Thursday, December 27, 2018

New Year's Resolution

You know, I have never made a new years resolution! In all my years of motherhood, you would expect me to have at least once, but I haven't. Why did I mention motherhood?  Because as mom's we tend to focus on our shortcomings, what we could have done better, how messy the house is, and are we feeding our family nutritionally enough... We can be really hard on ourselves at times, especially us food allergy and gluten sensitivity moms! We stress over all the details of food prep, are the kids getting enough social time around food, is there anything lacking in their diet, and so much more. My biggest concern is, What if my slip up causes an allergic reaction?
Hey, Mom, YOU AREN'T PERFECT, it's true, but all your kids see is a mom that loves them enough to keep trying inspite of failures, inspite of reactions, inspite of the restrictions. They see A MOM THAT LOVES THEM and they want to see you happy. The best way to win is to choose not to grumble about the situation. Instead choose happiness no matter the situation. Choose a smile. Choose confidence. Choose faith. Because the mistakes are naturally gonna happen, that's how we learn. We can't be perfect, but we can continue to do our best! YOU ARE YOUR CHILD'S HERO! Keep up the good work!
~Em~

#GlutenFreeEm #FoodAllergyMomma #GlutenSensitivityMomma #keeptrying #youreahero #smile #NewYear #yougotthis
#bestrong #FoodAllergyAwareness #GlutenSensitivityAwareness #CeliacDiseaseAwareness #EpipensSaveLives #AnaphylaxisPrevention #educatetheworld #spreadtheword

Thursday, November 8, 2018

Apple Pie, Em's Way...

When I was 12, my mom taught me how to win the heart of a man...She taught me how to make apple pie! At the age of 13 I had already personalized my recipe for traditional apple pie, and at a silent auction fundraiser, one of my pies sold for $75!!! Of course, I was thrilled and amazed...the man that bought it had tasted my pie before, so I was hoping he really did like it.
Then, one day I learned I had gluten sensitivity... no more pies the way I used to make them. It was a hard fact to swallow. "Oh, well that's only one ingredient I have to change. I can find another flour to substitute", was my attitude. Months later, I found out that the swelling in my throat was related to food allergies...multiple food allergies. So many that I had trouble keeping up with the list. Over the years I have developed more...no more cinnamon, no more egg, no more corn, and on and on we could go... Does that mean I would give up on making a good apple pie? No Sir! One flop after another did dishearten me, and I wouldn't dare brag about my pies anymore. But finally the other day, something went right! I do hope it continues to go right! It's still not perfect, but it I was happy with it. In effort to preserve my creative compilation of recipes, I post them here. So, here is my newest: Apple Pie, Em's Way...
This pie is #glutenfree #cornfree #carrageenanfree #cinnamonfree #nutfree #dairyfree #gumfree #legumefree #annattofree #allergenfriendly #eggfree #organic #preservativefree #noaddedsugar




Apple Pie, Em's Way
You will need:
About 3 pounds or so of organic apples. I prefer Gala and Fuji combined.
1 1/2 or so of a cup of freshly milled brown rice flour. ***
1/2 teaspoon of Arm and Hammer baking soda.
1/2 teaspoon David's Kosher or other un-iodized salt that contains nothing but salt.
Somewhere around 1 1/2 cups of organic unsweetened applesauce. (I use Fresh Thyme or other store brand that does not contain any ingredients except apples.)
1/4 of a cup or so of California Olive Ranch extra virgin olive oil.
Clear Pyrex pie pan.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees. (Not necessary if using a toaster oven.) Peel, core, wash, and slice apples into quarters. Boil the apples with a small amount of filtered water until they are fork tender. Slightly mash with a serving spoon. Set aside for later. Mix flour, baking soda, and salt together, then add applesauce and 1/8 of a cup of olive oil. Mix well to combine. Add more or less applesauce to make a wet dough that easily spreads with a spoon. Add the other 1/8 of a cup of olive oil to the bottom of the pan spreading it out gently. Spread 2/3 of the dough into the pan bringing it about halfway up the sides and covering the entire bottom with about 1/4 inch dough. Add the slightly mashed boiled apples to the center of the pie, leaving about 3/4 of an inch of dough around the edge uncovered. Mound up to desired thickness. Add 1/4 of a cup or so of flour to the remainder of the batter making it workable. Taking about one tablespoon or so at a time, gently work it flat with your hands and place on top of the pie. Lay enough pieces to cover most of the top of the pie, leaving a few vent holes. Bake at 425 degrees until the bottom and sides are browned. This is one reason I prefer to use a clear pyrex pan, so I can see the bottom. It takes somewhere around 30 minutes. Watch carefully that it doesn't overcook. Let the finished pie sit for a few minutes before attempting to serve or it will fall apart if it is too hot. Enjoy and don't forget to leave me your comments on how it turned out for you and your family!

