A Little Something about Health Investment

 

This squirrel sincerely thinks it's our pet. I've now become the mother of squirrels, which obviously is not as cool as being the khaleesi with dragons. Complete with running up to the door and waiting for us to come out with sweet nuts and sunflower seeds. This guy knows how to get good (and free) nutrition!

There was a time in my life when I didn't know how to effectively love and treat my body. Before going gluten-free, I was sick to the point where I stood 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighed in at only 94 pounds due to malnutrition. After diagnosis, I returned to a healthier weight until the diagnosis of my other food allergies (including soy and peanuts). The funny thing is, even now as I'm getting back up to my ideal body weight, I'm more confident in how I see my body and how I treat it. Ironically, I have living gluten-free and food allergies to thank for it. These are the things that finally taught me how to live and live well.

Getting diagnosed with everything that I have has made me realize how important it is to learn to fill your body with real healing nutrition. I can honestly say that when starting out gluten-free, I probably set myself back even further by attempting to "replace" all the foods I thought I had lost forever--trans fats, overly processed foods and all. I had no idea how to eat before my diagnosis and certainly didn't know how to eat just after either. Slowly, I learned to listen to my body and turn away from flashy advertising for convenient processed foods. Do I swear off all of it? No. But I do know how to see which ones are investments to my health in the long run and which ones are gimmicky nonsense. There are quite a few gluten-free processed food companies that really don't cater to living healthily--something that should be priority after a life changing diagnosis. The key is moderation and knowing that not everything needs a gluten-free replacement (Twinkies anyone?)

When dealing with any sort of health issue, breaking the cycle of illness and the root cause makes all the difference. This is the same principle with preventing illness and exaccerbated disease in the first place. It all begins with our forks and knives. I know that when I treat my body well, I can be a confident, healthy, and well balanced being, despite having a life long autoimmune disease and food allergies. Real confidence isn't just a mental state, it's also the ecological balance within. Make the choice to invest in your health and confidence today by starting with your plate.

How do you plan to treat your body well today?

Dow Goes Gluten-Free!

Pop the bubbly, and get ready to celebrate! (Most likely!)

I'm excited to share some great news for the gluten-free world! Dow has gone gluten-free and has come out with a new vegetable cellulose based food product that closely mimics the texture of gluten in baked goods. It's plant based and could really bring some new fresh tastes to our plates! Who needs gluten anyway?

I say way to go Dow, and way to go Dad for giving me the heads up awhile back. Since he works for Dow, he navigated me towards the website about the beta product a few months ago. I'm so glad it's finally hitting the gluten-free community soon! Check out the gluten-free goodness! (I did notice they got some of the gluten intolerance vs. celiac disease facts a little wrong as far as numbers and explanations between the two different reactions go. Celiac is about 1 in 110 these days and gluten intolerance is about 1 in 10 last I read).

What do you think? Will you be trying products containing the new "gluten" replacement? Let me know!

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Drew Brees for So Delicious

Drew Brees has been a great advocate for living fully and healthily with food allergies. It's crazy inspiring to see a Pro NFL Quarterback who won the Superbowl rock it out while living with a gluten-free diet and multiple food allergies to boot. (I've written about Drew in the past here). Drew recently worked with So Delicious Dairy-free in a video detailing the importance of getting yourself tested for food allergies, and enjoying a fuller life as a result. I can personally vouch that So Delicious Coconut milk products are all phenomenal. There are a some So Delicious Coconut yogurt products that contain small amounts of legumes (locust bean gum, carob gum) so if you are legume-free like me, you'll want to avoid those ones. The Coconut milk products are always a staple in my pantry and are a favorite of everyone in the family. Check out Drew Brees and his wife discuss living healthy lives food allergy free with So Delicious below:

Those of us with food allergies, celiac disease, or other food disorders are just as capable of greatness as anyone else, despite dietary restrictions or health issues. Thanks for the inspiration Drew!

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From a Gluten-Free Nutritional Standpoint...

 

 Snapshot of Snacks at Starbucks (contains gluten and other allergens).

Not all Gluten-free or Allergy friendly processed foods are created equal. I've found that some prepackaged gluten-free products are just as devoid of nutrition and quality ingredients as the traditional and glutenous processed junk that lines grocery store aisles in excess.

