Gluten-Free Challenge Archives - Strength and Sunshine

Power Monday #47 The Gluten-Free Community

June 2, 2014 by Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine 37 Comments

Really I can not belive it is June! June is the greatest month in my opinion. My birthday, graduation, my blogerversary, summer, warm sunny weather, the time to start over new and fresh. When I think of June, I just think of beautiful things. Bright orange and yellow, sunshine, happiness. But before I start on this month of joy, I wanted to do a final post to close out Celiac Awareness Month.

The Celiac and Gluten-Free community is one strong unbreakable force. We support, educate, laugh, create delicious food, and make our situation as positive as possible. We simply are Gluten-Free Warriors. Before my Celiac Disease, I would only sporadically go on food blogs to feed my cooking love and hobby. Once i went gluten-free though, my blog reading really took off. The first gluten-free blogger I ever read was the Gluten-Free Girl and The Chef. Shauna’s writing is absolutely breath taking and her story is definitely an inspiration for anyone on a gluten-free journey. The first homemade gluten-free recipe I made stemmed from her Gluten-Free Stuffing. I took her beautiful inspiration and created a dish that has become an annual must during the holiday season for my family and I. Ever since reading her blog, I have attributed my love for cooking and food blogs to her the most. Who wouldn’t want to join in on the fun after reading her posts?! Thank you Shauna for being my Gluten-Free Warrior!

So why not celebrate some of the other warriors in the gluten-free community? Here are some of my favorite gluten-free bloggers and friends. They all have contributed their knowledge, experience, humor, recipes, love, and support to this community and I love them for it! Get ready for a huge list of just some of my favorites…mind you this is only some!

Celiac and The Beast

Need to know if you should try that new gluten-free product or spend your money elsewhere? Well Erica (diagnosed with Celiac in 2009) has you covered with her plethora of reviews and product suggestions. Not to mention all of her amazing giveaways! You know I am all about giveaways 😉

Gluten Dude

One of the few male bloggers out there, but he has a lot to say. Need a daily dose of some gluten-free humor? Or have a crazy questions you want answers? Hop on over to Mr. Dude’s blog and he will happily fulfill those needs!

Queen of Quinoa

Alyssa states is perfectly when she said, “The light, fluffy gift from the gluten-free gods.” Quinoa is an essential in my diet and (and should be for anyone gluten-free!). Simply beautiful delicious recipes and always gluten-free. You will leave her blog hungry and full of inspiration!

Cotter Crunch

Lindsay, the gluten-free, pro-triathlete wife breaks down the myth that a gluten-free diet can’t fuel and hardcore athletic life. Creating nourishing power packed recipes to fuel her and her husbands crazy active lives, she sets a positive and inspiring vibe everyday on her beautiful heartwarming blog!

Clean Eating Chelsey

I love this girl. After a few months hiatus form blogging to take care of her new baby girls, she is back and I am so happy! This women is the genius behind those English muffins I started making. Going gluten-free healed her GI issues and allowed her to live her life again. A gluten intolerance can be just as debilitating as Celiac, but she does not let that stop her!

Inspired RD

Alysa, a dietitian, Celiac, and huge advocate will make you feel loved and see the joy in life. Her beautiful writings about her family, faith, and having Celiac always put a smile on my face.

Made to Glow

Healing your body and making yourself glow is totally possible with food restrictions. Alexandra makes it easy for you to live a happy life, nourished, and at ease with her glowing attitude, blog, and recipes 🙂

Oh She Glows

Angela is one amazing blogger. Not only is she gluten-free, but she is also vegan. Her recipes and photography are simply breath taking. She proves that you can make some pretty incredible food even with every restriction in the book. There is nothing holding this lovely women back!

Fork and Beans

Talk about fun recipes! Plus thier vegan too. Everything from Baked Shiitake “Shrimp” to the most delicious looking bagels! If you need some recipe inspiration, Cara’s blog is that go-to resource!

Healthful Pursuit

Healing your body through food. Leanne knows how to love and take care of the body even with multiple food allergies. Plus you should check out her latest e-book, The Vibrant Life, which I reviewed here!

The Spunky Coconut

Keeping her family happy and healthy, Kelly creates delicious gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo recipes! She doesn’t want her family to feel deprived even through their Celiac, intolerences, ADD, and autism. (There is no way you could feel deprived in her household!)