*** I freshly mill my flour using a Wondermill. I use a 1:1 ratio of organic long grain brown rice, and organic brown basmati rice. Both are Lundberg brand.

For a printable PDF download of this recipe, click on the Paypal buy now button below! Happy Baking!

Monday, October 29, 2018

A Gluten Free, Allergy Free Fall

When thinking of Fall, I really start to think about all the years I remember going to bonfires with our family and friends... hotdog roasts over an open fire...toasted marshmallows and S'mores... hot chocolate...and pumpkin pie! My mom made some really good pumpkin pie...and as a teenager, I could make a mean apple pie myself. (Actually, one of my pies sold at a fundraiser auction for $75 when I was 13! Crazy? I thought so, too.)
Well, a lot of these cool memories are over for me because of my allergies. But what about my gluten sensitive children? Will they ever experience these kind of memory making traditions? Will my son with a corn allergy ever get to taste a marshmallow? These are just a few of questions that run through my mind this time of year.
The key to success in this area is hard work and creativity! Many traditional recipes can be reproduced into a gluten free copies! Yes, they may have a slightly different texture, but it can be done. :) Fortunately, for those who are just avoiding gluten there are many premixed flour that work beautifully as substitutes.
For those of us with food allergies as well as gluten sensitivity, substituting is a little more complicated. Mixing your own flours becomes a necessity. Potato starch, tapioca starch, and freshly milled brown rice flour is my go to for legume free, corn free, nut free, gluten free, and gum free flour.
Do you have a favorite flour mix that you use as a substitute? Do you buy it pre-mixed, or mix it yourself? What is your favorite fall recipe? We would love to hear from you! (And it would be a chance for you to show off your gluten free skills!)
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

The Emotional Struggle of an Allergy and/or Gluten Free Diet

OK, it's that time of year...pumpkins, candy, apple cider...we all love the awesomeness of fall! But what most people don't understand is the torture that goes on inside the mind of someone with dietary restrictions! All these beautiful smells, and delicious looking food and drinks, that we are unable to have!!!! There are several solutions to this problem, including learning how to substitute flours, but for a moment, I just want to stand up for those of us with this problem by explaining to the world what we actually deal with on a daily basis!

You are walking through the grocery store, you smell the beautiful smell of cinnamon...Your mind automatically gets anxious because you know you are anaphylactically allergic to cinnamon...so you speed up your steps to get away from the smell you love that hates you. You are walking past the bakery to get to the meat and cheese section, when you get a whiff of fresh made cake, donuts, bread...You know there is probably a trace of gluten still airborne from the mixing and baking process that goes on in that open area... You remember all the times that you were sick for weeks from that trace amount of gluten you breathed in while hanging out near the bakery for a few minutes, just trying to get your shopping done... Your heart sinks because you are hungry, wishing you could have those delicious foods again.
You get to the cheese isle... your eyes quickly roam to find the cheese you are buying for your family, not yourself. You absolutely adore cheese, and really could use the protein and calcium found in it, but you know that if you eat it you will be sick for days... You just grab what your family needs and leave, trying not to spend too much time in that area.
You pass the meat counter...You see steaks, hamburger, pork chops, ham, fish...Your heart screams at you, as your mind constantly repeats (allergic, allergic, allergic!) Without hesitation, you pass on by.
The frozen vegetable isle is loaded with delicious choices. You take your time checking to see if there are any new ones, but all you can see that is safe is broccoli, kale...and that's it. You wonder if it will always be this way. You remember the days when you could have fresh corn on the cob, okra, or even green beans or peas...You long for the freedom you had then.
The canned food isle is a quick grab and passing for the only thing down there you can have is absolutely nothing...but the family can have pinto's so you grab a few cans and go.
You go through the rest of the isles picking up a few things here and there, mourning over all the delicious options that aren't options. You remember the days when you could have them. The cravings for healthy, filling, nutritious meals are severe about now. You are just about in tears, but you must look and act strong in front of your family...so you push on. The fake smile you wear hides the inner pain and frustration that is bottled up until that moment when you are alone to release it.
Finally, the last thing on your list, you grab some yogurt for the family. You know that without the yogurt your gluten free baking just won't be what it needs to be. You also know that you won't be able to have not even one bite of the goodies that you will be mixing up for your family. At the peak of frustration, you quickly check out and pay the hundreds of dollars for the few groceries you actually have been able to grab. You are relieved when you finally get into the car to head home, only to do the same thing again next week. 
You are so hungry by this time that you wish so badly that there was some kind of fast food or snack at a gas station that you could have, but instead you just have to deal with it till you get home. You know that there isn't anything safe.