I've been meaning to sound off on this for awhile. Now I'm not saying that that all prepackaged gluten-free (or top 8 allergen free) cookies, cakes, breads, or snacks are bad. There are certainly some amazing brands out there that cater to our health and taste buds. And even the so-so brands are great in moderation. Let's face it, it's nice to indulge. But what I see so often in the gluten-free community is the feeling of wanting to replace what's been lost--sugar laden, bad fat filled, white-floury, processed crap! And filling the void until the main source of food consumed is processed, high in sugar, low in nutrients, and unnatural.

Too many food companies are now catering to this dopamine addiction in my opinion. My personal experience with being diagnosed and needing to go gluten free was a journey of needing to heal myself. What my malnourished body was crying out for after all the damage to my stomach and intestines was real solid nutrition--something that isn't always found in processed foods. When you have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, the last thing that is going to heal your villi is this kind of food.

And so you've become an expert at reading ingredient labels. Now it's time for the easy part; reading nutrition labels in combination with ingredients. Look for processed foods that include wholesome grains instead of more "white flour" like plain rice flour or potato flour. Check out whole grains, natural ingredients, and organic products now and then. Here's a few more detailed things to look for when navigating healthier (but just as tasty!) GF processed foods:

DO: (in moderation)

• Real Food Colorants (one example: beet juice colorings instead of "Red40" or other synthetic colorants)


• Healthy Gluten-free Whole grains (whole grain brown rice, wild rice, brown rice flour, almond flour (if you can tolerate nuts), coconut flour, amaranth, sorghum, quinoa, or buckwheat flour).


• Alternative Sweeteners to White Processed Sugar (some examples: Small amounts of stevia, agave, or raw local honey).


• "Good" fat content--monounsatured fats found often in olive oil, avocado, almonds, etc.


• A SHORT INGREDIENT LIST! -- A good rule to follow here is if you can't pronounce it, don't eat it. Or if it's over 5 or 6 non-organic ingredients, don't eat it.


• Organic, Whole Ingredients (I love some of the Organicville Products. The Pasta sauce is soy free, dairy free, gluten free, nut free, egg free).

[
A Hearty Wild Rice dish is a great alternative to White Rice.

DON'T: (or limit to rarely)

• Baking mixes or processed breads, snacks, etc. that mainly use "white" flour such as white rice flour or potato flour. These really don't do much for you in the nutrition department. Stick to the healthier choices listed above. In my opinion, the healthy ones taste better in baking anyway.


• High Fructose Corn Syrup, Raw Sugar, Evaporated Cane Juice and any other form of highly processed/unnatural sugar in high quantities.


• Artificial ingredients or products that use GMOs. When you're healing and living with a disease or allergies, you really want to limit your intake of these.


• Any Trans fats.

These are just some of the Dos and Don'ts that have helped me heal along the way. Try not to get into the habit of treating your disease or allergies emotionally or mentally with unhealthy foods. Instead, heal your body which will help heal your attitude and emotional damage much more easily. Of course though, the best source of food you can eat will never be processed--it will be straight from the garden or the tree! Food (fruits, veggies, nuts, and seeds) in it's natural state can never be fully replaced. You're really not giving up anything when you show your body some much needed love.

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Thank you, Dad

 

Sophie, my dad's other little girl.

In celebrating my wonderful father today on Father's day, I'd like to share the story of how I came to be diagnosed with gluten intolerance (or celiac), and how my father ultimately found my diagnosis.

Three and a half years ago, my family and I were trying desperately to figure out why my health was in shambles. I wasn't digesting correctly, was losing weight with no explanation, and had severe depression and anxiety. I felt sick all over and knew something was very wrong with my body. I visited doctors who took one look at me and told me I was simply "overworking" myself as a college student or cracked it all up to IBS and threw depression medication at me. I knew deep down that they were only treating symptoms and feared we would never find the root cause.

One weekend, I was having an especially hard time. I drove home from college and just being around my parents again was comforting, though the health problems persisted. I remember feeling so defeated as I sat cross legged on the carpet with my dad and our two puppies. He listened to everything I had to say about what I'd been going through and made me feel safe, as he always had done. He told me to stay strong, keep my faith, and that we would find what was going on.

The next morning I woke up feeling fairly better than I had been and was in good spirits. I bounced upstairs and found my dad in the kitchen, the smell of fresh brewed coffee filling the room. We talked and he made me a hearty breakfast--a delicious ham and cheese filled omelet--while he taught me about how to make sure the eggs don't stick and how to season for great flavor. After eating the omelet, I felt fantastic. For once, I felt my stomach wasn't too bloated to eat any more. My dad made me some toast since I was feeling alright.