The Edible Perspective

Ashley…o Ashley. Her blog is so beautiful! Food has never looked so good. Her photography is outstanding! Who ever said gluten-free couldn’t be pretty, huh? 😉

Tasty Yummies

Veggies lover and gluten-free(er), Beth creates beautiful seasonal whole food recipes that are to die for! Not only is she a fellow gluten-free blogger, but she is also a yogi 😉 That is always a big plus in my book. This girl knows her stuff!

Bread & Bonnet

Meg had to transition to a gluten-free life after he adorable son was born with a severe gluten-intolerance. Also a vegetarian for 8 years, Meg keeps her family healthy and on the path to recovery with her passion for cooking!

Gluten-Free Vegan Love

If you need a great baking recipe that is both gluten-free and vegan…Audrey is your girl! Her blog is full of delicious sweet recipes as well as tons of Celiac tips and advice!

Simply Gluten Free

Reinventing old favorites once she found out she was gluten-intolerant, Carol has become a huge name in the gluten-free community (she is also the founder of Simply Gluten Free magazine). Makes simple healthy dishes that everyone will love and adore. Sharing, teaching, and inspiring every step of the way.

Silvana’s Kitchen

Mom and author, Silvana creates lovely conversation and great family moments all while being gluten-free. There is more behind food than just what you see. There is always a story or memory to share and create along the way!

Brittany Angell

Brittany kicked her autoimmune disorder and food intolerences in the face and has become a huge advocate for food allergen awareness. She believes you should enjoy good for you food and keep your body safe form the allergens that harm some of us.

Gluten Free on a Shoestring

Being gluten-free can get very expensive if you don’t do it right. So Nicole is on a mission to show the world that being gluten-free can be affordable for the whole family without sacrificing health or flavor!

Southern In-Law

Food allergies and Celiac never get this girl down. Kristy always strives to find the best and is always upbeat about her allergies and intolerences. She always has the greatest tips for living a happy normal life in a world where we have to be vigilant and aware!

Lexie’s Kitchen

After Lexie’s son was born with a host of digestive issues, she had to find out what was wrong. By creating an allergy-friendly home, she healed her son and continues to create the most amazing gluten-free and allergy-friendly recipes to see her son thrive and help others along the way!

Gluten-Free Goddess

I think we have all heard of Karina before. If you haven’t you are missing out on one amazing blogger, recipe creator, artist, and women. If you need a show-stopper recipe to impress, head on over to the goddess. You will find the most decadent and beautiful dishes!

Tessa The Domestic Diva

Tessa cooks without all the major allergens to accommodate everyone in her beautiful family. She is also the amazing host of Allergy-Free Wednesdays, one of my favorite link-ups!

Ricki Heller

Vegan, candida-free, gluten-free, sugar-free. This women has you covered. I still remember when her blog was called “Diet, Dessert, Dogs”! She is one outstanding cook, cookbook author, and holistic nutritionists!

Gluten Free School

Jennifer brings you all you need to know and more. She has created a beautiful community or learning and empowering those with gluten intolerance and Celiac. Podcasts, reviews, educational posts, ideas, recipes, simply everything you need, this girl has!

The Gluten-Free Homemaker

Weekly meal plans and recipes galore! Linda as diagnosed with Celiac in 2000, so she is a veteran in the community and really knows her stuff. She is also the lovely host of Gluten-Free Wednesdays!

Vegetarian Mamma

Vegetarian and gluten-free blogger, Cindy always has something fun going on in her blog! You will find reviews and giveaway galore as well as the famous Gluten-Free Fridays recipe link-up!

Against All Grain

Combating autoimmune disease with going grain, gluten, dairy, and refined sugar free. Danielle creates beautiful recipes with stunning photography. Also send your love and thoughts to her and her family right now.

Sarah Bakes Gluten Free Treats

After her husband was diagnosed with Celiac, she has to change her love of baking over to being completely G-Free. And what an incredible job she has done! Sarah makes gluten-free baking not so scary and easy for anyone and every to try!

I should probably stop now as I bet you just opened up a bunch of tabs in your browser and I don’t want your computer to freeze up! (This happens to me all the time 😉 Haha). There are about 50 dozen more bloggers I could talk about, but this post is already way to filled! I have my bookmark folder of gluten-free bloggers that was started 5 years ago and has been expanding ever since. You could imagine just how many are in there 😉 The great thing is, I find more and more everyday and I am always learning from them and getting the greatest inspiration!

Thank you all for being Gluten-Free Warriors with me!