So many people don't understand the emotional battle that those of us with multiple food allergies deal with. Most people say, "Oh, you are being overly careful." But what they don't know is all the hundreds of times when your body went into anaphylactic shock because you weren't careful enough. They haven't seen you doubled over in pain, and vomiting for hours because you ate gluten. They weren't there when you failed your exam because gluten made your mind so foggy you couldn't think straight in-spite of the weeks of study. And they haven't dealt with the extreme fatigue that brought you to depression...all because of Food Allergies and Gluten Sensitivity!

The BATTLE is REAL, Folks! You can't make these things up...and so many people suffer on a daily basis like this! We have to spread awareness! We must stand up for those who have Food Allergies, Celiac Disease, or Gluten Sensitivity! We must do our best to help others who are suffering to have their voice heard!
Do your part, whatever it may be, to get the word out!
Have a Happy, Healthy, Allergen Free, Gluten Free Day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Saturday, October 20, 2018

Gluten Free by Necessity

Are you like me? I am Gluten Free by Necessity! It's not a food preference, it's a need. I love gluten filled foods, they just hate me with a vengence that causes much pain and misery. I am so glad that one day my doctor suggested that I follow a gluten free diet. My life has changed for the better ever since that day 7 years ago. I am on a mission to share with the world what it means to have Celiac Disease, Gluten Sensitivity, and Food Allergies. They are real health problems, not made up or in someones mind. People really do suffer from these health issues. Lives are lost because of these health issues. Don't listen to the negative remarks that are trying to belittle those who deal with these problems, they are made out of ignorance. Let the truth prevail!
~Gluten Free Em~

#glutenfree #notafaddiet #RaiseAwareness #spreadtheword #savealife #GlutenFreeEm #GlutenSensitivityAwareness  #CeliacDiseaseAwareness #weallcanmakeadifference #doyourpart #promoteawareness

Below is the link to where you can buy one of the tote bags featured above for yourself!

https://teespring.com/gluten-free-by-necessity?tsmac=store&tsmic=gluten-free-em#pid=526&cid=101936&sid=front

Wednesday, October 10, 2018

What is Celiac Disease?

 Support Celiac Disease Awareness!!!
As you may have already noticed, many of my posts are to educate and spread the word to the world that Celiac Disease is real! Many people in this world suffer from Celiac Disease and simply don't know the reason for their baffling symptoms... The reason is, lack of knowledge among medical professionals, and people just accepting their symptoms instead of seeking help. Take time to educate yourself and others on the symptoms of Celiac Disease, and Gluten Sensitivity!!! It could be life changing...and dare I say, Life Saving!
Some symptoms listed by the Mayo Clinic....

  • Anemia, usually resulting from iron deficiency
  • Loss of bone density (osteoporosis) or softening of bone (osteomalacia)
  • Itchy, blistery skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)
  • Damage to dental enamel
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Headaches and fatigue
  • Nervous system injury, including numbness and tingling in the feet and hands, possible problems with balance, and cognitive impairment
  • Joint pain
  • Reduced functioning of the spleen (hyposplenism)
  • Acid reflux and heartburn
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Weight loss
  • Irritability
  • Short stature
  • Delayed puberty
  • Neurological symptoms, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, headaches, lack of muscle coordination and seizures
These are only a few of the possible symptoms...Some experience little to no symptoms, but experience serious results many years down the road. Spread the word about Celiac Disease!!! Gluten Free is not just a FAD, it saves lives.

