Whew...that has been a long time.

Have i got lots of stuff to post.

My life now:

• Lactose Intolerant Not even lactaid likes me these days (No Dairy)
• Increased Weight 
• My thyroid still sucks
• Diabetic (No Sugar)
• and now I am considered as having a "Non-Celiac Gluten Intolerance" what once was a 'sensitivity' has turned intolerant. (No Wheat)
• And still a mom to a wonderful 4 year old sour patch kid

I got a case of the sads. Rather, I've had a case of the sads...

I actually love the Chex GF cereal but it has BHT as an added preservative.

BHT is no bueno.  So I have to say farewell to Chex.  I need to keep it clean as possible.

Im hoping they remove it sooner than later so I can enjoy Chex once again.

Check it out:
http://cen.acs.org/articles/93/i8/General-Mills-Remove-Antioxidant-BHT.html

Hi Stranger.

It's been a very long time. I will be posting soon.

Stay tuned!

Food Review: FAGE 2% Yogurt

On their website FAGE states:

FAGE TOTAL Yogurt is 100% natural. It contains no added sweeteners, thickeners or preservatives. We do not use powder milk, powder cream or powder protein in FAGE, just raw milk, raw cream and live active cultures which come together for a naturally blissful taste experience. In line with our All Natural approach to yogurt making, our milk and cream supply comes from farmers who have pledged not to treat their cows with rBGH*. FAGE is an excellent source of protein due to its unique straining process. Vegetarians can eat FAGE TOTAL and is also suitable for diabetics, pregnant women and people on gluten-free diets. It can also be used to cook with in your favorite recipes since it will not separate in high heat.

FAGE Total Yogurt is a good choice for those who are watching their weight. Skimmed yogurt contains approximately 38 calories, as opposed to an egg with 80 calories, 132 calories for a medium apple, 100 for a boiled potato, 230 for a portion of grilled chicken, and 126 for 100g of tuna in water. While plain yogurt and milk have the same nutritional value and the same number of calories, yogurt is more filling. In addition, yogurt can replace foods such as fresh cream, mayonnaise and sour cream, that have a much higher number of calories, thus making it easier to control weight.

And I believe them.  It's that good.  I like the 2% Honey the best!  I've tried the Peach one and normally I LOVE peach yogurt, but it wasn't as exciting.

I learned something new today.  Instead of trying to stick my spoon in the lil' cup of honey and add to the yogurt, this picture i found today, let's me know there's another option. =)

Digging Deeper into what's in our foods and labeling

What's really in your food and what's it mean on your label:

GPO Access - National Archives and Records Administration: (pulled 9/7/10)
http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr;rgn=div5;view=text;node=21%3A2.0.1.1.2;idno=21;sid=64fa2cdef4ee54e80414c2f297540271;cc=ecfr


FDA: http://www.fda.gov/Food/default.htm
regarding Natural Flavoring: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=101.22

It's all in the Butter!

Literally.

I've been reading labels more and more lately.  Me and my cousin were shopping and I was thinking (although the plan is to cut butter out) I can use it sparingly.

NOTE: Links were pulled on 9/7/10.

Smart Balance Ingredients (approx 19 ingredients)
Smart Balance Original: Natural Oil Blend (palm fruit, soybean, fish, canola and olive oils), water, plant sterols; contains less than 2% of salt, sorbitan esters of fatty acids, monoglycerides of vegetable fatty acids, natural and artifical flavors, TBHQ (to preserve freshness), potassium sorbate, lactic acid, soy lecithin, vitamin B12, Vitamin E acetate, Vitamin B6, beta carotene (color), Vitamin A palmitate, calcium disodium EDTA, Vitamin D3.
   
Earth Balance Ingredients:  although it says Non-GMO, it' has stuff...and soy stuff. (approx 8 ingredients)
Earth Balance Original: Expeller-pressed natural oil blend (soybean, palm fruit, canola and olive), filtered water, pure salt, natural flavor (derived from corn, no msg, no alcohol, no gluten) soy protein, soy lecithin, lactic acid (non-dairy, derived from sugar beets), and naturally extracted annatto for color.  Contains soy.

Land O'Lakes Salted Butter:  (2 Ingredients)
Sweet Cream, Salt

Land O'Lakes Unsalted Butter: (2 Ingredients)
Sweet Cream, Natural Flavoring

Land O'Lakes Light Butter:  (approx 14 Ingredients)
Butter (Cream, Salt), Water, Food Starch-Modified, Contains Less Than 2% of Tapioca Maltodextrin, Salt, Vegetable Mono And Diglycerides, Lactic Acid, Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate (Preservatives), PGPR (emulsifier), Xanthan Gum, Natural Flavor, Vitamin A Palmitate, Beta Carotene (color).

Kerrygold Ingredients
Kerrygold Salted Sweet Cream Butter: Pasteurized Cream, Salt (2 Ingredients)
Kerrygold Unsalted Butter: Cultured Pasteurized Cream (1 Ingredient)

This is kinda scary.  'I Can't Believe It's Not Butter' doesn't show (from what I can view) any ingredients.  It says it's a blend of soybean and canola oils.  I even went to thier parent owner Unilever.
Wait, I found a picture: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jdickert/2383258134/  It was taken on 4/2/2008 so
I'm not sure if they've changed their ingredients but here is what it's looking like:
Ingredients (from what I can read): (approx 14 Ingredients)
Water, Vegetable Oil blend (Liquid soybean oil, partially hydrogenated soybean oil), natural sweet cream buttermilk?, salt, gelatin, vegetable mono and diglycerides, natural soy lectin (potassium sorbate, calcium disodium EDTA) used to protect quality, lactic acid, natural and artificial flavors, Vitamin A (something?), Beta Carotene (for color).
Or you can check out wikipedia (9/7/10) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Can't_Believe_It's_Not_Butter!

IMHO, I will stick with Kerrygold. In the event I accidently pick Salted vs Unsalted I won't have to worry about having 'Natural Flavoring' in my butter.  What is Natural Flavoring? Isn't it all supposed to be natural?

Per the FDA, here is what Natural Flavoring consists of:  http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=101.22

 or you can read the GPO Access, National Archives and Records Adminstration's site.

What do 300 Calorie Meals Look Like?

This is somewhat helpful.  I remember a long time ago seeing a book at Barnes and Nobles that had pictures of food with the calories.  Plain and Simple.  I haven't seen anything like it since.

I'm sometimes a Visual learner, so this may come in handy.

http://www.diet-blog.com/07/what_do_300_calorie_meals_look_like.php (9/7/2010)

Daily Mile

I just entered my progress for the last 2 days.  Then i looked at my previous history.

I did 13 miles in June.  That was that 2 week period i worked out.

I've done 3 so far, now I need to surpass my previous month log. 

Challenge #2 in 2010

Remember that lil' o'weight challenge recently where I lost 20lbs and won?

Well, right after that I ate gluten.  I ate all the normal foods, fast, homemade, bought etc.  I gained about 4-5 lbs I believe.  Yes, in only 1 week.  The thing that really sucks for my body is once i stray from being Gluten Free, my weight comes back with a vengence.  It must miss me. 

So we started a second challenge.  Some returning competitors and some new.  Funny thing is, you think I'd get back to being 100% GF and drop the weight.  I kinda did but not really.  That same morning, I had a Sausage Egg McMuffin w/Iced coffee and hash browns.  Last night I had a slice of pizza and hot wings at my aunts.  The other day for lunch I went and had a burger from Five Guys and a Iced Caramel Macchiato.  DAMAGE!

I did start walking and went to the track after work.  I've been going with my cousin.  He's into working out so I know he won't tell me, 'I'm tired or I'm hungry, let's eat instead and workout harder tomorrow'. Because that never happens. The workout part.  I tend to say ok and give in or look for excuses when I'm feeling lazy. 

I'll have to post an update on http://www.dailymile.com/ on what I've been doing so I can keep track.

I also found out that I have 3 free training sessions at my local gym.  San Jose Athletic Club.  I love it there but haven't made it a good habit to go as much as I should.

I also need to start my squats and build muscle early on before the challenge ends on Nov 1st.  Muscle weighs more than fat, so our deal is, for each pound you gain, you pay $2.00 or if you don't want to weigh in, you pay a flat $5.00 fee.  The pot right now is at $800 i believe.  We have our 1st weigh in Sept 9th.