Before I go, I need to thank two participants of the #GFC14 (Gluten-Free Challenge). Lisa and Paige did a wonderful job joining in and wrote some fabulous recaps of their experiences! Go ahead and check them out and see just how they did! You may be surprised by what they learned.

So tell me:

+ Have any favorite gluten-free bloggers to share? Are you a gluten-free blogger? I feel like I have been on every gluten-free blog or heard of every gluten-free blogger there is. Let’s see if you can rain on my parade 😉

+ Do you remember the first blog you ever went on?

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Power Monday #46 Why I’m Grateful For My Celiac Disease

May 26, 2014 by Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine 29 Comments

Happy Memorial Day! And Happy Power Monday! I hope you have some fun in the sun planned for today 🙂 Get out there and enjoy yourself with your loved ones and the glorious welcoming of summer. Remember to pause and reflect on those who have served us to make this country great, safe, and strong! Today also marks the end of the 2014 Gluten-Free Challenge. I have really loved devoting these past few weeks to all things gluten-free and celiac. I hope you learned something and have a new appreciation for this disease and why being gluten-free is no joke for some people. And even though the challenge is over for you, the challenge is never over for those of us with Celiac. We must live everyday with vigilant eyes and compassion for out bodies. We must continue to explain, educate, and raise awareness for out disease which has no cure but to remain on a strict gluten-free diet for life.

However, that does not mean I hate having to be gluten-free or wish that I could eat anything with out a care as to what it contains, where it came from, how it was prepared, or if someone served it with flour on the hands. (Well it might be nice to not have to worry about that!) But I don’t pity my disease.

I’ve said it before, and I will say it again, I am grateful for my Celiac Disease. Why? Well take this scenario that was a reality for me 5 years ago. I had my friend over at my house and we picked up pizza to eat for lunch. After eating my two slices I was okay…for a few minutes. We started watching a movie and just hang out. About 20 minutes later I thought I was going to die. Imagine a 13-year-old girl, with her friend next to her, suddenly over come with the worst stomach and intestinal pain and cramps ever. Should I run to the bathroom or try to sit there and act like nothing is wrong. Well the later option was not an option. I had to do the “O, I’ll be right back” scenario and quickly book-it to the bathroom. But this didn’t just end there. My friend wasn’t due to leave for a few more hours, what the hell was I supposed to do. I had to find my mom and tell her I needed an out. So we made up a lie saying we needed to be somewhere in an hour and her mom would have to pick her up soon. In the meantime, I had to keep running to the bathroom (“I had just drank too much water”). Well after that horror was over and she left, my body was so done, so exhausted, and so sore and in pain. I remember just remember heading just up to my bad and sleeping for the rest of the day and night.

Celiac does not just affect the body, it affects your life too. That was the summer I realized I had a huge problem and I was only able to stomach Rice Chex and crunchy iceberg lettuce. I also starting being able to make connections back to other similar episodes throughout my life where I would be overcome with the worst stomach “hell”, but not knowing why.

I am grateful for Celiac Disease because I no longer eat something and 20 minutes later be stuck in the bathroom the rest of the day, doubled over in cramps and pain. I no longer become so exhausted that my body just shuts down and needs to sleep off its own attack. I know now what I can eat and what serves my body well. What will keep it healthy and pain-free. I don’t have to worry about being in the car coming home from a dinner at my grandparents on Easter, quietly keeping to myself but inside feeling like my intestines were being ripped out. I don’t have to tell my dad to take the next exit so I can run into a store and find a bathroom.

I know what my body can handle. I know what my allergies/intolerences are. I know how to keep safe, thus I am able to live. And I am able to learn. Again, I have said this many times, but the about of information I have learned about food and cooking since my diagnosis is amazing. Quinoa, millet, kasha were something foreign to me, but now is just an everyday staple. I am so surprised when someone has never had it or has no idea what it is. Gluten-free pancakes? I didn’t even know how to make normal pancakes. But look at me now, making pancakes every weekend, completely gluten-free…and vegan to boot!

Bring gluten-free has made me a health-conscious eater as well. It has introduced me to veganism and has allowed me to discover my other allergy to soy. Who needs “real” pizza (mind you, my stomach still does flip-flops when I go in to a pizzeria or see someone eating a slice), when you can make glorious gluten-free tortilla pizza’s with real whole food ingredients. A health-pie if you will.

