The basis of the Phase 1 diet is no grains, potatoes, corn (which is a grain, not a vegetable) or sugar. Giving up grains is the toughest part of the diet for most people, which leads many to look for alternatives to the grain products they miss so much. Among those grain alternatives are spelt and sprouted grains.

There are many arguments as to why these grains are healthier than conventional wheat including more vitamins, high protein content, and amino acid balance. Many of these grains contain more fiber than conventional wheat or flour. 

However, alternative grains are still grains - many of them will be kept in a silo and will be vulnerable to fungal contamination. They still contain the carbohydrates (which immediately convert to sugar during digestion) that fungi crave. Phase 1 is a strict no-grain diet, which means these purportedly safe alternatives are not ok to be consumed when following a Phase 1 diet. All of the health benefits these grains claim to have are easily derived from vegetables and the limited fruits that are specifically on the Phase 1 diet.

Many people believe that quinoa is a grain; it is actually a seed and is a relative of leafy green veggies like spinach. Quinoa is loaded with manganese and magnesium. Quinoa is great for Phase 1 dieting.

When going on the Phase 1 diet for weight loss, serious health problems, or just to be healthier, try changing instead of substituting. Go off all grains (including the alternative grains), corn, potatoes, and sugar for a month. Eat lean, grass fed meat, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and the few fruits allowed on Phase 1. You may find after a month that you feel so good that you don't miss conventional or alternative grains.