My old daily routine included 300 situps, 5-9 miles/day and 60 squats (20 Kick, 20 Prisoner and 20 Sumo).

This article inspired me on adding my squats back in because my cousin just had surgery on her ACL & Miniscus.  http://www.adamringler.com/coaching/lets-keep-our-female-athletes-squatting

I have been told I have tight hamstrings.  And not tight as in a lyric a rapper might tell you.

Happy Challenging!

Recipe: Agua Fresca

Agua Fresca

Well not exactly a recipe, but more like expirement and see. =)

My friend/neighbor next door brought me over some fresh cut watermelon.  It looked good, but I personally have not really liked the taste or texture of it.  But i'll drink an agua fresca!  Ques eso? (or did i just spell Queso?)

It's fresh water made with fruit.  I posted earlier about a Cucumber Juice.

Since the blender was sitting oh so lonely on the counter, I put the watermelon in it, added a little water and some agave nectar.  Also some frozen organic strawberries and a few sprigs of fresh mint.  Blend, blend, blend and double sieve.  I had to double sieve it twice because of the frothy watermelon hid the seeds from the strawberries.

That's it.  Simple.

Recipe: Cucumber Juice

My Aunt Delia made this at a BBQ once and I was hooked.  At first I didn't want to try it.  Usually I have cucumbers on my eyes, in my salad or with lemon and tapatio.  Although I've always wanted to try a cucumber sandwich.  You know the ones you see on TV at some fancy reception with the crust cut off.  Of course it'd be Gluten Free bread. =)

I called my Aunt because halfway while seeding the cucumbers I realized, I don't know how to make this. Did she leave the peel on? Did she seed it? So I called.

We must cook the same.  Without measuring because here is what she said:

Get 1 1/2 - 2 cucumbers, peel them, stick them in a blender with a jar of water and sieve.  Add mint, sugar and lemon to make it cooler.

Okay.  I'm not sure how much a jar equals to, but I had peeled about 5 cucumbers and seeded them.

So i had 7 cucumbers, a big jug of water.

I blended the peeled cucumbers with some water.  Then i double sieved it to get the pulp out. 
I blended a second time but added some mint, too much lemon (use 1, i used 2) and Agave Nectar (suit to your tastebuds).  Sieved again and stored in a water jug with ice cubes.

Im not clear on the benefits other than it tastes really good, refreshing.  Don't let the greenish color fool you.  It's good.  Although my aunt's is way better.  I will sip on this today.

Food Review: Redbridge Beer - Anheuser-Busch

When I started GF, I was told to cut out Alcohol.  It made this lifestyle seem even harder!  I'm not a beer drinker per say, but once in a while I do like a beer.  I prefer Wine or Vodka, maybe Sailor Jerry. 

I was confused at first why it was on my 'No' list.  I'm sure it has something to do with empty calories and all that. 

I realized that beer is made with wheat. DUH! So all beers as I knew it, were out of the question.

I went to dinner one night at Willow Street Wood Fire Pizza and I seen on their wall they noted they had GF beer.  I ordered one and it tasted like regular beer to me.

I found they carry it at Beverages & More and at Whole Foods.  Some restaurants also now that GF is coming out into the world more and more.

So...this is the beer for me if I want one.  I tried another brand from Whole Foods and it was like a thick gross stout.  Not my preference at all.

So, enjoy the weekend with a GF beer! =)

Speaking of Additives and Preservatives

Here are some links to view what your truly putting into your body when eating processed food.

DYE and Health Effects: http://www.feingold.org/effects.html

Additives to Avoid: "E is for Additives" http://www.feingold.org/E-numbers.html

CNN's Common Food Additives (Chart shows Additive Name, Description, Used In, Purpose and Side Effects): http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/indepth.food/additives/table.html

Health Food Safety regarding Additives: http://ag.arizona.edu/pubs/health/foodsafety/az1082.html

Food Review: Chex

APB: If you see the Chocolate Chex....let me know. I want a box or two.  I can't find that flavor ANYWHERE!

My cousin found this at Safeway and was excited when I came home and said: "Look, Cuz, this cereal is GF!"  =)

I tried it and liked it.  I believe I should stay away from cereals that have

Honey Nut (love it) but I should be staying away from the ingrediants listed: Sugar, Brown Sugar Syrup.
Chocolate (mmm) and the Cinnamon both have: Sugar, Frutcose =(

All these cereals seem to have BHT added to it to preserve freshness.  (I just learned this a minute ago, while reading the ingrediants).  Umm...it says that is primarily used as an antioxidant food additive, which is also used in costmetics, pharmecuticals, jet fuels, rubber, petroleum products, electrical transformer oil and embalming fluid! Embaling fluid.  wow.  I'm preserving my internal organs a cell at a time aren't I? 

GOODNESS. well, this just killed my appetite for this. I will stick with my faithful Gorilla Munch.

06/09/2015 NOTE: I updated another post with information that chex will be working on removing BHT in their cereal!!!! http://cen.acs.org/articles/93/i8/General-Mills-Remove-Antioxidant-BHT.html

Food Review: Bob's Red Mill GF Pancake Mix

Bob looks like he should be painting pictures of the ocean like the dude from PBS or something nautical.  Ever since Whole Foods doesn't carry the brand I really liked, I've been skeptical on spending money on other brands to just have them sit in my cupboard for 10 years (okay more like a year and it's one of the brands listed at the end of this post).

Well I said, Bob, I always see you here in the market so let's do this.

I did and it worked out!  I made some GF Banana Pancakes last week and they tasted lovely.  I used Agave Nectar of course as my syrup.  I didn't add oil though (even if it said a teaspoon or so).

Follow their directions to make the batter but here is what I've learned.  Wait about 3 minutes after you've mixed to let it stand and so some magical stuff that it's suppose to do (so i read on the internet).  Then add 1 smashed banana (no peel, duh), a teaspoon of good REAL Vanilla Extract and a dash of cinnamon.  That's my secret.  If I have Macadamia Nuts, I would chop them up nice and add for a lil' crunch.  Serve with Agave Nectar (cheapest at Trader Joe's).

Other Brands I've tried
Arrowhead Mills - ummm I'll pass.  I tried once and it just wasn't the same. bleech.
365 (I want to say but not sure) - this one brand was the best.  The batter and taste were great, but Whole Foods doesn't carry it anymore and I'm sad.

Food Review: Quinoa

Okay, this is not necessarily a food review but this is more of a 'what is Quinoa'.  However, I do love eating Quinoa.  I tried the Red Quinoa and it wasn't doing nothing but making my tastebuds yearn for mouthwash.  I didn't like it.  But the regular (white) Quinoa is really good.  I cook mine with plain water or chicken broth/stock.  Sometimes I buy the Trader Joe's Brand Fire Roasted Peppers & Onions and stick 1/4 cup in the boiling water to flavor and cook with the Quinoa.  Excellent!

From Winkipedia (6/16/10 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinoa )
Quinoa (pronounced /ˈkiːnoʊ.ə/ or /kwɨˈnoʊ.ə/, Spanish quinua, from Quechua kinwa), a species of goosefoot (Chenopodium), is a grain-like crop grown primarily for its edible seeds. It is a pseudocereal rather than a true cereal, or grain, as it is not a member of the grass family. As a chenopod, quinoa is closely related to species such as beets, spinach, and tumbleweeds. Its leaves are also eaten as a leaf vegetable, much like amaranth, but the commercial availability of quinoa greens is currently limited.

Nutritional value
Quinoa was of great nutritional importance in pre-Columbian Andean civilizations, being secondary only to the potato, and was followed in importance by maize. In contemporary times, this crop has become highly appreciated for its nutritional value, as its protein content is very high (12%–18%). Unlike wheat or rice (which are low in lysine), quinoa contains a balanced set of essential amino acids for humans, making it an unusually complete protein source among plant foods.[4] It is a good source of dietary fiber and phosphorus and is high in magnesium and iron. Quinoa is gluten-free and considered easy to digest. Because of all these characteristics, quinoa is being considered a possible crop in NASA's Controlled Ecological Life Support System for long-duration manned spaceflights.[4]

Preperation
Quinoa has a light, fluffy texture when cooked, and its mild, slightly nutty flavor makes it an alternative to white rice or couscous.