About 10 minutes after eating the toast, I began to feel the anxiety creep over my body again as my stomach started to ache. My dad watched me transform from being happy and energetic to scared and sick all over again. We couldn't figure out what we had done wrong. Soon after, he talked with his doctor about his worries and talked about how I used to have a problem with wheat when I was a baby. The doctor had said that I would outgrow the issue, despite the rashes and irritation that plagued me. He wondered if I had never outgrown the issue, especially after the recent toast issue.

I ended up going on a gluten elimination diet for an extended time after the doctor mention that I might have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance. After a while, I was told to put gluten back in my diet to test for a reaction. I had been feeling amazing since cutting it out and was reluctant to try it again. I loaded up on a glutenous pizza and beer binge to test, which proved to be an absolute terrible idea the next day. I had a classic gluten reaction and really didn't feel like getting out of bed at all. I was diagnosed soon after and made a full recovery.

My father and mother have always done everything they could to try and find the root cause of my health issues, and I am forever grateful for their love, support and persistence with everything that I've gone through. Thank you Dad, for helping me better myself and save my health in the process. I'm happy, gluten free, and 350% better than I was before thanks to you. Thank you Mom, for going out the same day we found out the issue and helping me find all the food I could eat. You've made me the woman I am today, and there are no words I can say to express how much I love you both. I can't ask for better parents and wish I could be home for Father's day, and that I could've also been home for Mother's day. My dad is traveling today, and I'm wishing him a very safe and happy trip. I'll be thinking of him the whole time.

Have a blessed Father's Day and don't forget to say I love you.

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Gluten Free Happy Hour

 

Our homemade Pineapple Strawberry Cocktail with White Rum

For the newly diagnosed food allergic, gluten intolerant, or Celiac individual, the question I've been asked quite often is...

Okay, so you've told me what I can eat. Now what the hell can I drink?

I stick to basic and classic alcohols that aren't distilled from grains-- no fancy stuff or fake flavorings. You can easily dress up some plain rum or tequila yourself without the help of pre-made mixers and coolers (which often contain barley malt and other additives from soy). There is some controversy over whether grain distilled liquors are okay for Celiac or gluten intolerant individuals to consume. I can tell you from my experience, I have to stay away. Vodka distilled from grain has wrecked some pretty extreme havoc on me in the past and I'm not eager to do it again.

Though most vodkas are out for me, Ciroc vodka is made from grapes instead of grain. There are also some good potato vodkas out there, but a word of warning--they can be pretty strong!

My favorites/go-to's for a Gluten-free, Soy free, Nut free, Cocktail Party:

1. Bacardi Superior Rum


2. Groundswell Organic White Table Wine (or Groundswell Red)


3. Ciroc Vodka (from grapes, original frost flavor. I'm not sure on the other berry flavors).


4. Luksusowa Polish Potato Vodka 


5. Estancia Riesling (White Wine). I love the fruity flavor of a good Riesling. Don't drink Wine if you are sensitive to yeast or sulfites. I've gotten much less sensitive to yeast, which is why I include it here.


6. 365 Whole Foods Goat Cheese (contains Milk, Casein).  Cheese platters and Wine. Need I say more?


7. Neon Flexi-Straws for pretty, fun smoothie Cocktails


8. Jose Cuervo Especial Tequila


9. Fresh Flowers. Roses are always a classic.


10. Enjoy Life Crunchy Cookies (allergen free).

I don't drink too often, but when I do, I....don't drink Dos Equis. Instead I focus on what I can drink and jazz it up myself to make it special. I love blending fresh pineapple, strawberries, ice, and white rum together to make a delicious spiked tropical smoothie. Adding fresh organic fruits and herbs as garnish and fun straws just gives that extra special touch. Try a sprig of fresh basil or mint in your next homemade cocktail.

Indulge Responsibly!

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May is Celiac Disease Awareness Month!

(statistics from NFCA & CDF)

As of this past February, I have been gluten-free for 3 years. I can't put into words how dramatically my life has changed as a result of getting on the right diet to treat my reactions. My life has more clarity, I am properly digesting food and am no longer malnourished due to malabsorption of nutrients. Switching to a gluten-free diet has definitely been a blessing for me.