Having Celiac has brought on major cooking experimentation and fun times int he kitchen. my first homemade gluten-free dish was Thanksgiving stuffing. I went gluten-free November right before the holiday season. But did I let that stop me from enjoying life? Hell no! I have never let it stop me. I have embraced it and have made it an integral part of who I am. But I don’t let it define or limit me negatively. I wear my gluten-free hot loud and proud. I don’t let my disease rule me, I rule this disease and make it an inspiration, an ability, a way to honor, life, and enjoy my life.

So Celiac Disease, I am grateful for you. I am grateful for what you taught me and what you have allowed me to do. You have made me a Gluten-Free Warrior!

And now for the link-up! I want to read your week-long gluten-free experience, your thoughts, struggles, recipes, ideas, everything! Use the link up here, leave comments, or email me your story! I will feature these next week and also announce the random winner of the gluten-free goodie box I will put together! Until then, continue to raise Celiac awareness for the month of May and love and support those who have it! Be a Gluten-Free Warrior! (Click the Inlinkz button below to link-up!)

So tell me:

+ If you have Celiac Disease or some other food allergy, are you grateful? Why? What have you learned?

+ When you are faced with adversity, do you embrace it or do you let it embrace you?

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Friday Finisher 5/23/14

May 23, 2014 by Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine 21 Comments

Happy Friday! Another week down, another week closer to graduation! I can taste it, but it is still so far away. This week seemed super long and I think the next 3 weeks will drag too. At least we have a long weekend this week right 😉 Eh, I feel like when I have days off or half days in school, the week seems longer (like this week), it is nice on that day, but overall, I’m not sure how I feel about it.

I don’t have anything special planned for this weekend. Put I do want to do some major cooking of new recipes I have forming in my head. On involves the grill, one involves the blender, and one involves breakfast (what’s new!). Besides that, I still need to memorize those damn Latin lines to recite next week. I have the first 5ish but that leaves 6 more… I also think I may just have to stop at the library this weekend and pick up a book. I haven’t read anything on my Goodreads list in months and I am craving a book! I think I can find the time now to fit in some good ole’ reading…I need it! My mom’s birthday is on Wednesday, so I should plan some sort of dessert to make her this time.

And I have loved reading some of you updates and instagrams of the Gluten-Free Challenge! You have two days left! Go out with a bang and try a new dish or ingredient this weekend! Never had millet? I’ve got you covered. How about some classic zucchini buckwheat pancakes or cheezy quinoa? Remember to get your recap posts reading for the link-up this coming Monday! I can’t wait to read them. I will leave the link-up open for a few days as I know some of you will be busy with Memorial Day celebrations, so no worries!

No Finish The Sentence this week :/ They are off for Memorial Day.

SS Posts from the week:

Monday: Power Monday #45 8 Steps To Success When Eating Out Gluten-Free

Tuesday: Gluten-Free Myths…Debunked!

Wednesday: Robust Smokey Grilled Chicken + Fresh Spring Millet Salad With Watercress & Lemon

Thursday: Recipe Redux #7 Chocolate Matcha Pancakes

Blog Posts and Links I loved this week:

Life, Mind, Body, Spirit:

+ First, Lasts, & In-Betweens

Wow, beautiful. Something I really need to think about this Summer.

+ The One-Sentence Secret To Overcoming Your Body Image Issues

It’s time to stop focusing so much on your physical appearance.

+ Motivation Mondays: Courage

I want the courage to start running. The DC pavement is just waiting for me!

+ Would I Do It All Over Again Or Skip The Hard Part

From the hard stuff we learn and grow and truly start to find ourselves.

+ A Letter To My 15 Year Old Self

Beautifully written. I love how our perspectives change when we look back at former years.

+ Get Out Of The Comparison Trap

Be who you naturally are!

+ Ask.

It is okay to ask for help!

+ Thoughts On Self-Criticism

Great read! It can be difficult to accept that we are worthy enough and we deserve health and happiness.

+ Focus. Breathe. Keep It Going. Push Through.

Beautiful words to live by!

+ {Practical} Life Tips

I think i struggle the most with #3. I know what I want, but I need to just push myself to make that initial step and let go!

Fitness:

+ Accepting Your Own Practice

Have you been struggling with your practice?

+ Exercising After An Eating Disorder – How To Trust Yourself

Interesting and powerful read.

+ Why You Should Foam Roll (And A Video To Show You How)

I haven’t broke out my roller in months! I should get on that…

+ Best Kettlebell Ab Exercises & The 5 Core Rules Of Core Workouts

My favorite part of the body to work! I love core with a passion!

