A Beginner’s Guide to Going Gluten-Free

For whatever reason, the need has presented itself to you to go gluten-free – be glad and listen! You will have remarkable experience in healing so many symptoms you couldn’t have even known were being caused by this inflammatory grain.

Regardless of the ‘why’ you’re going gluten-free, inflammation is inflammation! It could be coming in the form of an autoimmune disease, skin issues, fibromyalgia, MS, Alzheimer’s disease, IBS, constipation, diarrhea, celiac disease, systemic candida, and the list goes on and on! So how do you manage and facilitate the healing of these core issues? A great first step is to clean up your diet.

I’ve been assisting people for years with finding their way around clean eating habits. Today I will be addressing the gluten-free section of the dietary recommendations.

Now, I’ve heard all the excuses, and whining, seen the temper tantrums, and don’t forget the denial. And I’ve heard it all along the way too!

How is eating a slice of sourdough bread every morning a problem?

Doesn’t eat gluten but cooks and marinates everything in soy sauce.

Thinks breaded chicken nuggets are just ‘chicken’ and no gluten.

Fails to see that hair care products have wheat in them.

Thinks beer and grain alcohol is okay to drink.

So on and so forth…

The 3 Phases of Six to Eight

Let me explain to you part of what you will be feeling and experiencing during your journey, it’s what I call, ‘The 3 Phases of Six to Eight’

What are the 3 phases of 6-8?

1. 6-8 Days – Anger, withdrawal, denial, tantrum, sadness, apathy
2. 6-8 Weeks – Clarity, way less bloating, weight loss, clothes fit differently, even better sleep and skin!
3. 6-8 Months – It’s FINALLY all the way out of your body! You feel so good now that the thought of bringing it back in is horrible! You will never want to feel that bloating, fatigue, and constipation again!

Once you realize that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, you will see that it’s not so bad. You will find other options, and it will get easier.

Start With Replacements

The easiest way to start is to clear out your pantry and fridge at home and swap items in as you need them. Here’s my guide on how to stock your pantry.

In the beginning, it’s easy enough to bridge the gap and find some gluten-free bread, crackers, and baking mixes. There are places you can go for a gluten-free pizza, cake, and sweet treat. You will be totally okay, and a little too eager to put these things in your regular rotation, but beware! These things have sugar, carbs, and high sodium content. It’s okay to get over the bridge but watch your step! Most newbs to the gluten-free world lose inflammatory weight but gain caloric weight.

Here are some of my favorite bridge items to hit that spot that feels denied:

• Simple Mills – their entire product lines has very clean ingredients and can be found in most major grocery stores. They carry cake mixes, cookies, crackers, and more all of which hit the spot!
• Wally’s Pizza Bar – hands down the best gluten-free pizza crust. Unfortunately not dairy-free.
• Trader Joes – I love their gluten-free bagels and breads! Here’s a complete list of all the gluten-free items they carry.
• Canyon Bake House – great replacement for your average sliced bread
• Simple Kneads – their sourdough gluten-free bread is my current favorite

There are SO many options now compared to several years ago. Every major grocery store carries plenty of options. I love shopping at Whole Foods and Sprouts in particular.

Eating Out

Now, when you go out ask for the gluten-free menu, pretty much everyone has them now!

If you’re going to visit a friend and there is food involved, don’t be afraid to state your needs. Let them know you’re gluten-free and are happy to bring your own and something for them to share or meet up at a place you know is safe for you to eat. Let the ego go and take care of yourself. You will find that people are more upset about your new dietary needs than you are! Crazy huh? Just help them out and give some grace here as everyone needs to learn the new behavior.

Read Your Labels

Watch out for hidden gluten like MSG, maltodextrin, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and some BBQ sauces made with beer (and not the gluten-free kind either).

Did you know gluten is in cold medicines (NyQuil/Dayquil) and even your prescription meds? Ask your doctor if your medication is gluten-free.

Gluten also lurks in your conventional personal care products. This is why I love clean non-toxic beauty products from Annmarie Skincare.

Remember to keep it simple and read labels. If you get cross-contaminated, take note of where the slip happened and what you can do differently next time and move on. Here’s more on what do when you’re a victim of cross-contamination.

It may seem overwhelming at first but You WILL get it, and I’m here to help. Schedule a session with me and we can get the ball rolling and begin the healing.

My next blog will be series 2 on a Beginners Guide to Going Dairy-Free. It will go hand in hand with your gluten-free diet!