The bad thing about all of this is that my diagnosis took about 20 years. During that time, I was increasingly and increasingly plagued by various health issues including ADHD, nervous system disorders, forgetfulness, malabsorption, unexplained weight loss, indigestion, depression and anxiety. After about 2 weeks on the Gluten Free diet, all of my symptoms completely reversed. On an older episode of the Hold the Gluten podcast (by the brilliant Maureen Stanley), it was said that the average time for a diagnosis of Celiac Disease was 10 years. Spreading awareness will help decrease that ridiculously high diagnosis time and will help the search for a cure. This May, being Celiac Awareness month, let's spread the word like wildfire.

For more information regarding the importance of a gluten-free diet, symptoms of Celiac Disease/gluten intolerance, going gluten-free and getting a diagnosis, see a few of my previous posts: Importance of Gluten-Free, Symptoms, and Basics of Diagnosis.

Some great additional resources:

• National Foundation for Celiac Awareness


• Celiac Disease Foundation


• Celiac.com

Have you been diagnosed with Celiac Disease or Gluten Intolerance?

Share your story here!

Thriving happily without gluten, soy, peanuts, and legumes.

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Honey & Cinnamon Almond Biscuits (Gluten-free)

Our afternoon has been productive and this was the perfect way to relax. We founds ourselves having an afternoon tea-time with tasty sweet almond biscuits with cinnamon and honey. There was nothing proper and stuffy about it though, as we gobbled these tasty morsels up and dabbed some extra honey on top.

I was inspired by a recipe posted on Roost blog but I couldn't help but tweak the recipe to cater to my own taste buds--which are cinnamon junkies. Not enough to perform the spoonful of cinnamon challenge mind you, but enough to put it in a ridiculous amount of baked goods. Cinnamon makes everything just a little warmer and adds that little spark.

I used my homemade blanched almond flour for this recipe and it worked beautifully. I talk about how to make it in a previous post here, along with unblanched almond flour. For a less dense and lighter biscuit, I recommend using the blanched almond flour (no almond skins).

[caption id="attachment_874" align="aligncenter" width="468"] Biscuit drops before the oven.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_875" align="aligncenter" width="468"]
Warm and golden after the bake. Ready to devour.

Our afternoon break was perfect. Here's the recipe I used:

Honey & Cinnamon Almond Biscuits (Free of: Wheat, Gluten, Soy, Yeast, Corn, Peanuts, and Milk {casein}).

• 2 1/2 cups almond flour (blanched)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon finely ground sea salt
• 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon (I probably used more since I love cinnamon).
• a sprinkle of fresh lemon juice
• 2 soy free eggs
• 1/4 olive oil
• 1/4 raw local honey (We love Raw Michigan Honey!)

Preheat oven to about 350 degrees (will vary depending on ovens).

Combine dry ingredients together. Separately, combine the wet ingredients and stir well. Incorporate the wet  ingredients into the dry ones and mix well. I contemplated adding some vanilla extract, but decided I would try that another day. Place 8 equal spoonfuls on a baking dish or sheet that has been well greased (some prefer parchment paper, but I've never used it myself). Bake for approximately 20 minutes. I baked mine for about 18. Drizzle a little extra honey on top and serve after cooling a bit.

These babies are surprisingly filling--and low carbohydrate. Great for those who are on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet for medical reasons. Once again, thanks to Coco at Roost blog for the inspiration.

What's your favorite baked good to make gluten free or with almond flour?

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Fashionably Gluten-Free

I recently stumbled across another awesome site with cute Gluten-free apparel: The Gluten-Free Boutique! All of the items below are from their products listed through their Cafepress.com site. Check out the Gluten-Free Boutique here. Bumper stickers, mugs, and cute handy totes are available as well as tees, tanks, and hoodies.

What do you think of GF fashion? Would you wear it? Yea or Nay?

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Unleashing Inner Strength

Looking back on how far I've come since this summer when I was in and out the emergency room every few days, I feel a renewed sense of life. I remember how much adversity I've faced head on and come through. I'm reminded that we as humans are survivors by nature, and it's truly flooring what the human spirit is capable of.

Today I just want to post a few things that really inspire me to embrace my inner strength. No food allergies, celiac disease, tumors, or seemingly stressful jobs have power over the creation of my own happiness and full appreciation for life. This world is full of unique blooms and the brightest of rays. Open your eyes and bask in the richness of life.

 

Taken on a road trip with my sister in the Washington state peninsula.

Taken on a relaxing morning filled with the warm scent of cinnamon.


There's always time for being young and silly at heart. I find it vital to my existence.

Spontaneous brunches. My favorite coaster is shown here.