+ 26 Things I Learned From Running 26(.2) Miles

When training for something so big and for so long, you will learn a lot along the way!

+ All About Sweat

Sweat is not an indicator of a better workout. I don’t really sweat much, even if I get in the most intense workout.

+ It’s Not Okay To Grab Me: Safety Tips For Female Runners

Wow, this is scary. As women, we really need to stay alert and vigilant. Don’t let anything go un-reported!

+ How To Use A Gymboss Interval Timer

Well, now I know how t use it…just need to get me one 😉

+ Body Recomposition: Losing Fat, Gaining Muscle

Understanding muscle gain.

+ An Open Letter To My Yoga Teacher

I know that I have learned so much through my “online” teachers. They give me the inspiration and motivation to further my practice everyday.

Food:

+ Top 10 Foods To Reduce Stress

Did any of your favorites make the list? I know a lot of mine did! Although they don’t seem to help my stress…haha!

+ What Is A GMO? Genetically Modified Foods Continue To Confuse Consumers

Did you hear this! Vermont is the first state to pass GMO laws which happened 2 weeks ago! Woohoo! Read up on this article and start some action in your state!

+ Brighten Up Your Kitchen

I pretty much want all of this!

Health:

+ 7 Ways To Conquer Anxiety

Baby steps to easing your anxiety.

+ Overcoming Anorexia: Meg’s Success Story

I love this women! She continually inspires her readers!

+ Feeding The Adrenals

The importance of sleep and salt in recovery!

+ The Bottom Line On Calcium Supplements

Too much of a good thing can be bad.

+ 7th-Grader Organizes 5k To Benefit Celiac Disease

Well look at that! This kid is awesome! If you live in Illinois, you should go! It’s on June 8th!

Blogging & Social Media:

+ How To Start A Blog

Want to start a blog? You can!

+ Spring Clean You Blog In Ten Steps

I plan on doing a lot of overhaul and maintenance this summer! (i.e. self-hosted?!)

+ Blogger’s Beginner Guide

More important things to keep in mind when starting a blog.

+ How To Create A Printable Media Kit For Your Blog Using Google Drive

I write down “media kit” on my to-do list every week…but it hasn’t happened yet…

+ 5 Tips For Better Photos (Hint: Stop Saying “Cheese”)

Great tips for capturing the real natural beauty of life.

+ How I’ve Increased My Blog Readership

Just a few easy steps you can implement to increase your reach!

+ 5 Reasons For Blog Slumps And How To Overcome Them

This is a really great read with practical answer!

Beauty & Fashion:

+ Happy Boobs

How to really find your true bra size and fit! P.S. Victoria’s Secret measures you wrong!

Favorite Pins:

(Follow me on Pinterest – RebeccaGF666)

Crunchy Baked Rhubarb Oatmeal with Homemade Hazelnut Milk. This looks like a glorious breakfast!

A.L.C. Landon Jumpsuit. Okay, if this wasn’t $387 (normally $645, but there is a discount), I would marry this look! So chic, I am in love!

Quick Pickled Beets. Yay, pickling with zero salt! My kind of pickle..or…beet in this case 😉

4-Ingredient Vegan Banana Pancakes. This girl knows how to do it! Simplicity at its best. I think she is my pancake soul sister 😉

Summer Maxi. I need this…so perfect 🙂

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Mexican Salad. Yea, this is a bowl of heaven 😉

A few things I loved about my week or am grateful for:

+ WATER! I have been drinking so much! I think it has to do with the warmer weather. I normally drink tons, but I am definitely exceeding my 100oz minimum now. I found it harder to drink during this long winter, but now I just can’t stop. but that is okay! Water is so damn good and makes me feel really good!

+ Burt’s Bees Lip Balm with Mango Butter! So good! I am obsessed with this one. I usually stuck with the original beeswax, but I got this mango one for Christmas and finally needed to open a new one. Well I love it and you should buy it if you are in need of some nourished lips 🙂

+ Warm weather. I think I will be grateful for this for awhile. Even though it is rainy and gloomy these next few days (my power even went out yesterday morning for a few minutes), I am still loving that it is warm! No more freezing to death in my car on my way to school 🙂

+ Going to bed before the sun is down! I have been going to lie down in bed by 8:39 the last few nights and even though it’s a bit weird, I love that there is still some waning sunlight shining through 😉 Very peaceful!

So tell me:

+What are you Memorial Day plans, anything fun?