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Spread Awareness!





Here at GlutenFreeEm.com, we strive to promote awareness to the reality of Celiac Disease, and Gluten Sensitivity. We create products that promote awareness kindly, and effectively; and they come in a wide variety of colors. Please take time to look at our Teespring Store and if you are an Amazon shopper, you can also find a few of our shirts, as well as our book! Here is the link to our Teespring Store!
Please consider purchasing and most importantly, wearing one of our awareness products to share with the world that food allergies, and food sensitivities exist! Be Bold! Speak Up! Tell the World!
~Gluten Free Em~


Tuesday, October 2, 2018

Be Positive About Your Diet

Have you ever felt like you were in this Gluten Free thing all alone? I get that way sometimes, but in reality we are part of a huge Gluten Free Family! All over the world there are others like us who have a limited diet because of health reasons. The "poor me attitude" is easy to acquire, but it only brings with it depressing thoughts, so be careful not to fall prey to it's trap!!! If you are struggling in this area, consider joining social media groups with others who are gluten free, or perhaps finding out if some of your neighbors are gluten free. Just communicating with others who deal with the same struggles can be all it takes to encourage and uplift us. We are doing the right thing in taking care of our bodies. We are not fad dieters, we are trying to stay healthy.
Believe in yourself! You are awesome! Hold your head up high, you deserve to feel good about yourself!
Live Happy, Healthy, and Gluten Free!
~Gluten Free Em~

Thursday, August 30, 2018

Product Recommendation: Golden Flaxseeds

My last product recommendation for this month is....
Golden Flaxseed!
This one wins over the regular brown flax because of its flavor. It gives the same texture when added to baked goods, and can still be used as an egg replacement when ground and mixed with water until goopy, but it tastes much better. It has a nutty flavor that I love so much.
I prefer to buy the whole flaxseeds and freeze them to keep them fresh. The ground ones usually go rancid fast. If at all possible buy from a store that refrigerates them. It is hard to find them where I live, so I usually order them online. The brand I trust it Bob's Red Mill. Other brands are out there but this one is my favorite.
Happy Baking!


If you order from Amazon, you can click directly on the above picture and it will take you directly to the product.
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free Day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Product Recommendation: Glutino Brand Wafers

When it comes to cravings, Chocolate might be the biggest for some of us. What about Chocolate with a crispy wafer inside!?! Yes, it's possible, and yes, it's gluten free!
Glutino is a brand that many of us trust for being strictly gluten free. That is all they make. So, cross contamination with gluten is not an issue with this brand. They do however use corn in some of their products, so heads up to all you parents of corn free kids...read the labels!
This treat is corn and gluten free, but does contain a small amount of dairy (milk). It is so crispy and chocolaty that you won't be able to just eat one, I promise! You may as well buy two boxes, because they don't last long, they are that good! They are one of those treats that you can feel good about letting your kids have. So, open a box, and share it with your loved ones!


Many Walmart stores sell them, Kroger, too. By clicking on the picture above you can go directly to Amazon and order your own at the best price. I use Amazon for a lot of what I buy, because it saves time and money.
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Friday, August 17, 2018

Celiac Disease, Gluten Sensitivity, and Food Allergy Awareness

For Some Of Us,Gluten Free Is NotA Fad, It's ANecessaryWay Of... Natural Tote Bag Front
Help promote Celiac Disease, Gluten Sensitivity, and Food Allergy Awareness!
Click on the picture above to be redirected to my products promoting awareness!

Let's tell the world that Celiac Disease, Gluten Sensitivity, and Food Allergies exist. So many people are being made fun of because of their gluten free diet. Some call it a fad diet, but for some of us it is A NECESSARY WAY OF LIFE! Yes, there are people out there who follow it just because it is popular, but others follow it because they have a life threatening allergy, an autoimmune disease like Celiac, or a severe Gluten Sensitivity that causes digestive damage, pain, inflammation, and many other horrible symptoms. It's not that we don't want to eat gluten, it's that we can't eat it! Eliminating your favorite foods can be stressful, discouraging, and downright hard...but we don't have a choice. Let's stand up and speak out for those who suffer with Celiac Disease, Gluten Sensitivity, and Food Allergies! Let's share the word with the world, so others can find the help that they so desperately need. Save a life...Send some hope...Speak positively...
Choose from tote bags, shirts, hoodies, and much more...Get the message across with positivity!
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Thursday, August 16, 2018