Crazy, fun, wild, love!

You are always stronger than you think.

What things do you deem important in your life?

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Peppered Breakfast Bake

A fresh way to start a sunny Sunday.

 

 A late breakfast, early lunch that makes for great energy all day.

Usually my attempts at frittata turn into something better--a scrambled breakfast bake! My refusal to use teflon frying pans (the non-stick that lets off toxins if it gets heated too much) results in the frittata breaking apart. I don't mind though, as I then get to add all my favorite fresh ingredients and have control over how long I cook them. I like to keep things fresh and not cook out too many of the nutrients. The exception is the spinach, which I usually add first since more nutrients are absorbed when it is slightly sauteed.

Peppered Breakfast Bake

{{Soy free, Gluten free, Legume free, Casein free, Nut free}}

• 4-5 eggs
• 1 cup Spinach
• 1 cup Kale (the greens look like a lot at first, but they cook down to a smaller amount).
• 1/2 medium sized onion, roughly chopped or diced.
• 1 Poblano pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup diced tomato
• 2 sprigs fresh dill, minced
• 3 sprigs fresh parsley roughly chopped.
• Salt, Pepper, Dried Thyme, and a Dash of Cayenne.

Saute onions, poblano pepper, and garlic in a pan with olive oil (or coconut oil) over medium heat. Add the spinach after a few minutes, and the kale just afterwards. When the greens begin to wilt, add the tomato and the 4 or 5 whisked soy free eggs. Mix around in the pan just as you would to scramble the eggs, but making sure the veggies and greens are incorporated. Add the salt, pepper and cayenne pepper. Take the pan off the heat and add the fresh herbs.

 

What's your power breakfast?

Wishing a sunny Sunday to all.

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Beauty Bag

My picks for the best soy and gluten free beauty products and body care. All of the following have been stated as soy and gluten free either on the website, package, or by my personal inquiries.

1. RMS Beauty Raw Coconut Cream


2. RMS Beauty "Un-cover up". I use shade 22 usually, but sometimes 33 depending on my skin tone.


3. RMS Beauty Living Luminizer--A staple for natural, simple beauty.


4. Ultrapure Cosmetics Light Reflecting Blush--I prefer Simmering Plum, but there are 6 shades to choose from.


5. Ultrapure Cosmetics Synful Lips Lipstick in Smooch. There are 10 shades to choose from.


6. Ultrapure Cosmetics Omega Brilliance Lip Gloss in Melon Sorbet--SF, GF, Vegan, dye free. Available in 10 shades.


7. RMS Beauty Lip Shine in Moment.


8. Ultrapure Cosmetics Perfectly Natural Eyeliners--Available in 8 shades.


9. Kiss Me Costmetics Mineral Eyeliner--SF, GF, Vegan. Available on Etsy.


10. RMS Beauty Cream Eyeshadow in Magnetic.


11. RMS Beauty Cream Eyeshadow in Spark.


12. Refreshingly Free Nail Polish--Around 35 shades!


13. Piggy Paint Nail Polish in Somtimes Sweet--Stated gluten, soy, and nut free in the FAQ.


14. Now Foods Virgin Coconut Oil--I use it all over my skin. It's the best moisturizer I've found so far.


15. RMS Beauty Lip and Skin Balm


16. CocoCare 100% Cocoa butter "Yellow Stick"--A great moisturizer and smells so yummy. Be careful with the non-100% versions as I haven't confirmed their soy free status.

It's safe to say my go-to soy free, gluten free products are mainly RMS Beauty.

It really takes the cake, so check out the actual website here: RMS Beauty

Ultrapure Cosmetics is truly amazing too, sending much love and thanks!

What are your favorite allergy friendly beauty picks? Leave me a comment below, and shine on!

Sweet Tooth

From time to time, it's nice to indulge--in moderation of course. Most of these sweet allergen free treats can be found in my pantry on a rotating basis. Many of them are actually lower in sugar or organic sweeteners than normal sweets found in the grocery store. So you can satisfy that occasional craving while not setting your health back. Agave nectar, stevia, and organic fruit juices are some of the sweeteners that can be found in some of my favorite yums...I support a health conscious, and very moderate sweet tooth. The following items are gluten, soy, wheat, peanut, fish, shellfish, egg, and dairy free.