Vegetables and seasonings can also be added to make a wide range of dishes. Chicken or vegetable stock can be substituted for water during cooking, adding flavor. It is also suited to vegetable pilafs, complementing bitter greens like kale.


Quinoa can serve as a high-protein breakfast food mixed with honey, almonds, or berries; it is also sold as a dry product, much like corn flakes.

Quinoa flour can be used in wheat-based and gluten-free baking. For the latter, it can be combined with sorghum flour, tapioca, and potato starch to create a nutritious gluten-free baking mix. A suggested mix is three parts quinoa flour, three parts sorghum flour, two parts potato starch, and one part tapioca starch. Quinoa flour can be used as a filling for chocolate.

Quinoa may be germinated in its raw form to boost its nutritional value. Germination activates its natural enzymes and multiplies its vitamin content.[6] In fact, quinoa has a notably short germination period: Only 2–4 hours resting in a glass of clean water is enough to make it sprout and release gases, as opposed to, e.g., 12 hours overnight with wheat. This process, besides its nutritional enhancements, softens the grains, making them suitable to be added to salads and other cold foods.

Almost at my 1st halfway mark *update*

**Update #2: I did it.  Today we 'weighed-out' and I did it.  I lost the 1lb and officially at the 20lb mark. So from Monday til today, I've lost 3lbs in 4 days.  Now I will work on my next 20.  I'm waiting for one more person to 'weigh-out' before I can say who the winner is...so far I'm #1.  Wish me luck.  I need the money....our vet bill is over $800.00 so...it will help.**


I'm telling you...no i'm preaching to you....Gluten free is working.

I've been committing myself to it and this morning when I weighed myself, I lost 2lbs since Monday.  I am officially in another bracket xx9.8 lbs to be exact. So what if it's .2 away from where I was at.  It's whole 'nother number. =)

I have 1lb to go by tomorrow (hopefully) to be at minus 20 for our weight challenge.  I know if I would have worked out as I plan to in my head....i would've blown away everyone else and lost a lot more.  But that's okay.  I still have made huge progress.  Another girl told me she lost 24 as of Monday.  BOO! haha

For myself, changing my eating and sticking to what i am suppose to stick to is priority #1.  There's no sense in workign out and having a crappy eating habit.  For myself, I have to get into my routine and make sure I stick to it or I end up craving all the bad gluten-laden foods and sabotage myself and my thyroid.

So here are some of my competing priorities (because they all one day will be grouped under #1).

1. Commit to being Gluten Free, Soy Free
2. Drink a minimum of 100oz of Water per day
3. Eat more organic (I have started this already with Eggs, Milk, Chicken)
4. Workout a minimum of 5 days then increase to 6 days (this is a need)

 That little list of 4 things will be the foundation of me getting to my goal.

So we shall see who is tomorrow's winner.  Of course, I hope it's me because I can use that scrilla!

Almost at my 1st halfway mark

This morning I thought I was doing pretty foul.  Then I stepped on the scale and looked.  I am only 3lbs away from losing 20!

I haven't done my cardio like I would like but mentally I am! =) 

Here are my goals broken down:

1 - Lose 20  Check! 8/26/10
2 - Lose another 20 (making 40)
3 - Lose another 'nother 20 (making 60)
4 - Lose yet another 20 (making 80)
5 - Lose the last 8 (total of 88)

It may seem like I don't need to lose that much and maybe I don't.  I have a big ol' booty, calves, thighs so I'm not concerned that I will look like skelator. (well, actually skelator is pretty buff so that's a bad example)
I definitely do not want or see my body like this:

Way too drastic.  You know when you see people and they lose hella weight and they just look shot!  Yea, I'm not gunning for that.  I do however, would like to be toned and athletic looking like Sara Ramirez:

She looks nice in a dress and hasn't lost her curves. 

So I will see if my total goal (including the 17 I've lost so far) is either 61 or 71.

Either way..in any case..I'm on my way.

Food Review: Colbys Kettle Corn - Cinnamon Sugar

Yesterday we had a big ol' get together.

My cousin brought over this bag of popcorn and told me: "Look it's gluten free! You can have some." haha so funny that my family looks at that and thinks of me.

I tried it and it was really really good!

Her friend from work gave it to her and I have no clue where to buy it locally. 

https://www.colbyskettlecorn.com/corn.html

If you find it.....let me know or you can order through their website.

Vitamin Review: Bee Pollen Granules

I took my mom to her Dr. appt today at Kaiser for an MRI and while she was in the room, I took a quick trip to the Farmer's Market they have every Friday.

I got some fresh fruit, GF cookies and I came up on a midnight clear....wrong song.  I came up on a stand from "Small Bees" http://www.smallbees.com/ (not much up yet but if your in San Jo, go check them out at the Farmer's Market). 

I asked what the bottle was (Honey Bee Pollen) for.  The girl said it' helps your immune system and such.  Take a teaspoon and put in your coffee (which I desperately need to lay off of) or tea and it will dissolve.

I bought a 4oz bottle for $5.00 (good deal and saves me on shipping if you google and try to buy online).  I came back to work, tasted it.  It tasted like nothing really.  I google'd Bee Pollen Granules and some articles came up.

From http://www.bee-pollen-health.com/ (8/20/10 1:45pm):

What's In Bee Pollen? Bee pollen contains an incredible array of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, co-enzymes, and hormones. It is especially rich in B vitamins and antioxidants, including lycopene, selenium, beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and several flavanoids. It is composed of 55% carbohydrates, 35% protein, 3% vitamins and minerals, 2% fatty acids, and 5% other substances. Overall, it's one of the most nutritionally complete natural substances found on earth.

What Will Bee Pollen Do for Me?  When you first start taking bee pollen you may feel a significant increase in your energy right away, definitely within a week or so. Over time the consistent use of pollen will improve your energy, stamina, and endurance. You'll also probably notice a greater feeling of general well-being. Over the long-term, regular consumption of bee pollen will help alleviate many different health problems, slow down the aging process, and improve your quality of life.

http://www.bee-pollen-health.com/health-benefits-bee-pollen.html

http://www.bee-pollen-health.com/bee-pollen-info-2.html

The first I looked at was from http://www.livestrong.com/article/97342-benefits-taking-bee-pollen-granules/  (which I really like, they have so much info and it's just great! So go bookmark it).  Here are some snippets from http://www.livestrong.com/ (as of 8/20/10 2:00pm)

Taking bee pollen granules is a form of apitherapy, which means using products from honeybees to promote human health. Although the bees eat the bee pollen granules, they produce an excess that the hive keeper harvests for human consumption.

Energy and Health - With a full spectrum of amino acids and 25 percent protein content, bee pollen may boost your energy levels and contribute to a healthy diet. In addition to protein, the American Apitherapy Society (AAS) reports that bee pollen contains healthy enzymes, antioxidants and other nutrients. The AAS suggests that 2 tsp. bee pollen granules equal the nutrition in an entire serving of vegetables.

Allergies - Consuming bee pollen may desensitize some individuals against airborne pollen allergens. By consuming trace amounts of the allergen present in bee pollen, over a period of weeks or months, you may desensitize your body against its allergic effects. This may be more effective if the beehive exists within a few miles of your home, because bees travel approximately two miles on pollen-gathering journeys. Local bee pollen is more likely to contain traces of the specific pollen that triggers your allergies. The Drugs website reports that although bee pollen may reduce hay fever, the risk of a severe allergic reaction exists. (The bottle I got is from a local place in Los Gatos, CA)

Other Medical Conditions - Taking bee pollen may be beneficial in the treatment of other medical conditions, suggests the Apitherapy Society, but consult your physician before using bee pollen to replace traditional medicines. You may experience relief from fatigue, anorexia, obesity, depression, varicose veins, infertility and high cholesterol, although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not endorse bee pollen for these conditions.

Side Bustin: So, FDA, hmmm....sometimes I'm not so sure about the approval.  I mean they say that processed junk is ok (Aspartame etc).

Taking Bee Pollen - You may chew the small golden granules; they have a slightly sweet and mildly woody flavor. You can also grind them into a fine powder in a food processor or a coffee grinder and stir into yogurt or add to juices or fruit smoothies

The second site I visited was: http://www.ehow.com/way_5207185_do-bee-pollen-granules.html
Here are snippets from them (8/20/10 2:20pm):

Bee pollen is a superfood that provides you with all of the essential vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants that your body needs to be healthy. That's why bee pollen granules are in such high demand. Even better than other superfoods like flax seed and walnuts, bee pollen granules are a complete food, encompassing essential nutrients.

