Becoming Gluten Free

Gluten Free-Why?

When my husband rebounded from Microcytic Anemia, we noticed that although his Iron levels were up, he still suffered gastro-intestinal irritation. After a process of elimination we found that he was sensitive to Gluten. Having suffered from GERD for over a decade, he often had Doctor recommended dietary endorsements. Despite following this advice for years he still would suffer from heartburn and nausea. Interestingly some of the main culprits were Farina, Oatmeal and Bread. These foods although mild to many, would send an acidic firestorm up and down his esophagus. In time the belching would commence, and he would be miserable.

Being new to the world of a Gluten Free lifestyle was not easy at first. Trips to the store would often result in large amounts of money being spent on small packages of Gluten-Free items. I was trying to recreate our Gluten filled diet. I have to say that most of the gluten free foods tasted pretty good. In fact some were so good that I bought 2, one for him and one for the kids and I. These easily became some of our favorites:

Udi's Pizza Crust-http://udisglutenfree.com/

Almond Dream Bites- http://www.tastethedream.com/products/adfrozen_category.php

Bobs Red Mills Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix-http://www.bobsredmill.com/Gluten-Free

Enjoy Life Snickerdoodles-http://www.soap.com/p/enjoy-life-soft-baked-cookies-snickerdoodle-6-pk-301137?site=CA&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=cpc_S&utm_term=ZQB-18471B&utm_campaign=GoogleAW&CAWELAID=1323247910&utm_content=pla&adtype=pla&cagpspn=pla

Sofella's Chocolate Cake Mix-http://www.sofellafoods.com/

Jennies All Natural Gluten Free Macaroon-http://www.macaroonking.com/

Kinnikinnick Maple Donuts-http://consumer.kinnikinnick.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/products.home/productcategoryid/17#

Winco Foods- Gluten Free Pasta by the Pound $1.59

Prego-Spaghetti Sauce

Organic Tamari Gluten Free Soy Sauce-http://www.san-j.com/product_info.asp?id=4

In time the newness faded and we discovered that a diet based on basic ingredients seemed to work the best for our family. Organic Greens and vegetables, along with potato or rice based sides began to shape our menu. It became increasingly easy to use these ingredients to explore new ways to prepare meals. I'll post some of our favorites like, Monterrey Chicken , Corn Salad, Asian Lettuce Wraps, Aussie Burgers, Thai Basil Fried Rice and more....but as for now Goooood Night.