1. Navitas Naturals Cacao powder--I add this to my Brown Rice protein shakes for a healthy boost of flavor with no added sugar. Just pure antioxidants.
2. Navitas Naturals Raw Cacao Nibs--A strong source of healthy antioxidants. Add them to daily shakes, trail mixes flax cereals, gluten free oatmeal, and more. Read about the benefits of Cacao here, at the bottom of the page.
3. Yummy Earth Organic Gummy Bears--All organic and natural gummies. NO artificial colors or anything! Some are even colored with beet juice--but trust me, they taste better than the super sugar laden versions you'd usually find in the candy aisle. Made in an allergen free facility.
4. Enjoy life Crunchy Double Chocolate Cookies--Delectable! I compared the sugar content to Chips Ahoy (a popular "regular" allergy laden standard cookie brand) and found it to be about 2 times less sugar per serving size.
5. Glee Gum, Bubblegum Flavor--I am so happy to finally find allergen free chewing gum! About to feel like a 5th grader again in 5..4...3..2...1...
6. Surf Sweets Jelly Beans--Made in a facility free of the top 8 allergens.
7. Luna and Larry's Coconut Bliss Ice Cream in Dark Chocolate--They have so many awesome flavors to choose from, and what I especially love is that they use Agave nectar instead of processed sugar. They also refrain from using legumes like Locust bean gum and Carob bean gum (which I react to having soy and legume allergies). I LOVE this brand.
8. and 9. VerMints, in Peppermint, Chai, and many other flavors--Free of the top 8 allergens, and made in a dedicated allergen free facility.

10.  Surf Sweets Gummy Fruity Hearts--Such a cute gift for your allergen free sweetie. No hints here at all.
11. Navitas Naturals Organic Goji Berries--Just raw goji berries and nothing else. A naturally sweet and healthy treat.
12. Enjoy Life Snickdoodle Cookies--Soft baked, chewy, cinnaminny goodness! My personal favorite of the moment.

Remember to indulge responsibly and moderately with all sweet treats.

Wishing you a naturally sweet and magical weekend.

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In my Kitchen

Here are some of my favorite soy free, gluten free, legume free go-to items in my pantry and fridge as of late. I love to keep all these on hand for quick easy meals or snacks. These made the top 9....

1. So Delicious Vanilla Coconut Milk (No Sugar Added)


2. Enjoy Life Chewy Bars, Sunbutter Crunch --A great grab and go snack.


3. Fresh or Dried (Organic) Dill -- one of my favorite herbs that I add to nearly everything.


4. Simply Organic Cayenne Pepper -- I use it to add a kick to my dishes, and as a digestion aid. Almost every morning, I start my day with a warm glass of water with cayenne pepper. Taken 15 minutes before eating, nothing helps boost and clean your system better in my opinion.


5. Ancient Harvest Quinoa -- Made in a dedicated gluten and soy free facility (verified by personal email).


6. Buckwheat -- I buy mine from Meijer, which receives it straight from Poland. I adore Kasha (buckwheat porridge)!


7. 365 Whole Foods Apple Cider Vinegar--There was no link available on the site, but you can buy it at any Whole Foods Market. I take about 1-2 tablespoons daily with a glass of water. It's cheaper than Bragg's brand, and it has no cross contamination with soy that I know of. I reacted strongly to Bragg's apple cider vinegar since it is made on the same line as their soy heavy "Liquid Aminos". I avoid Bragg's for this reason.


8. Olivio Coconut Spread --Soy Free, Gluten Free, Dairy Free. So good! It's great for you too, since the main ingredient is healthy coconut oil. I love putting it on my tinkyada pasta and my quinoa dishes.


9. Tinkyada Organic Brown Rice Pasta -- My favorite gluten free pasta by far. They make 18 different types and shapes of whole grain brown rice pasta, including a fun shaped variety called "Little Dreams" which would be definitely make a cute meal for food allergic youngsters.

What are your favorite go-to items in your pantry?

Gluten-Free Cocktail Party

While enjoying my favorite blog reads this morning, I stumbled upon an awesome post from Apartment 34 blogger Erin Hiemstra (actually, always awesome blog posts). Here's a video produced by Erin featuring a cocktail party with an entirely gluten-free menu. Gluten-free doesn't mean boring! Check out the video below--fun, healthy, and beautiful--With Style and Grace.

[vimeo http://vimeo.com/35318478]

What are your food allergy friendly party ideas?

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Series: Going Gluten-free Part 2-- Basics of Diagnosis

 

Find beauty in the little things. Diagnosis can be a bit stressful, so remember to find time to relax , breathe. and heal.