Product Recommendation: Glutino Cookies

So, I have to say, graham crackers have always been my weakness. I no longer can consume them because of developing new allergies, but my family loves these. They smell soooo good!!! I mean, awesome!!!
I open the bag slowly so not to spill any out...I get a good whiff of the delicious aroma.. and Baby, I'm hooked!
A must try for anyone who loves graham cracker flavor! Don't worry if your kids see you eating kid shaped cookies...it doesn't really matter. They will think you are cool, so just pop a few in your mouth and then offer them some!


Yes, they are fun...and they are gluten free!
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Our new line of T-Shirts promoting Celiac Disease, and Gluten Sensitivity Awareness

Please check out our new T-Shirt designs to speak out for those of us who suffer when exposed to gluten. Celiac disease, Gluten sensitivity, and Food Allergy Awareness is what we are aiming for. Please consider partnering with us by buying and wearing one of our t-shirts. We must stand up, speak out, and let others know that "For some of us, Gluten Free is not a fad, it is not a fraud, it's a necessary way of life."


"Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free day!"
~Gluten Free Em~


Thursday, August 9, 2018

Q&A: Leaky Gut

Q: I have multiple food allergies, including Gluten sensitivity. Someone mentioned to me that I may have leaky gut. What is this and how can I treat it if I have it?
A: Leaky gut is a problem that can actually cause food allergies. It is usually caused by using antibiotics and/or steroid medications. It is, as the name suggests, a problem of the gut. Namely, an imbalance of gut flora (bacteria) that are naturally present in all our guts. When there is an imbalance, and the bad bacteria outnumber the good bacteria, you get inflammation and digestive issues like heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, etc. If the issue is not treated, then the stomach lining, and intestinal lining can begin to have damage. The mucosal lining of the gut protects it from damage, but this imbalance destroys or seriously damages the mucosal lining. As a result, food is not properly digested, and larger than normal proteins from the food are allowed to seep into the blood stream through the stomach or intestinal lining. The result is an immune response, ranging from fatigue to anaphylaxis
There is a way to repair it! Probiotics are your best friend. Get one that is a minimum of 20 billion cultures and take it every day. Find yourself a alternative medicine doctor who specializes in leaky gut. They can test you to see if you have it, and can guide you through the process of healing. It is a very big issue in the lives of many Americans and can be the source of adult onset allergies to food.

Tuesday, August 7, 2018

Product Recommendation: Pamela's Pancake and Baking mix

When I first went gluten free, I would shop at Kroger and find all kinds of gluten free treasures...My favorite was the Pamela's Baking and Pancake Mix. Wow, what a gluten free treat! This mix can be used as a substitute in many regular recipes! I fell in love with this product, and totally recommend it.

It does contain buttermilk solids, almond, flour, and xanthan gum, so it is not safe for everyone. But if you can have these ingredients, you will be in for a special treat! Make cakes, donuts, biscuits, pie crust, pancakes, waffles, and much more with this complete blend of gluten free flour!
Happy Baking!
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Q&A: Natural Flavors

Q: Is the words natural flavors on an ingredients list always a source of gluten?
A: No! It does warrant some caution, though, and you should call the manufacturer to make sure that it is indeed gluten free. It is a way for them to hide their flavorings. Natural flavors could be a spice blend, or any form of flavor that is derived from some natural food source.
Got a question for Gluten Free Em? Message her, or contact her through her website, www.glutenfreeem.com. Your question might be featured next on her Facebook page!

Monday, July 30, 2018

What is in Your Medicine Cabinet?

Did you know that a lot of the prescription drugs that Americans take contain gluten? And countless other medications cause inflammation of the gut, or an imbalance of gut flora. Antibiotics and steroids are the known for this. Other medications that are used for anxiety, depression, seizures, etc can also create a chemical imbalance in the body that leads to immune issues.
Only take what you have to take, and look for an all natural alternative whenever possible. Your body deserves only the best!
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free Day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Got a question for Em? Leave a comment, use the contact form on the desktop version of the website, or message her at her Facebook page, www.glutenfreeem.com!