Bee Pollen Granules - Bee pollen granules should be taken in full granule form for the best benefits. An adult can take a teaspoon of bee pollen granules each day and see a differences. For a weight lifter or other athletes, 4-6 tsp per day is appropriate. For allergy symptoms, you can take one teaspoon in the morning and one at night. Bee pollen granules are completely safe, so you don't need to worry about taking too many. For a child, you may want to start out with a smaller dosage, like four granules a day, building up to a half teaspoon.


Drinks - If you have problems with taking the bee pollen granules on their own, you can mix them into protein shakes and smoothies. Remember to still use them in a whole granule form. You can try a morning protein drink with one egg, a cup of orange juice, a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of bee pollen granules for a quick morning drink. Anytime you make a fruit smoothie, you can add a teaspoon of bee pollen granules to get the full benefit of a teaspoon per day

Foods - With a little imagination, you can find delicious ways to take your bee pollen granules every day to get the maximum benefit. If you eat cereal every morning, try sprinkling your bee pollen granules on top. You might even try putting your bee pollen in popcorn. Try taking 1/2 C of uncooked popcorn, 1/3 C vegetable oil, 1 tsp of your bee pollen granules and 1 tsp of both salt and sugar. Just heat the oil and then add the popcorn; when it's popped, you can sprinkle the bee pollen, salt and sugar over the popcorn for a treat that is extremely healthy.

And yes, i've even seen recipes for Bee Pollen Granules.


To be safe, ask your doctor before using this....don't want you to break out in hives! ha get it? oh, you'll get it later. =)

GF Dinner Party

Well I considered it a party!

I had some friends over last night for a small dinner party.  I made those min-turkey meatloafs in muffin pans (topped with a tomatoe/chipotle paste mix) and instead of the rolled oats, I used GF Bread Crumbs (Tortilla crumbs) so it was 100% GF!  I also made some Sweet Potatoe Fries (eh, they were ok, but I'm supposed to not eat it so much), broccoli and Quinoa Corn Salad.

My friends have never ever had or tried Quinoa and I made a salad that I had never made before in my life. I tossed cooked quinoa with a can of rinsed black beans and a jar of that Trader Joe's Corn Salsa (No tomatoes) and it was like a sweet and spicy kind of taste.  They liked it and even had seconds!

I also had a flourless GF Chocolae Torte.  I had some organic blueberries that I bought at Sunday's Farmer's Market and some walnuts.  Oh and I made them some fresh whipped cream.

Drinks we had a virgin cocktail.  Trader Joe's Mineral water (which I just love) and some Cranberry Juice (no sugar added).

So that was my GF dinner party. =)

GF Dinner Tonight

My friends had me over for dinner the other night.  I injured my back and went anyhow.  Well my friends wanted to take a walk so I went. Walking. Like a Robot.

I joked and said I should've worn my heels so I'd have an excuse to not walk. lol But it was good, and my back felt a little better.

So because we were eating healthy and they hosted, I suggested that I make dinner tonight.  I'll be making Mini Turkey Meatloafs: http://lo-hypothyroidism.blogspot.com/2009/09/gluten-free-recipe-taras-turkey-mini.html

And yes....we will be walking again tonight after dinner, a little farther but tonight I will have my jacket because it's been a bit nipply in the evening.

Side dishes....not sure. I'm not much into mashed potatoes.  But I have been wanting to try Mashed Cauliflower. I think I'll go google some GF Side Dishes.

Recipe: Quinoa & Corn Salsa Salad

The Title makes it sound gross but really it's not.

This is a broke-down version of a recipe.  I was at Trader Joe's last night with my friend and she grabbed a sample of Quinoa Salad that was just made.  She wasn't adventerous and decided to give it to me.

But I love Quinoa and it was really good.

Recipe: They mixed a can of (rinsed) black beans, cooked Quinoa and Trader Joe's Corn Chili Salsa (no tomatoes).  It was a protein/fiber packed spicy/sweetness taste that was different.

So I bought the Corn Salsa.  I already have Quinoa and Black Beans in my pantry.

I think I'll make it for dinner tomorrow with some baked chicken.

Food Review: Enviro Kidz Organic Gorilla Munch Cereal

OHMG, I just realized why I was so infatuated with SilverBack Gorillas!  Because I LOVE Gorilla Munch Cereal!

There are no artificial preservatives or additives.
It's Gluten Free (however it is made in a facility that uses peanuts, tree nuts & soy).
Low Sodium.

Ingredients: Organic Corn Meal, Organic Evaporated Cane Juice, Sea Salt

Nutrition Facts: 3/4 Cup = 120 cal; 5 cal from fat; total fat: 0g; 2g Fiber; 8g Sugar; 2g protein

Now, I know I previously have said, No Evaporated Cane Juice, but I don't eat it much, it's not a sugary cereal and yes i'm bending my own rules. =)

It's really good though.  Like a grown-up version of Kix cereal (if you were ever on welfare, that's the cereal you would love to get!....well for me at least).

They have other products too that I like and have bought .  Check them out at: http://www.naturespath.com/

This is not just Indigestion....

My day started off with me waking up at 4:30am.  Don't mind the fact that I couldn't go to sleep until about 2am.

Phones were down at work today, I got a call at 7am.  I don't start work until 9....so my day was early!

I made a pot of Coffee(1), although i put a little more than 4 cups of water, it made barely 2 cups of coffee.  I had Vanilla Nut Creamer(2) and I admit a spoonfulandahalf of Sugar(3).

I went to work on getting my curls straightened and then i noticed some breakage in my hair.  Either A...it was new hair a'growin' or B...part of the strand said I'm out this...and skee-daddled.  I arrived at work and told my friend to check out my findings...while I was looking for them in her mirror our manager walked and i was so embarrased.  I just had to tell her why I was standing in an office at 9am in the morning with both me and my friend checking my scalp. lol  We washed our hands okay?!

hmmm i kinda lost my thought about why im writing this.

Okay, so I had nothing but that Coffee(1) to drink and at 11am I was starvin'!  My first...ok...second mistake was asking my pregnant friend-worker (that's gonna be my new word for friends who happen to be co-workers) to go get something.  We did major damage. We went to Five Guys Burger and Fries.  I know! I know! Just the name should have scared me off.  What healthy, gluten-free, soy-free, non-processed, organic choices are really on that menu?  Nada.  Although it was good when i first ate it.  My stomach feels like....well you know the saying...a picture is worth 1,000 words? Well:

What that looks like is what if feels like.  I had the Bacon(4) Cheese(5) Burger(6) of course on regular white bun(7) and cajun(8) fries. 

And because I feel the need to burp to feel better, I had to get a Pepsi(9)

 to help the burping process since there are no Trader Joe's close enough for me to drink their fabulous Mineral Water.

I should have followed the voices in back of my head that told me to eat like:

You may be wondering why my sudden fascination with Silverback Gorilla's.  I have no answer except all the pictures I see lately pretty much explain what I'm trying to say.  So I'm going with it.

Also...the numbers [(1) through (9)] are meant to represent areas that need to be paid special attention to at a Crime Scene.

I learned something new today from Mary's Gone Crackers Blogspot

Take a gander: http://marysgonecrackers.blogspot.com/2010/04/conscious-eating.html

Food Review: Mary's Gone Crackers

I went to see my Doctor this past week and I told her I started to change my diet by going Gluten Free.  She said hold on and walked out of the office.

Although I know i didn't win Publishers Clearing House.....she came back in with a little box.  She said for me to try these Gluten Free crackers. 

I did.  And they were good.  It's made with Brown Rice, Quinoa, Flax Seed and Sesame Seed.  It has a really nutty crunch to it.

She said she's Gluten Free and she bought them at Whole Foods.  So last night I was at Whole Foods looking for a Vanilla Bean and I found the crackers.  They come in a couple of other variety's but these were good to start off with.

Looking at the box she has some links: http://www.marysgonecrackers.blogspot.com/ and http://www.marysgonecrackers.com/

I love how on the side bar it says: Organic, Kosher, non-GMO, whole grain, made with love...etc

It contains 450mg of omega-3 fatty acids per serving (6 crackers per serving; 140 cal, 45 cal from fat, 3g fiber, 0g sugar, 3g protein)

I suggest you try it.  Its cruncy and tasty.  I will be buying these again.