The post is the 2nd in my Going Gluten-free Series. See post 1 on Symptoms before reading this post for important prior information regarding recognition of Celiac/Gluten Intolerance symptoms.

Once you've determined if you should see a health practitioner regarding Celiac Disease or gluten intolerance, the next step is getting a clear diagnosis. This is easier said than done, but the medical community is slowly getting better about it. I had gone through 3 different doctors who were happy to just treat "symptoms" rather than search for the root cause of my health issues. One doctor insisted I had IBS, while two other ones just blamed "overworking myself during college" and anxiety/depression. None of these stood on their own, as I found out they all stemmed from my inability to process gluten.

The most important thing to remember when contemplating Celiac blood or biopsy testing is to continue eating gluten until after the testing is complete. If you remove gluten from the diet before testing, your result could be a false negative. It's been noted that removing gluten from the diet doesn't seem to affect the outcome of celiac gene testing, which helps to determine if you or your children are at risk of developing Celiac at any age. A person can carry Celiac genes, but there is a chance that they may never trigger the gene active. Read more about Celiac genes and testing here.

The following are different methods of testing for Celiac Disease, or Gluten Intolerance.

I personally underwent an elimination diet after discussing with my doctor the best course of action. After only one week, I was feeling like myself again and my symptoms did a complete turn around. They had all but disappeared after the 2 week mark, and I was able to fly across the country by myself.  Two weeks prior, I had been wondering if I'd ever be able to function normally in society ever again. Nutrition really is something.

Please note I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice. Consult with your doctor or health practitioner to determine what is best for you. Better yet, listen to your body while talking with professionals.

Now that the hard part of finding a diagnosis is through, the best thing to remember is that healing takes time. You may feel better right away, but it can take as much as a year for others with extreme cases or those who have been misdiagnosed for many years. Nourish your body, detox the stress from your mind, and know that all is uphill from here.

Resources:

Celiac Disease Genetics

Ten Facts about Celiac Disease Genetic Testing

Interpretation of Celiac Disease Blood Test Results

Celiac Disease (from NDDIC).

 

Angry gluten makes your tummy angry. There's nothing to miss here.

What's your story? Have you undergone any of the classic Celiac or Gluten Intolerance testing?

Spice it Up

It's no secret that restricted diets can get a little repetitive. Switching things up with big, bold flavors can really make a big difference in the food that you can eat. Here are my favorite spices for awesome flavors and health benefits.

1. Rosemary -- It has such an earthy flavor that I love. Try sprinkling it on salmon with a squeeze of lemon before cooking it. It's a good source of Vitamin E, boosts the immune system, improves circulation, has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-oxidant properties. Read more about the health benefits of rosemary here.


2. Fresh Dill -- I add dill to everything these days, including salads, fish, buckwheat, and quinoa. My boyfriend, being from Belarus, loves adding dill to baked potatoes, mashed potatoes...well pretty much everything potato. Read about dill's health benefits here.


3. Fresh Parsley -- Parsley is one of the best things you can eat. Not only is it delicious to add to homemade pasta sauce and tons of other dishes, it's super high in Vitamin C, Vitamin K and anti-oxidants.


4. Cinnamon -- One of my favorites! I add it to my pancakes, butternut squash soup, and make cinnamon tea. It can help lower bad cholesterol, has anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, can help improve memory, and can also help to regulate blood glucose levels.


5. Sage and Thyme -- I use both on veggies, meat, fish, and pasta..okay I use it to give more flavor to pretty much anything. They also have great anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.


6. Fresh Mint -- I drink fresh mint tea every few days, but I especially find it best after I've had an accidental allergic reaction or gluten issue. It is amazing for helping settle and upset stomach.


7. Cayenne Pepper -- Very good anti-inflammatory properties, good for detoxing the body, and even fights cancer. Read more about it's amazing health benefits here.


8. Crushed Red Pepper -- Good source of Vitamins A, B, and C among other things. I love spicy, flavorful food, and crushed red pepper always helps to add a nice kick to my dishes.

What are your favorite herbs and spices, or ways to jazz up your food?

The Importance of Diagnosis: Going Gluten-free

[caption id="attachment_539" align="aligncenter" width="421"] The road to health: Gluten-free (Photo credit Dreamstime.com Free)[/caption]

Recently, I've been asked by a few readers to do a series of posts outlining a gluten free guide/survival crash course for beginners. In the next few posts, I'll be covering the following. If you're wondering about going gluten-free, the main thing to remember is:

It is not hard!---No matter what anyone else says! Going Gluten-free is a breeze.