Saturday, July 28, 2018

Maltodextrin ~ A Debated Topic

The word maltodextrin is one of debate in the gluten free world. Many say to avoid this ingredient like the plague...some say it is safe. Well to expound a little on this subject, maltodextrin can be made from many things. Wheat, corn, and tapioca being the most common medians it is derived from, make it usually unsafe for gluten free, corn free people like myself and my son. But if there is a product containing this ingredient that you are very curious to try, call the manufacturer and ask them to check and see what it is derived from. Many times I have called and found that it was derived from tapioca, a safe gluten free starch.
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Does Wheat Free Mean Gluten Free? Q&A

Question: Is there a difference between wheat free and gluten free? I mean, gluten is a protein found in wheat, right?

Answer: Actually, there are several grains in the family with wheat that also contain gluten. So, to answer your question, no, wheat free doesn’t mean gluten free. Something that is gluten free will not contain any wheat, barley, rye, or sometimes even oats. It won't be processed on the same equipment with one of these, and should be tested before it is certified gluten free. Many times we find gluten free on a label because the product is naturally gluten free but not tested. Other times it says gluten free and then mentions that it was produced on the same equipment with wheat. So, never trust the gluten free words alone, look at ingredients, look for other hints, and when in doubt, call the manufacturer!
#glutenfree #questionandanswer

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Lemon Thyme for Relief from Congestion

Lemon thyme is one of my favorite herbs. It has soooo many uses, but I will only take time to mention a few. The most powerful use of this fragrant herb is relief from chest congestion. We grow this wonderful herb in our garden every year and dry some of it for use during the winter months when colds and flu seem to be everywhere. Because of its awesome antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antioxidant properties, it is very useful when fighting a respiratory infection of any type. Simply boil a few cups of water, put some fresh or dried lemon thyme leaves in (I use about 2 cups water to 1 tablespoon of thyme), let it seep till the water starts to change color. Add a teaspoon or so of raw local honey, then sip on it to relieve congestion. Also adding it to a big pot of boiling water, and then placing a towel over your head to create a steam tent, you can breath in the fumes and find amazing relief! It opens up and moisturizes the lungs. It is my go to for asthma as well.
Another way to use this herb that is very beneficial is for anxiety or tension relief. Feeling tense can come and go, but when it prevents you from sleeping, or gets so severe that your stomach feels funny, maybe it's time to do something about it. Don't worry there are many things you can do that can relieve tension without taking a drug. I personally have tried and found it to be true that the oil from the leaves of a lemon thyme plant can relieve tension. Just take some fresh leaves off of your plant, crush them between your fingers until the oil is released, and then rub the oil behind your ears or where ever you can smell it. I like to use it behind my ears as my ears are usually related to the feelings I am experiencing. It has calmed vertigo for me several times, relieved nausea, and calmed me down. I am sure it can be used in more serious ways if purchased as an essential oil, but I have not as of yet needed to try it in that way.
Of course, the most logical way to use this powerful herb is to season or enhance food dishes. I love the lemony taste it gives, as I am allergic to lemons themselves and can not enjoy them. I have personally used it to season fish, lamb, and several vegetable dishes. It has a mild peppery taste with a citrus hint. It smells so much like lemon that you may be fooled at first. It works well with seafood.
This herb can also be used to thin blood, fight yeast infections, lower blood pressure, regulate blood sugar, relieve indigestion, relieve bloat, encourage digestion and elimination, and treat sinus infections. Seriously, there are soooo many ways to use this wonderful herb. If you haven't yet, you should consider adding it to your indoor or outdoor herb garden!
Here's to the medicine God created--natural herbs, food, vitamins, and minerals.
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free Day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Van's Honey Crunch

Here is my product recommendation for this week! It is delicious and filling, low in sugar, and high in whole grains. It is gluten free, corn free, dairy free and awesome! It is available at many stores like Kroger, Walmart, and health food stores. I prefer buying online by bulk to save $$$. Enjoy!