Workouts

My workouts have been slim to none lately.  Unless you count certain things as extra curricular activities.  Say walking from 1 end of this huge arse building (Team A to Team D) at work to the other only to have to go back to my desk in Team A near the lobby back to Team D.  Or when I forgot my glasses in the car.  Or when I went to Team D to help a co-worker and went to fill up my water bottle in Team B/C but left it at a cubicle in Team D and was already in Team A so i had to walk back get it then i walked past the water system and ended up in Team A and had to go back to Team B/C to get water then go back to my desk.

That stuff kinda counts right?

So i've been overworking myself with work and its been a little stressful with some personal decisions i have to make and i have a few monkeys on my back....more like a silver back.

So basically i've been not putting out what i had committed to recently.

I have P90X becuase I was watching an infomerical on one of my insomniatic nights and I bought it at 3:45am one time.  I've only popped a few of the disks in a few times.  They are good but I just loose focus sometimes.

Now I have Insanity.  This is 60 days and supposed to be intense.  My knee's been aching (really it has) and I can't find my dang knee brace! Guess I'll have to ice and and I want to try this program this weekend.

Wish me luck!

Food Review: Trader Joe Products

Ive been meaning to list some of the items i've tried.

Trader Joe's Corn Tortilla Flat Breads - okay so they are not GF however I still really like them!

Trader Joe's Organic Popcorn with Olive Oil. Use Christopher Walken's voice: "O'WOW". These are so good. Light, not salty and fully kernals! (It is made in a facility that process's wheat, milk, peanuts, tree nuts and soy.)

Trader Joe's Olive Tapenade Spread - this is really good.  If you love green and kalamata olives this will do it.  I had some on TJ Onion & Chive Seeded Corn Crackers (GF).

TJ Onion & Chive Seeded Corn Crackers (GF).  These little chippys are tasty.  Tastes like a corn chip but not really with the onion & chive.  My taste buds like these. =)

But back to the TJ Organic Popcorn w/Olive Oil. OHMG I will have to watch out with this one.  I think I could possibly eat the whole bag.

What is hypothyrodisim?

What is hypothyrodisim? That my friends is a question I am always asked.

Side bustin': As I as searching for a GF Magazine (because somewhere in my lil' mind, i thought non existed prior to googling it...i came across a site that stated there are some medications not GF friendly. 

Web links as of 7/12/2010:
     Originating site: http://www.theglutenfreelife.com/articles/gluten-free-medications-list/
     Linked Site: http://homepage.mac.com/sholland/celiac/index.html
     .pdf file: http://homepage.mac.com/sholland/celiac/GFfoodlist.pdf

Back to what is hypothyrodism.

This is what i got from Kaiser Permanentes' website Drug Encylopedia for my particular medication Levothyroxine (currently 200mcg is my dosage). It does note that "this is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product."

Uses

Levothyroxine is used to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It replaces the hormone that is normally produced by the thyroid gland. Low thyroid levels can occur naturally or when the thyroid gland is injured by radiation/medications or removed by surgery. It is important to have adequate levels of thyroid hormone in your bloodstream to maintain normal mental and physical activity. In children, adequate levels of thyroid hormone are important for normal mental and physical growth and development.This medication is used to treat other types of thyroid disorders as well (e.g., certain types of goiters, thyroid nodules, thyroiditis, thyroid cancer).

It also says how to use it.
 

How to use

Take this medication by mouth usually once a day on an empty stomach, 1/2 to 1 hour before breakfast, or as directed by your doctor. To prevent difficulty swallowing the tablet, take it with a full glass of water unless otherwise directed by your doctor. For children who cannot swallow whole tablets, crush the tablet and mix in 1 or 2 teaspoons (5 or 10 milliliters) of water, and give using a spoon or dropper as soon as possible after preparation. Do not store the mixture for later use. Do not mix crushed tablets in soybean infant formula. Consult your pharmacist for more information.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage based on your medical condition, your response to therapy, and your laboratory test results. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting with your doctor. Replacement therapy is usually taken for life. It may take up to 4-6 weeks before the full benefits of this medication take effect. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

As i've read and read about thyroid, endocrine disruptors, hypothyroidism patients should stay away from Gluten and Soy (go to wikipedia and type Goitren
 
OH goodness and the side effects.  Although it says the symptomes should dissappear...that's the key word...'should'.  It's never 100% because i have variations of these for the past 6years or so:
 

Side effects

Symptoms of low thyroid levels include fatigue, muscle aches, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, slow heart rate, sensitivity to cold, or dry brittle hair that tends to fall out easily. These symptoms should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, notify your doctor promptly. Headache, nervousness, trembling, sweating, increased appetite, diarrhea, weight loss or insomnia may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. In rare instances, some hair loss may occur during the first few months of starting this drug. This effect is usually temporary as your body adjusts to this medication. If this effect persists or worsens, notify your doctor promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Seek immediate medical attention if you have any of these very unlikely but serious side effects: chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, seizures. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Drug Interactions....lucky for me this is pretty much the only prescribed medication I take....however take a look at the items in Rojo.

Drug interactions

Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: warfarin, digoxin, estrogen products (including estrogen-containing birth control pills), diabetes medicines (e.g., insulin, glipizide, rosiglitazone), amiodarone, iodide (including radiographic contrast agents containing iodine), lithium, anti-thyroid agents (e.g., methimazole, propylthiouracil), androgens/anabolic steroids, glucocorticoids (e.g., dexamethasone, prednisone), high dose salicylates (e.g., aspirin), phenobarbital, rifamycins (e.g., rifampin), beta blockers (e.g., propranolol), antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, maprotiline, sertraline), cytokines (e.g., interferon-alpha, interleukin-2), growth hormones, ketamine, theophylline. Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products, diet aids) because they may contain ingredients such as decongestants or caffeine that could increase your heart rate or blood pressure. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of these products. Certain medicines may decrease absorption of this drug into your bloodstream. Therefore, take levothyroxine 4 hours apart from: calcium supplements, iron supplements, antacids, simethicone, orlistat, cholestyramine, colesevelam, colestipol, sucralfate, sodium polystyrene sulfonate. **Certain foods may decrease absorption of this medication when taken at the same time. Take levothyroxine separately from: soybean flour (soybean infant formula), walnuts, dietary fiber.This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacis

**CHECK OUT: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goitrogen 7/12/2010

Also look at Endocrine Distruptors: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endocrine_disruptor as of 7/12/2010

So that's me.  I have hypothyroidism and above is the jist of it.  Later I'll share my fantastic story of how I diagnosed myself and a doctor said I wasn't doing enough and was calculating wrong.

What should I name my Thyroid?

What should I name my Thyroid?

People have names for pets, cars....or in my case my metal monkey candle holder 'Sherman'.

So why not name my Thyroid? It's always with me and a nuisance at times but it'd be easier to say 'Oh i gained weight because I spent the weekend with Agatha this weekend and she made me eat that plate of pasta!'

Better to blame someone else rather than myself right? lol jk.

But really....I do want to name it. =)

Made the better choice today

As of this week...wait...as of last week. I kinda...no I have fallen off my 100% GF plan. poop.

What I have been doing is kind of a I rub your lamp, you rub mine.  I've been mindful but not 100% of what I should be doing.

I've been WOOCing (so what for 2 days only now) and every morning right away theres fires to put out. Meetings, running around and of course the water pipe at my casa busted so no water at my house yesterday or today. 

Today I got invited by a workflow group to go to lunch (since I do a lot of the updates and posting).  Im like the Wizard of Id. So we went to Applebee's and at first everythign was gluten laden.  I was thinking of having soup and pasta or hot wings.  Then i saw fajitas.  No rice, but yes on the meat.  I was browsing through the dessert menu when i seen nutritional value.

WOAH! Everything was over 1200 calories! For lunch! Lunatics.  So i opted for a 550 cal meal and added some grilled shrimp.

I was craving some yogurt but i didnt get any.  Why because the place i like you can add all the toppings you could if you were in an ice cream shop.  I might've failed that test.  So i just took myself back to work, strolled to my office and sat in my chair and ate some pineapple.

