Fourteen years ago, I was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Doctors told me that there was nothing they could do to help ease my discomfort and pain, except that I should watch my diet, reduce stress, and get lots of exercise.
I attempted numerous alternative therapies and cut out meats, fermented foods, hot and spicy foods, and dairy products. However, it took three years ago before someone recommended that I eliminate wheat from my diet. Until this time, it had never occurred to me that wheat, or gluten, could be the source of my ailments.
I have been wheat-free for over ten years now and gluten-free for about seven. My “IBS” is all but gone, and I lead a very healthy and normal life. My story isn’t uncommon; in fact, it has become increasingly common for people who suffer from a broad range of symptoms from lethargy to liver disease.
The over-consumption of wheat and gluten in our modern-day North American diet is seen to be a thread in many illnesses. Fortunately for us, as Celiac disease and gluten intolerance become more common, so does the availability of gluten-free products.
I know how difficult it can be to commit to a gluten-free lifestyle change. Our relationship with food changes and so do our social interactions. It can be more difficult to dine out or eat with friends and it takes more conscious menu planning. However, the positive impacts of going gluten-free on our health and on the planet can be astounding.
By going gluten-free, you are inherently eliminating many processed foods from your diet and introducing a variety of whole foods. By switching from wheat flour to flour made from almonds, quinoa, or buckwheat (among others) you enhance your intake of nutrients and minerals while reducing your carbon footprint. A win-win situation if I do say so myself!
So for those of you who are new to being gluten-free, fear not! The following resources will help you get the information and support you need, as well as show you a few of my favourite products that I am sure you’ll be happy with.
Resources:
www.celiac.com
www.glutenfreemall.com
www.americanceliac.org
www.celiac.ca
http://glutenfreenetwork.com
Recipes:
http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/
http://www.julesglutenfree.com/
http://www.elanaspantry.com/
Gluten-free products I love:
Kinnikinnick
Gluten-Free Pantry/Glutino
El Peto
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