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are often severely reduced (10). The breakdown of meat produces harmful substances like ammonia, putrescine, and phenol, which are toxic and associated with colorectal cancer (4).
6. Animal Iron Causes Inflammation
Meat contains heme iron, while plants contain non-heme iron. Long considered inferior, plant-based non-heme iron has been found to be the safer choice (12). Non-heme iron from plants appears to protect against modern diseases, while iron from animal sources acts as a pro-oxidant, driving chronic inflammation that contributes to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer (13, 14). Contrary to popular belief, plant-based diets do not lead to more frequent iron-deficiency anemia than other diets (11).
7. Factory Farming is Unethical and Environmentally Harmful
We believe that modern meat production is both ethically and environmentally problematic. Animal farming demands enormous resources—land, food, energy, and water—and often involves significant animal suffering. Runoff from farms and grazing lands pollutes water sources with chemicals, antibiotics, bacteria, and viruses. Animal waste can release toxins that cause health issues like inflammation and immune disorders in humans. Additionally, plant-based diets use nearly 20 times less land than meat-based diets, making them much more efficient and sustainable.
8. Meat Consumption May Alter Behavior
The stress and suffering endured by animals may affect the composition of their tissues (15). These stress-induced changes affect protein composition and nutrient levels in animal products, and research suggests a link between the consumption of animal products and increased aggression (16). Endothelial cells lining blood vessels produce nitric oxide (NO), which supports smooth blood flow. However, animal fats from meat and dairy can damage these cells, reducing NO levels. Studies indicate that lower NO levels correlate with reduced serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone, and that low serotonin levels may lead to aggression (16).
Why We Avoid Dairy at Paracelsus Clinic
In addition to eliminating animal proteins, the Paracelsus Elimination Diet excludes dairy products for the following reasons:
1. Dairy as a Primary Allergen
Cow’s milk proteins are often the first foreign proteins introduced into the bodies of many people in Western countries. From the time of weaning, dairy products are commonly consumed daily, leading to a high prevalence of dairy allergies, frequently without the awareness of those affected. Unlike lactose intolerance, which results from an enzyme deficiency, this allergy involves an immune response to milk proteins, such as casein, lactalbumin, and lactoglobulin. Often, a milk allergy (IgG4 reaction) goes undiagnosed and may place a significant burden on the immune system. Since about 80% of the immune system is located in the gastrointestinal tract, this allergic reaction can divert immune resources (17).
2. Calcium-Magnesium Imbalance
While cow’s milk is high in calcium, it lacks an adequate amount of magnesium, a mineral crucial for proper calcium absorption. The optimal ratio of calcium to magnesium is 2:1, a balance not found in dairy products. Milk is also high in phosphorus, which further inhibits calcium absorption. By contrast, plant-based foods like leafy green vegetables offer a superior calcium source due to their lower phosphorus and higher magnesium content, facilitating better calcium utilization.
3. Highly Processed Dairy Products
Despite the dairy industry’s portrayal of milk as a “natural” product, cow’s milk is actually one of the most processed foods available. Processing begins with the feed and treatments given to dairy cows, which include antibiotics, vaccines, growth hormones, and feed contaminated with aflatoxins (potent carcinogens). Additionally, milk undergoes processes like homogenization, pasteurization, and ultra-high temperature (UHT) treatment to reduce bacterial contamination, such as pus from udder infections. These infections are often induced by high milk yields and unsanitary conditions.
4. Pregnancy Hormones in Milk
To ensure a constant milk supply, dairy cows must be repeatedly impregnated, meaning that milk often comes from pregnant cows and naturally contains pregnancy hormones (18, 19). Dairy milk, designed to nourish calves for rapid growth, also contains growth hormones like IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1), which has been linked to hormone-related cancers (20, 21). Studies indicate that male dairy consumers face a 32% higher risk of prostate cancer and are more likely to develop gynecomastia (male breast enlargement) (22).
Why We Avoid Gluten at Paracelsus Clinic
At Paracelsus Clinic Lustmühle, we prioritize holistic healing that includes conscious dietary adjustments. Alongside eliminating animal proteins and dairy, we avoid gluten, particularly during treatment, to ease the burden on the gut and immune system.
Wheat, the primary source of gluten, can cause health issues for many individuals, especially those with chronic illnesses. Here’s why we recommend avoiding gluten and advocate for a gluten-free lifestyle:
Wheat, the most common source of gluten, can cause health problems for many people – especially those with chronic conditions. We explain why we avoid gluten and advocate a low-gluten lifestyle:
1. Allergenic Properties of Gluten
Gluten is one of the primary allergens, often causing unwanted immune reactions. Wheat protein is difficult to digest and can overwhelm and distract the immune system, which may be especially problematic for people with chronic conditions, potentially exacerbating their symptoms.
2. Gluten and Digestion
Gluten, along with other proteins found in wheat, is challenging for the body to digest. When not properly processed, these proteins can lead to digestive issues.
- Damage to the Intestinal Lining: Gluten can damage the intestinal lining, increasing intestinal permeability, a condition known as leaky gut syndrome. A compromised gut barrier allows harmful substances to enter the bloodstream.
- Health Implications: When toxins, partially digested food components, and foreign proteins leak into the bloodstream, the immune system may become overburdened, leading to inflammation, allergic reactions, and a variety of health issues, which can be particularly taxing for individuals with chronic diseases.
3. Mold and Toxins in Wheat
- Aflatoxins: Wheat stored in silos is vulnerable to mold, which produces aflatoxins—highly toxic compounds that can cause severe health problems, including liver damage and cancer (23).
- Glyphosate Residues: Illegally used glyphosate to expedite wheat ripening has led to over 70% of global wheat containing this herbicide residue (24). Glyphosate has neurotoxic effects and has been linked to multiple health problems, including cancer and endocrine disorders (25).
4. Increased Gluten in Modern Wheat
Modern wheat, through selective breeding, now contains 20–30% more gluten than traditional varieties, making it harder for the body to digest. This increase may contribute to the rise in gluten sensitivities and celiac disease (26).
5. Neurotoxic Effects of Gluten
Some studies suggest that gluten may act as a neurotoxin, potentially contributing to mental and neurological issues, including autism (27). This is especially concerning for people with chronic illnesses who may already have a compromised system.
Optimal Nutrition and Lifestyle Routine – Our Recommendations
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References
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