Fitness is an important part of my life, not only for my physical health, but also for mental clarity. But with a busy schedule, going to the gym may not always seem like a priority. Here is how I stay healthy, and fit everything in without sacrificing sleep. 1) Make it a priority. There is … Continue reading Six Ways to Fit Days

A gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy is just like a peanut allergy, but the social situations involving gluten seem to be much different than those involving peanuts. No one would ever say "just try one cashew" to someone with a severe nut allergy, so why do they say "just take one bite" to people with … Continue reading A Guide to Gluten-Free Etiquette

There is much debate around the subject of gluten. Researchers continue to publish studies with new findings, and people continue to adopt a gluten-free diet -- both those who have been tested for celiac disease and those who haven't. For those who have been tested and diagnosed, the seriousness of their disease is sometimes scoffed … Continue reading Gluten-Free Intolerance

When my doctor first suggested that I go on a gluten-free diet, I was overwhelmed. I didn't know what exactly gluten was, but it seemed to be in almost everything. Thoughts of running a vineyard in pasta-plentiful Italy turned to sour grapes. My shoe budget was reassigned to picking up the extra cost of gluten-free … Continue reading 3 Misconceptions About Being Gluten-Free I Had as a Beginner

As a pasta-loving Italian, eliminating gluten from my diet at the recommendation of my doctor seemed to leave me with extremely limited food options. However, compelled by my compounding fatigue and stomachaches, I waved the white (and red and green) flag, and embarked on my gluten-free adventure, eager for more energy and less pain. I … Continue reading 4 Ways Giving Up Gluten Improved My Life

Waitress: You're gluten-free? Me: That's right. Waitress: So no potatoes. Huh? As the waitress jotted down "no potatoes" on her notepad, I wondered how she came to that conclusion. Perhaps the potatoes were in some gravy that was made with wheat. Or maybe... maybe she thought that "gluten-free" meant "carb-free," since so many foods that … Continue reading Gluten-Free? So No Potatoes

Recently I was in the hospital for a small procedure, which required anesthesia. Upon my arrival, I was asked about any allergies I have, at which point I disclosed my intolerance to gluten. A large, red bracelet was secured prominently on my wrist, the word "GLUTEN" in bold, black writing. This indicates to the doctors … Continue reading No Cookie For You

While going gluten-free is a medical treatment for many, there's no denying that it's also become a fad. You may have tried going gluten-free for a variety of reasons apart from medical -- for example, seeking a smaller waistline, more energy, or clearer skin. Didn't work? Here are a few possible reasons why. 1) A … Continue reading 3 Things You Thought Would Change By Going Gluten-Free

So, you went gluten-free. But now your morning bagel is on the "forbidden" list and you only have a leftover sandwich in your fridge for lunch. Plus, you spent 30 minutes of your break reading food labels at the grocery store but didn't buy anything because you left your nutritionist's list of "additional words that … Continue reading The Cost of Gluten-Free