“That’s it, gluten! We’re officially over.” says Lauren to the delicious and pliable whole wheat wrap on her plate. (She throws it into the garbage then wipes away a tear.) But then, the week after, she’s enjoying the most delicious balsamic marinated grilled tofu melt on top of thick ciabatta bread. Heaven. The next day, bloated and crampy she throws the breaded parts of her yummy left overs into the trash and becomes emotional because she’s forced to break things off with gluten yet again. (This emotional roller-coaster of a relationship with Lauren and gluten continue on and on.)
I went gluten free last fall for a little over 2 months and felt GREAT. However, since then I began adding little bits of gluten back in here and there. I avoid it whenever I can but as you have read, I do have some slip ups now and then! As with all of the evolutions in my diet, I know it takes time to implement and stick to new changes. Saying goodbye (even limiting gluten) seems to be the hardest, but I have absolute faith that I will get there. I’ve already implemented some simple changes that have been really tasty and nutritious. For example:
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Thanks, Ryan. Now I will think of you each time I want some fluffy bread & feel better because you have my back. |
The list goes on…and basically all of the changes have resulted in eating more whole, real foods at each meal which has been great! But just as with most meaningful relationships, you’ll have a difficult time separating and calling it quits, and I’m clearly in this stage. I’m writing this to remind everyone that I struggle just like everyone else with making changes to my diet. During times like this I really have to take the advice that I give to my clients and be patient, stay focused, make the best decision I can at every meal and most importantly remind myself that it’s OK if I slip here and there.
Have you gone gluten-free and have any ideas, stories, recipes or suggestions? Please share!