Gluten, ah yes, that buzzword that seems to be taking over our modern day vocabulary when it comes to food and everything in between. What even is gluten and where can it be found? Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, barley, rye and triticale (cross between wheat and rye). It is a substance that acts as a glue and helps keep foods together. It is also what makes cakes and bread so fluffy. Gluten is a sneaky compound that is found in almost every pre-packaged food as well as in our kitchens, restaurants and even in our beauty products. All it takes is just one microscopic piece of gluten to cause a reaction for a Celiac. To learn more about gluten and where it hides visit Celiac.org .
We’ve been hearing quite a bit about Celiac Disease A LOT lately. Is it a new disease? What is it and why is everyone talking about it? Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body’s immune system to go into attack mode when one ingests gluten. This response forces the body to attack the small intestine which in turn causes damage to the villi causing improper digestion of nutrients. Not only does gluten contribute to the destruction of intestinal villi, it also causes a wide range of symptoms from brain fog to tingling feet that can make everyday life hard for those that suffer from it. Celiac disease is not something new, it has been around for over 2000 years. There is no cure and the only treatment for it is to adhere to a strict gluten free diet. Learn more about Celiac Disease here.
Okay, all of this information about gluten and CD is great and all, but who does it affect? Celiac Disease affects both children and adults. Due to the nature of the disease itself it can take years to get a proper diagnosis. Gluten causes many symptoms including; fatigue, bloating, irritability, joint pain, stomach pain, migraines, brain fog and more. The good news is not everyone that experiences gluten-related symptoms has Celiac Disease. Studies show that 1 in 100 people have Celiac Disease and about 6% of people have a known gluten intolerance. Gluten intolerance is formally referred to as NCGS (Non Celiac Gluten Sensitivity). To learn more click here.
As a mom of two toddlers with food allergies, and my own allergies/celiac disease, I always participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project and pass out allergy friendly treats and trinkets each Halloween. I have compiled the ULTIMATE list of top allergen free candy, treats and non-food items. The best part about this list is that…
After a three year break, it’s time for the largest in-person gluten free event in the US! The Nourished Festival, is coming back to Illinois. If you aren’t local, don’t worry there is an online version of the festival taking place that you can attend for FREE. Like in previous years, I have been chosen…
It’s almost my birthday and what better way to celebrate than with these confetti donuts!? I’m not sure what it is about sprinkles, but they just seem to make everything taste better. These gluten free and vegan donuts come together fairly quickly and within an hour you’ll have a mini batch of this fun sprinkled…
If you grew up in the 2000s like me, then you probably remember when General Mills’ milk n’ cereal bars came out. I remember trying all the flavors with my sister and loving them. I always wished they would make a froot loop one and they never did. In 2020, General Mills launched Froot Loop…
Hummus is a staple in my house, we just cannot live without it. This quick and easy homemade hummus recipe will leave you with a batch of fresh hummus so delicious you’ll never enjoy store bought again! I serve this hummus at every event that I host and it is always a hit! I have…
During the summertime, I often find myself craving the refreshing and tangy taste of lemons. There’s something about the sunny season that makes the bright and citrusy flavor of lemons incredibly appealing. Whether it’s a cold glass of lemonade or a light lemon-infused dish, the zesty notes of lemon perfectly complement the warm weather and…