+ Have you ever burned yourself cooking? I mean really burned yourself? Well I did on Tuesday while I was taking out a tray of glorious roasted red baby potatoes. Instead of using an over mitt, I just used a pot holder and my wrist touched the upper rack. It didn’t hurt at first and I ran it under cold water. But while I was eating dinner, it starting hurting a lot and the mark formed and then bubbled. I have never burned myself like that before! Yes I have touched hot things and burned the roof of my mouth (a lot), but never an actual oven burn. I have been putting Neosporen on it and am just hoping it will go away and not scar. My skin scars really easily though, so I am a bit scared…(at least it is only about 1/2 in. But it is bubbled…and burned…

+ Have you ever eaten a Quince? Well I bough one last weekend and it is still on my counter. I looked up how to know when it is ripe and found out that it is usually cooked before eating, not eaten raw unless it is really really ripe. It is still hard so I am going to wait a few more days before cutting it open. Any Quince ideas?

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Gluten-Free Myths…Debunked!

May 20, 2014 by Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine 34 Comments

There are a lot of misconceptions about being gluten-free. If you tell someone you are gluten-free, they either act like they know all about it and assume you are doing it as some short-term diet fad. Or they stare at you, the deer in the headlights look, and ask, “Can you eat fruit?”. I’ve gotten both and each time, I just want to pull my hair out. Most of the time I just keep my dietary restrictions to myself unless it becomes necessary to tell someone. Easier for them, easier for me. People just can’t grasp the fact that the reason (most) people are gluten-free is because of Celiac Disease. An autoimmune disease, not a fad diet. When you do try to explain and defend your illness and reasons for being g-free, you get asked a boat load of questions. They all have a theme though. They are all strong held myths! Myths that have been put out their by the media, lack of education, and lack of awareness.

Lets clear some of these up, shall we? Lets blow those myths out of the water and hopefully spread some truth that will give us Celiacs a break!

Myth #1: Celiac Disease is the same as a gluten allergy or intolerance.

False! Celiac Disease is a severe autoimmune disease. When the protein, gluten, enters the body, the body acts as though it is a foreign invader and attacks itself causing severe damage to the small intestine and villi. An allergy is when the food cause an immune-response that is abnormal and cause specific anti-bodies to be produced leading to an anaphylaxis or other response. An intolerance is experiencing adverse symptoms to gluten, but not having the anti-bodies or intestinal damage as seen with Celiac.

Myth #2: Your body can feel better after just one day of starting your gluten-free diet.

False! You may start to physically feels better after a week or so, but it can also take a few months. It does take a full 6 months to heal the damage done to your digestive track and intestines. It depends on the person, but it will take more than just one day to get out of the gluten-fog and body beat down. (Don’t get discouraged!) Your body has been though so much distress and damage, it needs time to recover and start processing nutrients correctly again. It will take some time.

chrons

Myth #3: Wheat-free means Gluten-free.

False! This one kills me! Just because something says “wheat-free” DOES NOT mean it is also gluten-free. Wheat is just one cereal gran and part of the top 8 allergens so you will see it labeled often. Gluten is in not only all forms of wheat, but also barley, rye, and their derivatives. When I was first diagnosed I made the careless mistake of buying a cereal that said wheat-free. Little did I know it contained barley-malt. Thus, I ate it and suffered the consequences before I went back and looked more closely at those ingredients.

Myth #4: Gluten-free also means Grain-free.

False! Just because you are gluten-free does not mean you have to be grain free. The are a plethora of gluten-free grains for you to enjoy! This isn’t the Paleo diet people, this is the gluten-free diet 😉

Myth #5: All oats are safe to eat on a Gluten-free diet.

False! Oats are very controversial because they have their own protein called avenin. “Some celiac disease patients have avenin-reactive mucosal T-cells that can cause mucosal inflammation. Oat intolerance may be a reason for villous atrophy and inflammation in patients with celiac disease who are eating oats but otherwise are adhering to a strict gluten-free diet.” (source). But that is a very small minority of Celiacs…very small. As long as you get CERTIFIED gluten-free oats, you will be okay. Oats are commonly grown and rotated in the same fields as wheat. You need to buy oats from brands like GF Harvest (my favorite) or Bob’s Red Mill. NOT Quaker as they are contaminated.

Myth #6: You can have a “Cheat-Day” on a Gluten-free diet.

False! If you ingest gluten at any time, your body will go into its autoimmune response. Even the littlest bit, 20ppm (max!) will make you sick. This is not a diet you can cheat on. This has to be a lifestyle change for your health. Treat your body right and stop harming it. This is a severe disease that can cause detrimental consequences.