Oregano--the Natural Antibiotic

Did you know that a simple herb you could be growing in a pot right in your home could hold the keys to unlock you from the prison of constant urinary track infections or yeast infections?
Did you know that most of us already eat a little bit of it each time we make or order Italian food?
What is this miraculous little herb, you ask? It's oregano, also known as the pizza herb.
Oregano has natural antioxidant properties that can really give your immune system a boost! Not only is it tasty in it's natural form, but when added to food at the end of cooking, or right onto your plate, it can really give your body a push in the right direction. It works best when used in it's fresh, natural form. You can take the leaves of the oregano plant, chop them, and add them to your favorite dish.
Not only does this little plant have antioxidant powers, but it is also a natural anti-fungal! I don't know about you, but this was a big one for me. For years I suffered with candida overgrowth in the form of thrush, dandruff, and in other unmentionable places...yes, there, too. No matter what I tried it would always come back. I finally won the battle when I incorporated raw oregano leaves into my normal diet. The results were amazing! It tasted good, too. I simply ditched the powder form of the herb, and used fresh oregano.
Since then I have experimented with some of the other claims oregano holds. I learned it truly is anti-inflammatory in nature. It lowers blood sugar. It thins the blood (which in turn lowers blood pressure). It helps with menstrual pain, muscle aches, and headaches. It helps my body flush out urinary track infections without the use of prescription antibiotics. And whenever I feel a cold coming on, I reach for the oregano to give my immune system a boost. It helps me to find some relief when having an asthma attack, and helps break up the congestion bought on by colds and allergies.
Got you interested? Try it for yourself! Fresh oregano can be found at most grocery stores. It can also be potted and grown in your kitchen for fresher than fresh flavor! Experiment with it to see how much your body can tolerate. I usually use about a tablespoon or two of fresh chopped oregano with wonderful results. Some may need more or less depending on size and weight.
Here's to better health....
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free Day!
~Gluten Free Em~

Thursday, April 26, 2018

Nature's Substitute For NSAIDs (also known as...Ibuprofen, aspirin, Motrin, etc.)

You've been doing some research. You found that heavy use of medications can wreck your body. You learned it can create more disease down the road, but you are desperately trying to treat your high blood pressure, headaches, joint pain, etc. You know there must be another way than popping pill after pill. Just look at the list of possible side affects on the label. I'm telling you what you already know...you need other options! So what do you do? You can't function properly without some kind of relief!
There are so many options out there, even for people like me who have multiple food and chemical sensitivities! I stopped taking NSAIDs like Ibuprofen, aspirin, Motrin, and all their off brands when my body decided after 10 plus years of regular use that it wouldn't except it anymore. I used it for crippling menstrual cramps, severe headaches, joint pain, swelling, low grade fevers... I used it at least 7 days out of the month but usually much more. At that point in my life, I began to have swelling of the throat and difficulty breathing anytime that I tried to take it, so I quit.
Out of desperation I looked for other things to help with the pain. Thank God, I came across some information that told me garlic in its raw form taken orally can lower blood pressure, block pain, reduce inflammation, kill bacteria and viruses, and thin your blood. At first, I was skeptical. I mean, like, everyone uses it to cook with, but can something so little really have such a powerful affect? All I had in the house at that time was dried garlic powder. It didn't do the job, just left my breath smelling worse than ever. But I wasn't ready to give up just yet. The next payday, when we went shopping, I picked up a bulb of fresh raw garlic. That night, I tried it as my headache was worse than ever. I minced some up and put it on a piece of buttered gluten free bread...The results were amazing!!!! Not only did it help the headache, but I slept better then usual that night (probably because it lowered my blood pressure).
For the last 7 years, this has been my go to for pain relief. It also helps with congestion if you are fighting a cold or asthma. The only side affect that can sometimes be a problem is it lowers my blood pressure. (I fight with chronic low blood pressure anyway.) And of course, the bad breath. :) LOL. Which can be fixed with peppermint oil, or chewing gum.
Are you tired of popping pills for high blood pressure, headaches, pain, and swelling??? Give garlic a try! (If you are currently taking medication for blood pressure, start with a small amount of garlic to see how your body responds. Your medication dosage will probably need reduced, but always consult your doctor first as it must be done gradually.)
I am not a doctor...this is for informational purposes only, and I can not be held responsible for any adverse effects caused by consumption of garlic.
~Gluten Free Em~


Tuesday, April 24, 2018

Ginger The Natural Remedy For Tummy Trouble

One thing all of us gluten sensitive people have in common is tummy trouble. Belly pains that can cause you to double over, acid reflux, nausea, bloating....
It's true, we have touchy tummies. Even the smallest trace of gluten can leave some of us feeling really bad for weeks.
How do you treat this problem without medicines that further upset our sensitive body chemistry? Well, long before medications were developed, back when life was simpler, there were herbs and spices used as medicine. God designed the perfect solution to tummy trouble when He created ginger!
Ginger is a strong spice, when consumed raw it acts as a natural relief for indigestion, nausea, bloat, gas, etc. It is naturally gluten free and can be juiced with other fruits and veggies to make a great anti inflammatory drink! Say bye bye to tummy trouble and hello to relief!  Ginger is my best friend.
~Gluten Free Em~

Wednesday, April 4, 2018

What grains/flours are gluten free?