And look what I came upon just a while after: http://health.yahoo.net/experts/eatthis/worst-fast-food-meals-america

9 Ingredients to avoid in processed foods

As a matter of fact just STAY AWAY from processed foods.  I try to as much as possible but i found this on a blog that I will post the link:

from: Black Fitness Blog http://www.blackfitnessblog.com/2010/05/9-ingredients-to-avoid-in-processed-foods/ as of 6/28/2010

Many packaged foods that seem healthy often contain fillers, preservatives and other ingredients you don’t want in your diet. It is always preferable to choose products that have only a handful of ingredients, all of which should be recognizable.

One test to know whether an ingredient is healthy is to ask yourself whether your grandmother would recognize it. If not, there is a good chance the ingredient is less natural food and more man-made chemical. Another good test is whether or not you can easily pronounce the ingredient. If you feel like you need a science degree to pronounce it properly, chances are the ingredient is worth avoiding.

If you do have to resort to a processed food for a snack or dinner (anything canned, packaged, etc.), try to avoid those that contain the ingredients listed in the following chart. Although this isn’t an exhaustive list, these ingredients are some of the most highly processed and least healthy of all:

Ingredient: Artificial Colors
Why is it Used?: Chemical compounds made from coal-tar derivatives to enhance color.
Why is it bad?: Linked to allergic reactions, fatigue, asthma, skin rashes, hyperactivity and headaches.

Ingredient: Artificial Flavorings
Why is it Used?: Cheap chemical mixtures that mimic natural flavors.
Why is it bad?: Linked to allergic reactions, dermatitis, eczema, hyperactivity and asthma. 
Can affect enzymes, RNA and thyroid.

Ingredient: Artificial Sweeteners (Acesulfame-K, Aspartame, Equal®, NutraSweet®, Saccharin, Sweet’n Low®, Sucralose, Splenda® & Sorbitol)
Why is it Used?: Highly-processed, chemically-derived, zero-calorie sweeteners found in diet foods and diet products to reduce calories per serving.
Why is it bad?: Can negatively impact metabolism.  Some have been linked to cancer, dizziness hallucinations and headaches.

Ingredient: Benzoate Preservatives (BHT, BHA, TBHQ)
Why is it Used?: Compounds that preserve fats and prevent them from becoming rancid.
Why is it bad?: May result in hyperactivity, angiodema, asthma, rhinitis, dermatitis, tumors and urticaria.  Can affect estrogen balance and levels.

Ingredient: Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)
Why is it Used?: Chemical that boosts flavor in many citric-based fruit and soft drinks.
Why is it bad?: Increases triglycerides and cholesterol.  Can damage liver, testicles, thyroid, heart and kidneys.

Ingredient: High Fructose Corn Syrup
Why is it Used?: (HFCS) Cheap alternative to cane and beet sugar.  Sustains freshness in baked goods. Blends easily in beverages to maintain sweetness.
Why is it Bad?: May predispose the body to turn fructose into fat.  Increases risk for Type-2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke and cancer.  Isn’t easily metabolized by the liver.

Ingredient: MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)
Why is it Used?: Flavor enhancer in restaurant food, salad dressing, chips, frozen entrees, soups and other foods.
Why is it Bad?: May stimulate appetite and cause headaches, nausea, weakness, wheezing, edema, change in heart rate, burning sensations and difficulty in breathing.

Ingredient: Olestra
Why is it Used?: An indigestible fat substitute used primarily in foods that are fried and baked.
Why is it Bad?: Inhibits absorption of some nutrients.  Linked to gastrointestinal disease, diarrhea, gas, cramps, bleeding and incontinence.

Ingredient: Shortening, Hydrogenated and Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Palm, Soybean and others) Industrially created fats used in more than 40,000 food products in the U.S.
Why is it used?: Cheaper than most other oils.
Why is it bad?: Contain high levels of trans fats, which raise bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol, contributing to risk of heart disease.

GF Day 5 Take 2

It's been 5 whole days.  FIVE. I've been quite good on this so far 100% sticking to it.

I've been drinking my water like im supposed to.  Today I had GF Enviorkids brand cereal with milk for breakfast.

Lunch was a mixed green salad with 1/2 avocado, grilled bellpeppers - Chicken - purple onion (it was a kabob stick from WF that I got last night and roasted in the oven) and balsamic vinegrette from Trader Joe's.

Dinner....not too sure yet.  I have some leftover turkey meat that i made for tacos the other day and since i now have almond cheese, I think I'll make some turkey enchiladas with green olives (sounds weird but my aunt made it and it was really good). And a GF beer.  Yes a GF Beer.  =)

I almost didn't go to the track today but since i missed Wed and Thursday, I have to make up lost workouts. 

I did 2.0 miles.  I will do something tomorrow morning before my sisters party.  Hopefully I can make it to my dad's this weekend so I can do some swimming with my lil chola's and lil cholo. =)

This week I've lost 3lbs so far.  (well, I'm wearing jeans so it should be 5lbs lost).  We started this weight challenge 2 months ago and if my guesstimation is correct then I've lost 10 lbs.  But im not telling these broads at work.

I may not win the competition (I might have if i wasn't such a procrastinator!) however, I'm winning my health.

Gluten, Gluten, Gluten...

Although the following section pertains mainly to GI and Celiac Diseases, there are persons who have not been tested to be Celiac.  There is also Gluten sensitive/allergic persons.  It can range from mild to severe.  Persons with other Auto-Immune Diseases (Hyper/Hypo Thyroid) who remove gluten from their daily intake show alleviated symptoms to their conditions.  I myself have done this and my thyroid symptoms improved dramatically.  Gluten is so over-processed and in virtually almost all of your foods as a filler that I believe your body doesn't know how to process this chemically engineered wheat product aka Gluten.


From Jackson | Siegelbaum Gastroenterology http://www.gicare.com/diets/gluten-free.aspx 6/16/10

Purpose
Gluten is the protein part of wheat, rye, barley, and other related grains. Some people cannot tolerate gluten when it comes in contact with the small intestine. This condition is known as celiac disease (sometimes called non-tropical sprue or gluten sensitive enteropathy).

Of great concern and interest is the fact that nine out of ten people with celiac disease do not known they have it. A simple blood test can give the physician the first clue to this disease.

In patients with celiac disease, gluten injures the lining of the small intestine. This injury can result in weight loss, bloating, diarrhea, gas, abdominal cramps, and/or vitamin and mineral deficiencies. When patients totally eliminate gluten from the diet, the lining of the intestine has a chance to heal.

Prebiotic Plant Fiber
A prebiotic is not a probiotic, which are beneficial bacteria taken by mouth. These probiotics are present in yogurt, other dairy products and pills. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are the necessary plant fibers that contain both oligofructose and inulin. These two fibers are the main nourishment for the good bacteria that reside in the gut. These fibers are rich in chicory root, Jerusalem artichoke, leeks, asparagus and others. Gluten containing wheat and barley also contain these prebiotics

Health Benefits from Prebiotic Fibers

There is now ample information in the medical literature to indicate that a prebiotic rich diet leads to demonstrable health benefits. These include:

• Increased calcium absorption
• Stronger bones and bone density
• Enhanced immunity
• Reduced allergies and asthma in infants and children
• A lower blood triglyceride level
• Appetite and weight control
• Lower cancer factors in the gut

Celiac Wheat-Prebiotic Dilemma
Nature has played a trick on celiac people. Wheat and wheat products provide over 80% of the prebiotics that North Americans ingest. Yet, celiac patients must assiduously avoid wheat, barley and rye. How do they then feed their good colon bacteria and get the health benefits, as outlined above? They must favor the other vegetables and fruits, as listed in the prebiotic section below. Additionally, they should consider a gluten free prebiotic supplement such as Prebiotin.

Special Considerations
Removing gluten from the diet is not easy. Grains are used in the preparation of many foods. It is often hard to tell by a food's name what may be in it, so it is easy to eat gluten without even knowing it. However, staying on a strict gluten-free diet can dramatically improve the patient's condition. Since it is necessary to remain on the gluten-free diet throughout life, it will be helpful to review it with a registered dietitian.

