Healthy Tips for Feeling Better in the New Year … Gluten & Allergen Free
by Kathleen Reale
Some time ago, I came across an interesting article in my Sunday paper’s insert. Dr. Oz, the host of The Dr. Oz Show, co-author of “You: The Owner’s Manual” and professor at Columbia University, wrote an article detailing the top healthy habits everyone should embrace to jumpstart wellness.
As I was reading the article I realized that all of the tips Dr. Oz discussed could be applied and savored by everyone that is on a gluten-free or allergen-free diet. More important, applying his tips to a gluten and allergen-free life style, will not only make our bodies healthier, but also improve our attitudes, behaviors and outlooks in regards to our special diets. Read on for my takes on some of Dr. Oz’s tips for healthy living, and how they apply to the gluten and allergen free lifestyle:
Don’t Skip Meals: I know, I know… it can be tough to find a gluten or allergen free meal at a coffee or sub shop. That is why it is so important that we always think ahead, pack our lunches and stock up our briefcases, backpacks and glove compartments with “emergency” nutritious snacks.
Ditch Extreme Diets: A gluten or allergen-diet is a requirement, not a choice for many people. But realize that getting diagnosed with celiac disease or food allergies does not mean that your diet has to radically change, thanks to the many allergen free and gluten free items now available. Look for substitutions and your new diet will not seem as extreme.
Savor Every Bite: Dr. Oz tells his readers to “savor and appreciate each bite”. Getting diagnosed with celiac disease or a food allergy sometimes gets you caught up in what you can’t eat, that you often forget the wonderful things that you can eat.
Become a Pill Popper: Many people that have celiac disease have vitamin deficiencies, due to absorption issues. Make this the year to check-in with your doctor and find out if you need to take any vitamins or supplements on a daily basis.
Throw Out Your Scale: When I started on my gluten-free diet, I gained weight as my body started to get healthier. My first response was panic, until I remember that the gluten-free diet was healing my body, and weight gain was to be expected. I now concentrate on eating a balanced diet, and set realistic goals when it comes to keeping my weight at a healthy and manageable level.
Eat Well, then Eat What You Like: This tidbit of advice from Dr. Oz has reminded me that although I should strive to eat a well-balanced diet, eating gluten-free can also include a slice of a decadent flourless chocolate cake every so often!
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