The goal of the Betr protocol is to reduce inflammation in the body and improve gut health.
Dr. Ferro has found the Level 1 food list accomplishes these goals through a short-term elimination phase of many different foods. This does not mean that other foods are necessarily "bad". It is only short term. Many fruits, vegetables, and proteins can be reintroduced during level 2 which starts the 4th week.
The science behind Level 1 is in the use of specific foods to help calm the body which leads to it functioning at a much higher capacity within the first 3 weeks of Level 1. Hydrating and nourishing the body with foods that are low inflammatory, have low acidity, and have very little if any associated food intolerances while keeping the body in a calm state will allow the biggest shift to happen from the inside out.
Some great examples of foods eliminated that may impact results are broccoli, cauliflower, and mushrooms. These are great veggies but for some people, they may suppress the thyroid. Turkey, pork, and talapia are good proteins, but they are usually higher in hormones which may slow the purification process.
The Level 1 food list sets a baseline and from there we build out on that foundation. It is not intended to be followed as a restrictive lifestyle forever and we very much want you to enjoy nutritional diversity in the long term.