The person who prepares the patient's food much fully understand the gluten-free diet. Read food labels carefully:

• Do not eat anything that contains the following grains: wheat, rye and barley.
• At one time, oats were thought to contain some gluten. It has now become apparent, however, that oats frequently were processed in machines that also processed wheat. Most manufacturers no longer do this, although if there are any questions, a person should get reassurance from the manufacturer by mail, email or phone.
• The following can be eaten in any amount: corn, potato, rice, soybeans, tapioca, arrowroot, carob, buckwheat, millet, amaranth and quinoa. (Millets are also a mild thyroid peroxidase inhibitor and probably should not be consumed in great quantities by those with thyroid disease, this includes soy, soybeans which are linked to be Isoflavones which may affect fertility.  Buckwheat in sensitive people can be fatal, it provokes IgE-mediated anaphylaxis)
• Distilled white vinegar does not contain gluten.
• Malt vinegar does contain gluten.

Grains are used in the processing of many ingredients, so it will be necessary to seek out hidden gluten. The following terms found in food labels may mean that there is gluten in the product.

• Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP), unless made from soy or corn
• Flour or Cereal products, unless made with pure rice flour, corn flour, potato flour or soy flour
• Vegetable Protein, unless made from soy or corn
• Malt or Malt Flavoring, unless derived from corn
• Modified Starch or Modified Food Starch, unless arrowroot, corn, potato, tapioca, waxy maize or maize is used
• Vegetable Gum, unless made from carob bean, locust bean, cellulose, guar, gum arabic, gum aracia, gum tragacanth, xantham or vegetable starch
• Soy Sauce or Soy Sauce Solids, unless you know they do not contain wheat  

Any of the following words on food labels often mean that a grain containing gluten has been used.

• Stabilizer
• Starch
• Flavoring
• Emulsifier
• Hydrolyzed
• Plant Protein

GF Day 2 Take 2

I was supposed to go to the track this morning, but I ended up going to bed late (stupid Super Mario World) so i barely made it to my AM meeting where I had a Yogurt and GF Granola from Trader Joe's.

By 11am I had already had 82 oz of water.  I HAVE to drink as much as i can as early so Im not up and out of my seat every few minutes at the end of the day when i need to be in my chair.

Went to the track and did 1.75 miles of walking because my legs are sore and because I have practice tomorrow.  Although now I may not go because I have to take my friend to the SF airport.

Lunch, my friend brought some Baked Turkey Breast and sauteed Green Beans in EVOO.  It was really good.  My mom had leftover Cocido so I'll have that for dinner.

I have to do a few things after work so I may not make it to the track.  I'm working on a painting for my sisters birthday this weekend.

As of right now, I've had 116+ oz of water. 

I was told that you should be drinking at least 64oz/day or 1/2 your weight in ounces whichever is greater.

How to Kick Start Your Metabolism: Gluten Free Yes, No and Alternamtive Foods

Simple Ways to Kick Start Your Metabolism Detox Diet

Recommendations:

Pay careful attention to labels, buy foods which have minimum processing and preservatives.

Avoid anything which has a hydrolyzed ingredient, MSG, yeast extracts, corn syrup, evaporated cane juice etc.

 Again check labels for amounts of added sugars. Don’t eat while dehydrated….drink water first. This will help you from slipping and eating something sweet or from the “no” list.

If you have a thyroid problem, I suggest staying away from Soy and Gluten as much as possibe.  I was reading up on this (because I have a low metabolism due to underactive thyroid) and click on the following:  Article #1  and/or Article #2

Now, I'm not saying I have Celiac Disease but I feel a lot better Gluten free, my skin is clearer, I'm less bloated, I have more energy and i lost a lot of weight.   Also I will be posting something on Edocrine Distrupters AND Goitrens. BAD BAD BAD! for Thyroid issues or persons with any other Auto-Immune Diseases.

Foods prohibited on a gluten-free diet:

Any bread, cereal or other food made with wheat, rye, barley and oat flours or ingredients and byproducts made from those grains.

Processed foods containing wheat, gluten-derivatives, or thickeners. These foods include hot dogs, ice cream, salad dressings, canned soups, dried soup mixes, non-dairy creamers, processed cheeses, cream sauces, and hundreds of other common foods.

• Alcohol
• Any breads or wheat products such as wheat tortillas
• Anything that does not say GLUTEN FREE on the packaging
• Barley, bulgur, couscous, kamut, Oatmeal/oats, rye, spelt, wheat, sprouted wheat
• Beef (all kinds)
• Butter
• Caffeinated beverages (Soda’s of any kind, & Coffee)
• Canola oil
• Cheese (all kinds)
• Deli Meats
• Dried Fruit
• Fruit Juices, all fruit juices
• Ham
• Hot dogs and buns
• Miso
• Oatmeal/oats
• Peanut Butter
• Pistachio’s and Peanuts
• Sausage
• White Flour Foods – Pasta, Bread, White Rice

  

YES FOODS

BEANS & GRAINS – All Beans, Amaranth, Brown & Wild Rice, Brown Rice Pasta, Buckwheat, Corn Tortillas, Edamame, Millet, Quinoa

BEVERAGES – All Unsweetened: Water, Soymilk, Rice Milk, Green & Herbal tea, Coconut Milk/Water

DAIRY – Eggs, Milk (Fat Free – 2%), Yogurt (Plain, Low/Non Fat & Unsweetened) ( I Love using Greek Yogurt Fat Free Plain from TJ's and I have recipes for dips too.)

FRUIT – Berries (Fresh & Frozen good for shakes & Breakfast Options), Fresh Fruit (all kinds; keep Grapes & Watermelon to a minimum due to sugar content)

PROTEIN – Chicken Breast (Organic, No Skin), Cornish Hen, Lamb, Fish/Seafood (Any kind), Turkey

SNACKS – Hummus, Gluten & Wheat free bars, Gluten & Wheat Free Cereal (WF has a great selection of Gluten Free Cookies, especially the Pecan Cookies)


SPICES/EXTRAS – Almond Butter, Dark Chocolate (1oz & must be over 80% Dark), Flax Seed, Honey, Nuts (Fresh & Raw only...NO Peanuts or Pistacios), Olive Oil, Salsa (Homemade, if store bought make sure it’s wheat & gluten free), Sesame Seeds, Vegetable Soup, Wheat & Gluten Free crackers

VEGETABLES – All, Avocado, Edamame, Olives

 NO Foods Alternatives:

Alcohol

  Well there is no alternative so just stay away from the hooch.

Any breads or wheat products such as wheat tortillas
  Whole Foods has Brown Rice Tortillas and Gluten Free Bread (it's kinda dense so I just stayed away from the bread period).  If I did have an urge, for a burger I'd use the Ezekiel 4:9 Sesame bread which is really good and you can freeze portions you do not use.  Corn Tortillas are the best and are on the YES food.  GF Bread options are not available yet at Trader Joe's. 

Anything that does not say GLUTEN FREE on the packaging
  Just stick to Gluten Free.

Barley, bulgur, couscous, kamut, Oatmeal/oats, rye, spelt, wheat, sprouted wheat
  I've used a mixture of Amaranth & Millet as an alternative to a nutty flavored kind of breakfast meal.  You can also use Quinoa which is high in Calcium (1 Cup cooked is equivalent to the calcium in 1 gallon of Milk.)

Beef (all kinds)
  I know, I know but just stick with this.

Butter
  I sometimes would use Vegan butter.  It's not processed and still taste really good. I use Earth Brand or Earth Something from Whole Foods.

Caffeinated beverages (Soda’s of any kind, & Coffee)
  I kicked the Soda habit long ago but Coffee was hard but it's better you have less of an addition to it for the mornings.  I switched to Tea and used flavor infused honey sticks (from Target) for my tea or Agave Nectar as a liquid sugar substitute (you can get this for $2.99 approx at Trader Joe's).

Canola oil
  Not a problem since I love Extra Virgin Olive Oil so much that I take 1TBSP with lemon juice in the AM when doing gluten free.  Helps your digestive system and your skin looks FABULOUS!

Cheese (all kinds)
  Two words: Whole foods.  They have vegan and Almond Cheese (cheeder, Mozzarella and American).  You really don't notice the differnce.  It may take a little longer to melt but the taste is really the same and it's NOT PROCESSED like other cheese.

Deli Meats
  Anytime I want Deli Meats, I just think of how Head Cheese Deli Meat is made.  Processed and chopped.  Not for me.

Dried Fruit
  Fresh is better.

Fruit Juices, all fruit juices
  I admit around the time I have my montly visitor I CRAVE all the bad things.  So i do splurge in the occasional Orange Juice to calm down my cramps.  But during Gluten free times....I measure my cups.  I dont chug it out of the jug like a sailor.


