Sweet, Simple and Savory

Do you want a sweet treat for breakfast, snack or post-dinner snack? Well instead of reaching for that pie or sugary cake, take a bite of Lara Bars, the most amazing alternative to sugary, calorie filled desserts. The three flavors in which I enjoyed the most were the Chocolate Coconut Chew, Carrot Cake and Apple Pie. 

These delicious bars give you not only the energy you need, but also satisfying flavors, while remaining healthy. 

I LOVED the chips of chocolate and hearty pieces of coconut in this bar (pictured below). It can be difficult to find a snack that's convenient, tasty and gives you enough flavor, while being Gluten-Free, so rest assured, you have now found the Lara Bar. 

Gluten-Free Pancakes

These are the best pancakes I've ever eaten! My Dad bought me this mix and made them alongside a banana and milk and what more could I ask for. The texture, consistency and flavor was better than I've had with any pancake with wheat in it. These make great left-overs as well. The directions on the back call for making probably more pancakes that one needs at a time, so I like to make the full serving and then have them for a snack later. To reheat simply put them in the oven, microwave or even toaster (of course a toaster that hasn't been contaminated with wheat or gluten). Enjoy and know that you're eating a Gluten-Free friendly and healthy meal. 

How Jamie Oliver is changing the world

Food. It's a source of energy, health, growth and friendship. But lately, or for the past 30 years, food has started killing our country. I am sorry if that sounds too intense, but it is the truth. The amount of sugar, fats, excess calories and processed ingredients in food is atrocious. Food is a means to live and enjoy, whereas now food is shortening the lives of people, creating cancer, disease and mortality. The food that our culture consumes is shortening the lifespan of the next generation. 

I have always been a follower of Jamie Oliver, but over the years I have been so grateful for his mission to change the world and how we look at food. 

Please watch this amazing video of Jamie and appearance on Ted-Talks with his wish for the world. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=go_QOzc79Uc

Ancient Harvest Quinoa Pasta

 

Pasta, Pasta and more pasta! Those with Gluten allergies have to stay away from pasta and it being a main staple in our culture and delicious food, and it is a misfortune to be without it. Ancient Harvest Quinoa makes your taste-buds happy again with their Gluten Free Linguine. GF pasta does not taste exactly like wheat pasta, but actually I believe it's ever BETTER! Ancient Harvest has the ability to make pasta taste authentic, savory and filled with nutrients. And after reading a recent article about health, it is said that pasta al-dente has a lower glycemic level and causing less calories. Gluten Free pasta can come out al-dente, therefore, two perks for the price of one. 

I cannot tell you how amazing Ancient Harvest is to my eating options. I love that you can eat like anyone else and it's simple, tasty and even closer to making you feel full and satisfied. 

Dining Out means making choices....

I have always said that no matter where you go, it can be possible to have a Gluten Free meal, and I do still believe that. Unfortunately in today's culture, gluten is EVERYWHERE, and when I say that I mean it's everywhere. When coming back from Pennsylvania last weekend I stopped in Atlanta and when bypassing all the fast food and unhealthy options available at most airports, I sat down at TGI Friday's. I know, not the healthiest of choices, but when looking for a savory meal I figured my chain restaurant would not only have options, but at least be aware of GF allergies.

When receiving the GF menu from the waiter, (which was good to see that they had a display of allergies contained in all foods), but unfortunately almost EVERY food at Gluten in it. I was shocked and even when I thought I would choose a healthy item such as the chicken salad, I came to find out that the chicken was marinated and had wheat in it.

After seeing all my choices, I went with the Grilled Burger with lots of veggies and a potatoes for my side, instead of anything that might have been fried...

 

After this experience, I really urge you to ask more questions, think of what MIGHT contain wheat and take ownership that you have a Gluten Allergy or choose not to eat Gluten. I recently told a friend that if a food makes you sick, making others realize you're serious about it, makes them realize your limitations.

I know that my Celiac Disease is a huge part of my life because it has drastic effects if I eat Gluten. I know it can be a bit of challenge, but you can do it!