The next posts will be broken down into 3 main posts including:

1. Symptoms: This is crucial, as they will lead to a correct (and much needed) diagnosis of Celiac Disease or Gluten intolerance.


2. Diagnosis: How to talk with your health care professional regarding classic Celiac Testing, and also testing for gluten intolerance--something many patients are left to do on their own with no real guidance. Here's where the research I had to do myself came in super useful. Food diaries and elimination diets are really very helpful.


3. Treatment: Implementing, and sticking to a Gluten-free Diet is key. Focus on what you can eat instead of what you can't. Going Gluten-free is surprisingly easy, and most people I've diagnosed even before the doctor's did said they were astounded at the huge selection of GF products available these days. They're right! It's such a positive thing!


4. Vital Importance: I'll be outlining how undiagnosed Celiac or Gluten Intolerance can lead to terrible diseases, mental disorders ranging from ADHD to schizophrenia, and even Multiple Sclerosis. I went 20 years without a diagnosis and am lucky I didn't have much irreversible damage, save my nervous system.


5. Healing: Having a diagnosis of Celiac Disease or Gluten Intolerance IS life changing in more ways than just a diet. It changes the way you approach life as a whole. Focusing on filling your body with good nutrition, calming practices (meditation or yoga), and doing things you enjoy all help one to find balance again after wondering if the world is upside-down or not. Remember, you are always stronger than you think. You will thank yourself later for the changes you make today.

Stay tuned! Post one of three will be posted tomorrow. If you'd like some information about going gluten free sooner, please feel free to email me at sprinklesandallergies@gmail.com  I've been gluten free for three years now and have had no choice but to become a complete expert on the subject. Thanks again for asking for the post topic. Supporting each other makes the whole thing that much easier.

[caption id="attachment_540" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Being gluten-free does not rule my life. I am a stronger person because of it. I still dream big. Nothing holds me down, especially not a little gluten ;)[/caption]

Multiple Sclerosis and Food allergies: A speculation

- The following is a speculation based on my own personal experiences and available research. It should not be regarded as any type of medical advice. -

 

(Photo Credit: Dreamstime.com Free)

Two and a half years ago, I was exhibiting many typical signs of MS. I lost feeling in my legs randomly which sometimes caused falling, experienced numbness, had prickling sensations in most limbs, felt it was hard to move my right arm, quick electric shock type sensations when moving certain ways or when at rest, and at times had blurred vision and dizziness (Along with other symptoms of gluten intolerance such as attention deficit, upset stomach, headaches, depression and anxiety to name a few off the list). After implementing a gluten free diet, all of my symptoms and failing health disappeared within weeks.

Recently, I was diagnosed with a severe allergic reaction to soy. Before this diagnosis, I was considering getting screened for MS. After cutting soy out of my diet and personal care products, all my MS-like symptoms are gone. I find it curious and am speculating on the possible misdiagnosis of gluten ataxia, celiac disease, and food allergies as Multiple Sclerosis.

First off though, please do not take clinical diagnosis of MS lightly. It is a serious disease that is said to have no cure, though some studies say that a gluten free or grainless diet can be helpful in reducing the severity of symptoms. If someone has been correctly diagnosed with MS, it may be giving a false hope if I would say that it could be reversed from implementing this diet change, which is not what I am doing and is not my goal here.

My goal is to draw attention to a couple key points.

• Misdiagnosis of gluten ataxia, gluten sensitivity, or Celiac disease as MS may be possible. Working with your doctor to get a definitive diagnosis is key.

• There have been accounts for and against gluten playing a part in the progression of MS and it's best to read a variety of articles for information. What is true for one person may not necessarily hold true for another.

Forums such as Celiac.com offer a place to discuss symptoms and personal experiences regarding gluten, celiac disease, other food allergies, autoimmune diseases, and diseases linked to diet. Check out a forum discussing MS and gluten here and here. It's helpful to read all the entries to the bottom of the page to see patterns.

As one of those people whose symptoms did a 180 degree turnaround after addressing my food allergies, I highly recommend talking with your doctor regarding gluten, food allergies, and any MS-like symptoms.

What do you think? Any personal stories of MS diagnosis and food allergies, or overcoming a misdiagnosis?

Don't be discouraged.  It's often the last key in the bunch that opens the lock." ~Author Unknown