Ham
  I love me some ham..Ham Sammich's, hambones, hamhocks.  JK.  I do like ham but I don't love it like a newborn baby so go without it.

Hot dogs and buns
  Well there goes my bread pudding.

Miso
  I love me some Miso Soup, but stick with the plan man!

Oatmeal/oats
  I switched to Amaranth and Millet.  It may be an acquired taste but it's really good and filling!

Peanut Butter
  Almond Butter, Cashew Butter and other butters (but not butter butter) seemed to work for me.  I would spread 1 TBSP Almond Butter on a Brown Rice Cake (TJ's and WF) with fresh fruit is a good snack.

Pistachio’s and Peanuts
  I never liked Peanuts anyhow and Pistacio's hurt my braces.  I buy the snack packet sized nuts from TJ's in Almond or Walnut and I don't have to measure and they are not on the NO list.

Sausage
  I will keep my dirty mouth shut.  I love sausage though.  (I willl keep my dirty mouth shut).  I switched to sticking to Turkey. Turkey Sausage, Turkey Bacon, Turkey Ground.

White Flour Foods – Pasta, Bread, White Rice
  Pasta: Brown Rice Pasta, Corn Pasta, Quinoa Pasta (WF and TJ.  TJ has cheaper Brown Rice Spaghetti Pasta, Fusili and Penne).
 
  Bread, this was covered earlier.  They need to come up with a not so dense form.  HOWEVER, however, they do have these AWESOME "Cream Biscuits" at WF that are great to crumble up as an alternative to mashed potatoes, or you can split in half and toast it and taste great with vegan butter or plain or as a bkfst sandwich with turkey and eggs/egg whites. 
 
  White Rice well, I swtiched to Brown Rice and Quinoa.  I have a great recipe for Carmalized Onions with Spinach and musroom that goes great with Quinoa or Brown Rice.  Plus no need for Soy Sauce so less sodium in your diet! YAY!

Finally hit the track

Daily Mile shows I did 2.0 miles.  Liars.

I did 1.5 and 15 Sumo Squats + 10 Squat Kicks.

Im getting familiar with the daily mile site so give me some slack as I correct that issue.  Or maybe the forces in the universe are consipiring against me and telling me to DO MORE!

Hmm...well I guess I can do another 1.5 after work and make it an even 3.

We shall see.

I started drinking water like a camel prepparing for a caravan.  I've already sucked down over 50 flouid ounces which is a good start.  My daily water intake goal is at leat 100 fl oz per day.

Wish me luck.  OH and im upping my 70% Gluten free diet to be at least 95%.  okay 90% (being realistic until payday).

Edit:

After work I had Chicken Udon Soup (Gluten Free!) and although at 9pm when I shouldn't have had anything else, I was a bit hungry for some sweets so I had a cup of GF cereal. 

I drank about 110 oz of water.

SO today was my first day of being 100% gluten free!

NOTE: I finally logged in and was going back in time and reading my old posts.  Today is 6/9/2015 and little did i know then but i know now, Udon Noodles are not GF.

Excuse 1

I should face the scale.  I know im up in weight but i just dont want to see it. I feel it. 

A few people have said oh you look like you've lost weight.  Man do they need glasses.  BUT thanks for the compliment. =)

WHERE IS THE FIRE?!

Okay i have my clothes in my cabinet at work but they are just sitting there collecting dust.

I have my brother's graduation tonight so I can't go to the track after work. Tomorrow unless we travel out of town for my cousin's funeral.

=(

Epic Failure....to date

Yes.  The title is true. 

I've only worked out twice.  Once at the gym and once at practice since this stupid weight challenge.

I need to put an APB out for a missing item.  I can't seem to find that fire. The fire that would just make me work out, eat better.

maybe it's all the current crappy food I'm eating and im just going with it.

I did get my thyroid pills so that should help some.  I hope. 

I keep saying I'm going gluten free but it has yet come to fruitation.  This week.

I swear!

Must be doing something right

We started the weigh challenge Monday.

My plan and results so far:

Workout every day at lunch: FAIL - didn't do shit
Workout every day after work (except Wednesdays): FAIL - didn't do shit
Go to Wednesday Derby Practice: PASS
Be Gluten Free beginning Monday: FAIL - I even had dinner at the Fire Station last night with my dad and had a fat piece of steak (I swear they MADE me!) but I only cut 1/2 of the 5lb steak, potatoe wedges, bread

I said I'd wait a full week (after next week) to weigh myself after I worked out so I could feel better and see a differnce since I failed most of my goals so far.  The impatient ass that I am.  Weighed myself today.

And guess what?

I lost 6lbs.  I know.  I can't even explain it.  I can't believe it!  Crazy weird.

Imagaine if I worked out? sheez.

I'm hitting the gym today.  Maybe just a steam or sauna session but I'm going!

Time Bomb

Monday we started a challenge.

Monday, I ate regular food and no excercising.  UGH what is wrong with MOI?! I'll blame it on a monday meeting that never was.

Tuesday, I raced to work because we had a morning meeting at 9 (the same time I start work) then 1/2 way I was sent an email on my blackberry that the meeting was cancelled.  Thank goodness for my mom working with me and my BlackBerry.  Breakfast was Cream of Wheat.  Lunch was a Turkey Cranberry Sandwich and Salad and chips.  I drank 100 oz of water.  Dinner was Gluten Free cereal with non fat milk.  I did go to practice. 

wait that was wed.  I can't get the days straight.  Basically i haven't been gluten free and haven't been working out. 

I suck.

Today I had another sandwich and salad and chips.  Not enough water though.  I wanted to go work out or hit the steam room but I left my charger, earphones, water clothes at home.

UGH!  I have to get it together.

Nirvana or what not...

haha found this today in my DRAFT's.  So I guess I'll publish before I really read it because ummm i may want to make changes.  Here it is:

So without checking the dictionary I think that Nirvana means to be born again.  An elightenment.

Let me google it.

okay so it doesn't really pertain to me..thank you Webster's Dictionary for killing my self-awakening.

Anyway.  although I've been a heathen.  Today is Ash Wednesday and in preperation for it. I should be giving up what tempts me most. 

I know I should give up the guy that tempts me but I simply cannot because i know I can leave that when I choose.

But the real deal breakers are homies.

Gluten. Alcohol. Sugar/Butter. Coffee.

Is this some way of self-inflicting a punishment? No. Yes. Maybe. I don't know.

On a side note.  I was driving to work today and out of nowhere I yelled: "Oh It's on Bitch!".

I was talking to myself.  It must have been that wheatgrass shot in my shake today.

So reading over my headline.  I was 232. What the hell? I'm past that. (adding). Was i really going loca over that? Well that's good but my will power seemed to have taken a long ass vacation.

So back to being Catholic and what I'm giving up.

Alcohol.  I've done this before.  By choice, it wasn't even because of lent.  I just decided I didn't want any alcohol anymore.  For a while at least. Not that I have a problem with it, I just felt like not  drinking at all.

Coffee.  This will be a battle.  There are days that I feel like I can't open my eyelids without having toothpicks to prop them up. I think it's all in the mind.  I just need to get to bed earlier and not rely on caffeine to get me through the day.

Sugar, Butter. The dynamic duo that makes cupcakes, cakes and french toast the wonderfulness it is.

Gluten.

I love gluten.  No I fken love gluten.  But gluten doesn't love me.  All it does is kick me when I'm down.  After it shoved me and then tags along on my body like a mexican fancy dress (aka poncho) on a cold day in the motherland.

It feels like I'm currently wearning 20 fken ponchos.  And if you've never wore an authentic poncho...it's like getting a thick ass coarse like blanket cutting a hole in the middle and wearing it like an A-sign board.


It's apparently not good for my thyroid also.  Or so most books state.  I did do a really strict regime of being gluten free. It wasn't hard. Well mentally it was at first.  I was like fk...what the hell CAN I eat?

I had to reframe my mind and be creative.  I've posted a lot of recipe's on this blog and will start to add more. 

There are a few books that I have in my 'select library that relate to Gluten Free or Metabolism

• Gluten Free Connection by Dr. Shari Lieberman
• Master Your Metabolism by Jillian Michaels
• 1,000 Gluten Free Recipes by Carol Fenster, Ph.D.