Myth #7: You can “take-the-croutons-off-the-salad”.

False! Again, this goes along with #6. You can not simply remove the croutons or eat the icing off a gluten-filled cupcake. This is severe cross-contamination that will make you sick. You are ingesting gluten, it does not matter if it is one crouton or a whole piece of bread.

Myth #8: You can take a special enzyme pill and then go eat gluten.

False! No, just no. This is not lactose-intolerance where you can take some Lactaid and enjoy some yogurt. Pills like GlutenEase and Gluten Cutter ARE NOT safe for Celiacs. You can not eat gluten ever! The only treatment is a strict life-long gluten-free diet. Celiac Disease is just that, a disease. These “enzymes” are just propaganda by drug companies wanted you money. They do not work, do not even try. *I can’t speak for those with gluten sensitivities using them, but really, just don’t eat gluten if you have a medial problem with it. Period.

Myth #9: Gluten-free only pertains to what you eat.

False! Remember how I mention gluten can be a sneaky little thing? Well it is. Gluten can be in medications, beauty products like lipstick, eye-liner, eye-shadow, etc. Anything with an ingredients list must be checked thoroughly. Not just food!

Supplements 1

Myth #10: If a food is labeled as Gluten-Free, that means it is healthy.

False! A cookie is a cookie, a cake is a cake. Just because something has “Gluten-Free” written on it, does not mean it all of a sudden assumes a new health status. It is just like products labeled “Organic”. Just because those chips are organic and those are not, does not mean the organic ones are any healthier. Gluten-Free is not a health claim, is it a safety signal for those of us with Celiac.

Myth #11: The Gluten-free diet is for everyone!

False! So false. The only people who need to be gluten-free are those with Celiac and other gluten-related medical disorders. A normal person who eats wheat is going to be no healthier than a celiac eating gluten-free. Gluten is not a poison to 99% of the population. However our agriculture practices have gotten so bad that genetically modified forms of wheat and other foods has caused a rise in food allergies and food related disorders. Thus, the diet for everyone is to simply eat clean, whole foods from the Earth. Local and organic when possible and very very minimally processed. Do that, eat for health, and you own food-allergies and you are golden.

Now for the biggest one of all! Myth #12: I should go Gluten-Free to lose weight.

False! False! False! Please, just stop the madness! Going Gluten-free is not a weight-loss diet! Going Gluten-free actually helps those Celiacs who have lost a significant amount of weight from malapsorption, to gain weight. Gluten-free processed products can actually be more calorie and carb dense than their gluten-filled counterparts. However, when people go Gluten-free for medical reasons, they may just become more health conscious to begin with. They are going to start cooking more of their own meals, using a larger variety real whole foods, and getting a more balanced diet. That is why it may be a misconception that going gluten-free can be used as a weight loss diet. But no, it is not and never will be. Just stop eating processed, sugar-filled, chemical/artificial laden food and then you can loss weight. It is not about eating “Gluten-free”, it is about eating real food.

Please tell me you won’t believe these myths ever again. Erase them from your memory and start letting people know the facts! And please, whatever you do, never ever ask a Celiac if they can eat fruit. Please, just don’t.

So tell me:

+ Are there any myths out there that I missed? I tried to think of all the big ones!

+ If you have Celiac or a food allergy/intolerance, what is your biggest pet peeve? The extreme ignorance and lack of understanding…even when you explain things.

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Power Monday #45 8 Steps to Success When Eating Out Gluten-Free

May 19, 2014 by Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine 32 Comments

Happy Power Monday! How was your weekend? I have a pretty fulfilling and productive one myself! It feels good to get things done right? Plus, it is day one of the Gluten-Free Challenge! I hope you are all starting your day with a nourishing g-free breakfast! I am so excited to get to read all of your thoughts and experiences at the end.Remember the link-up will be up on the next Power Monday and you can also email your experience at strengthandsunshine(at)gmail(dot)com if you don’t have a blog. Use the hashtag #GFC14 and post all your amazing g-free meals to instagram or twitter too! Lets make awareness!

Now one thing I have yet to address is eating out while having Celiac disease. When you have any food allergy or disease, eating out can be the scariest most daunting task. I know it was and still is for me, but I am making some progress and allaying my fears and taking a few leaps of faith when necessary. Through my few most recent dining out experiences, I have learned and implemented just a few easy steps to make sure I stay safe and happy. I don’t know if I will ever feel “OK” with eating out, but if I really must, at least I know it can be done safely and healthfully.