When I was first going gluten free, my biggest question was what kind of flours are naturally gluten free?
The answer is detailed. But I will assure you, there are a lot of choices out there. Some are delicious, some are not.

Almond Flour
Amaranth Flour
Arrowroot Starch
Brown Rice Flour
Buckwheat Flour
Chickpea Flour
Coconut Flour
Cornmeal/Corn Flour
Fava Bean Flour
Millet Flour
Navy Bean Flour
Oat Flour (If particular labeled and certified GF)
Peanut Flour
Potato Flour
Potato Starch
Quinoa Flour
Sorghum Flour
Soy Flour
Sweet Rice Flour
Tapioca Flour
White Rice Flour
And any seeds that are naturally gluten free that you want to grind into meal...I use pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, and have in the past used sunflower seeds.

This is not a comprehensive list...other flours may be out there particularly in other cultures that I am not aware of.

So which ones work the best? I have found that a combination of flours works best. I like to mix potato starch, tapioca starch, almond meal, and white and brown rice. These have proven to be the best combination for me in the past. Pamela's Baking and Pancake Mix is a great combination of these with their own signature buttermilk solids and xanthan gum added. (Check them out here.) If you have a corn allergy like me, this probably won't work because of the xanthan gum being derived from corn. I used to use it before I developed the corn allergy, and it was phenomenal!
There are many different mixes on the market today that I have yet to try because of the xanthan gum. Most of the Bob's Red Mill mixes I've tried and they were good. (Check them out here.) Just be sure that you call and make sure that it is processed in a gluten free facility if your sensitivity is severe.
Check this out from America's Test Kitchen
Do you have a favorite flour or blend of flours that you would like to share with us? Comment and let us know!!!! We would love to hear from you!
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free Day!
~Gluten Free Em~


Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Is toxicity the problem?

Life is always changing...new jobs, new homes, new baby, new neighborhood... Hopefully, for some of us that doesn't mean a new allergy!:( But as much as we dislike the thought, it can become a reality.
What is it that causes some of us to develop adverse reaction to foods we ate all our lives? What is it about conventional, non-organic foods that cause asthma when you can eat the same food in its organic form without any problems?
I've been researching this very subject for many years. The most common idea is that some of us have difficulty with the bodies natural detoxification methods not working correctly. This could be from a genetic defect, a nutritional difficiency, or a build up from toxic exposure to chemicals. There are many possible causes, but unfortunately no quick fixes.
What does this mean? Well, I believe that many gluten intolerances are caused by an unhealthy digestive system, resulted from a build of toxicity, and heavy metals from the foods we eat and our environment.
We can't live in a bubble and avoid all the negative effects of toxicity. We are going to be exposed to car exhaust, fertilizers, cleaners, soaps, etc...but at least we can try our best to limit this exposure and spend time out of doors in a natural setting with trees and fresh air (the mountains :). Life goes on, but little choices we make will make a difference.
I am not against vehicles, by the way...I love big SUVs and cool trucks, as well as Ford Mustangs with big engines, and please no convertibles. I think you are exposed to more toxins by riding a bike down a busy road than you would be in an enclosed vehicle. Like I said, we cannot live in a bubble.
Grow your own vegies if you can, or buy organic.  Use glass and not plastic containers when possible.  Avoid driving down a busy road with your windows open. Forget about treating your lawn, its green enough. Don't use traditional cleaners, opt in for natural products, or do the old vinegar thing. There are lots of ways we can limit our exposure even for those of us who live in a city. The key is to do our best without stressing about it. Stress is toxic, too, you know. Live life in balance and enjoy each day!
Have a Happy, Healthy, Gluten Free day!
~EM~