When we lived in Hawaii I did an experiment. I went gluten free for a week to see if there was a difference in how I felt. Surprisingly, there is something to it! I had more energy, I didn't feel like I had a "brick" in my belly, and heck, I lost 8 pounds! But after that week of feeling great, I ate a yummy turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread...This is where the real test took place. It was almost immediate, that heavy feeling was back and I just felt blah and icky! That was all I needed...I was convinced!
As with most good things that take effort, this gluten free way of life has gone by the way side. When we moved back to the mainland a year and a half ago and we were staying with family...who are NOT gluten free, by any means, I just got out of the habit...In the back of my mind I knew what I needed to do but it was just easier not to. I have just been being lazy! It's not easy being gluten free, especially when I was the only one wanting to do it.
Gluten is found in everything...from cosmetics~ lip stick, lip balm, chap stick and shampoo/conditioner to over-the-counter medications and vitamins. It is even in crayons, markers and paints! Gluten is used as a thickening agent and stabilizer in many foods. Being gluten free takes effort and planning. Since I am not a celiac, I don't think that I will ever be 100% gluten free.. I don't want to buy special shampoo and I'm not changing my lipstick, but I think there is benefit in being gluten free with what I put into my body.
This past week my husband has been eating gluten free and it has inspired me to do it too! I am definitely back on the wagon! I have even lost a few pounds. I just feel better on a gluten free diet! And isn't that what it is all about...feeling good and finding what works best for you?
Are you gluten free?
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