Step 1: Search. This is the first step and most “time” consuming, but also one of the most essential. Where ever you are going, may that be a local place or you need to find someone on your vacation destination, you need to look up your options. I like to create a folder in my bookmarks tab on my laptop with the name of the destination I will be at. Then I start simply searching Google for gluten-free/allergy-friendly restaurants. I like to start with a general search, but then move on to sites like Gluten Free Registry, Yelp, and Find Me Gluten Free. Also don’t be scared to ask on Twitter or in Facebook groups for recommendations. I have also found success with asking fellow food bloggers what they might suggest! Reach out!

Step 2: Narrow it down. Once you have a huge compilation of possible places, it is time to narrow down your results. Start by reading reviews. Of course I never go fully on a review as some people are simply very biased or opinionated on the internet, but they can give you a general idea of how the restaurant is. Next I always scour the menus for hours! Look and see exactly what you might want to try, see if they have anything at all. By doing this, you can get a feel and head start on what you will be ordering when it comes to go time. This will give you a better opportunity to prepare your host (see the next step for more). If you find that the menu is mostly pasta, pizza, and burgers (with no gluten-free options) it may be a good one to delete form your list. Look for special gluten-free menus and even distinguishing marks like asterisks that denote gluten-free. This is always a good indicator that the restaurant is cognizant of safe food practices.

Step 3: Call ahead. (Or email). Once you have the possible places you feel you may be safe eating at, make sure you call or email the restaurant. Ask about food safety/cross-contamination practices, all their gluten-free menu options, and other information you need to feel safe. You can tell by speaking to them just how educated they are on food allergies, so pay attention to how they respond. If you feel like the place you called is a good match, make reservations! By doing this you can tell them to prepare for your arrival and they can plan ahead with the chef if necessary. You also get seated quickly and it just makes the experience better 😉

Step 4: Arrive on time. This may seem silly, but make sure you are courteous and arrive on time for your reservation. Ask for a gluten-free menu if applicable, and have a smile on your face. By sending out positive vibes, your hosts will be a lot happier to accommodate you! This is also a good time to ask to meet with the chef. Some restaurants will gladly bring out the chef and he can talk to you about practices and options he recommends. (This is really common when visiting small family owned restaurants!)

Step 5: Place that order. Hopefully you already have the dish you want in mind since you did all that menu research! When the server comes to take everyone’s order, inform them one more time about your allergy and restrictions. Make everything clear and defined (this is life threatening!). Also this is the time to ask for substitutions and swaps. I never order a menu item to the T. You can usually change up sides really easy, add or subtract elements, etc. I don’t eat dairy or eggs so I have to do this often even if the dish is gluten-free. Restaurants now are even carrying g-free pasta which you can just swap for normal pasta in a normal menu dish. Just ask!

*If you are eating out in a foreign county, there are special restaurant cards in every possible language you can give to your server and the chef so ensure what you need is able to be accommodated and met safely.

Step 6: Inspect your dish. Before you dig in, inspect each element on the plate. Make sure there are not accidental hidden croutons under that lettuce or a sauce you did not request put on you chicken. If everything looks safe, then you are good to go. If not, do not be afraid to get your dish corrected. Ask for a whole new plate (you must), and don’t settle for anything less.

Step 7: Enjoy you meal, family, and laughter. Now you should just enjoy your meal and those you are with. You have taken every step and precaution possible. Just relax and enjoy, you can’t do anything now! 80% of the time you will come out fine, but there will always be risk, always.

Step 8: Thank your server, chef, and host. If you have a great experience, make sure you leave a good tip and thank all those who helped accommodate you. Ask to speak to the chef and even thank him personally! Next time you come back, they will remember you and your experience will only become safer and happier for everyone!

Follow these 8 simple steps are you can eat out with a bit more piece of mind! Just because you have Celiac or other food allergy does not mean you HAVE TO bring you own food everywhere you go (like I always did and still do most times). But you can eat out safely and enjoy the same experience as you family and friends. (Always have a back-up plan just in case, or make sure to always have snacks with you if things don’t go according to plan!)

So tell me:

+ What safety measure do you take when going to eat out with food allergies?

+ Any horror stories to share? The worst is when you tell your server you can’t have gluten and they say, “Don’t worry, this dish does not have eggs!” Yea, that is when you get up and leave 😉

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