Episode 52: Transition – Phase 1 of the Autoimmune Protocol

In the early days of the Autoimmune Protocol, there was no Transition Phase—you simply jumped straight into elimination. For many people, that approach was overwhelming and unsustainable. In this episode, Mickey explains why preparation, not willpower, is the biggest predictor of success with AIP.

As part of the AIP Deep Dive series, this episode focuses on Phase 1 of the updated Autoimmune Protocol: the Transition Phase. Mickey walks through why this phase was added, what’s changed in the updated framework, and how thoughtful preparation can reduce burnout, increase confidence, and make AIP work in real life.

This episode lays the groundwork for the Elimination Phase by helping you slow down, build supportive systems, and approach AIP as a sustainable learning process—not an all-or-nothing challenge.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why the original “jump straight into elimination” approach often led to burnout
2. What the AIP Transition Phase is and why it’s now considered essential
3. How preparation—not discipline—determines long-term success
4. The five steps of the AIP Transition Phase
5. How to track baseline symptoms and why it matters
6. How to create a personal health vision that supports motivation
7. What a confidence assessment is and how it helps you plan realistically
8. How to choose the right start date for elimination
9. Common Transition Phase pitfalls and how to avoid them

Resources:

1. AIP Foundation Series – Free 5-day email course with printable food lists, meal plans, and beginner resources.
2. AIP Certified Coach Program & Practitioner Directory – Advanced training for licensed healthcare providers and a worldwide directory to find AIP-trained support.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 – Why the Transition Phase was created

02:33 – The Transition Phase explained in five steps

04:14 – Step 1: Track your baseline symptoms

07:47 – Step 2: Create your personal health vision

10:09 – Step 3: Perform a confidence assessment

14:58 – Step 4: Choose your start date

18:32 – Step 5: Take action on preparation tasks

24:04 – Common Transition Phase pitfalls

26:42 – Wrap-up & AIP Foundation Series