Health, Diet, and Why I'm Talking About It

New year. New you.

That's what I was thinking a few years ago when I wasn't feeling well. Due to some complications after a major surgery, it turned out I'd need yet another, which took care of one problem, but also left me feeling really sick on a daily basis. My lifelong stomach irritation was worse than ever. After watching the Forks Over Knives documentary one evening, I was inspired to start eating differently - a plant based dietary approach. I was feeling excited but also sort of terrified.

One of my biggest joys in life has always been being in the kitchen and baking delicious things. I collected cookbooks as a child and read them daily. My identity was that of a little baker girl. And that stayed with me as I became a wife and mom. I knew this new way of eating was going to be tough for me because baked goods laden with butter and sugar would no longer be something I'd be having. I also decided this was something I was doing, not Colin and not our boys, and I'd continue to cook for them as I always had. (I didn't think it'd be fair to suddenly and radically change the diet of my children that they'd known all their lives).

A plant-based diet is centered on whole, unrefined, or minimally refined plants. It’s a diet based on fruits, vegetables, tubers, whole grains, and legumes; and it excludes or minimizes meat (including chicken and fish), dairy products, and eggs, as well as highly refined foods like bleached flour, refined sugar, and oil.

Oh boy.

The first month was extremely difficult for me. All those years of baking had given me one of the world's biggest sweet tooths and I missed sweets most of all. I missed them BAD. But I stayed strong and one month led to two, then to a year, then another, and another. It was good for my health, but took away my creativity. It was so hard to keep cooking one way for my family, while teaching myself a whole new repertoire of meals for myself.

But one thing wasn't changing. My stomach was still a mess and after seeking answers, I found out that gluten was my problem.

I want to tell you I'm not a person who sits around talking about what I eat or how I eat and through it all, my new way of eating wasn't something I wanted to talk about. (It's taken me more than three years to write this post). I think we've all been around a person who has dietary restrictions who was sort of obnoxious about it, or even kind of snooty. I never wanted to seem that way, so I kept it a secret and learned ways to blend in at a barbecue (just take the hamburger bun, load it with veggies, and it looks like you're eating a burger along with everyone else). A handful of times, as a guest in someone's home, I'd simply eat what they were serving, because I didn't want to be any trouble. And it worked out alright. Until the whole gluten thing. Now, it's no longer choosing to eat a certain way because it's healthier for me. Now it's something I have to do, so I'm not violently sick any more.

Now I'm learning the ropes again, without gluten this time, and it's getting easier every day. I've learned how to make meals that are healthy for my family, while incorporating meat for them a few days a week, and occasional treats they love. Why am I talking about this now, after explaining I've been avoiding the topic for these last few years? I'm ready to start writing actively here again and this is who I am. So occasionally, you're going to see some healthy recipes from me. But mostly, you're just going to be seeing more of me here again.

This week, I'll be sharing a favorite go-to meal, new year beauty finds, and some easy ways to freshen up your home.

Happy new year!

Comments

[Crystal]

Hi Serena, I like you suffered many years with what I called "stomach problems". I was diagnosed with celiac disease January 2014. It is a lifestyle change and not an easy one. However I have found the benefits of living "G" free are amazing. If you have a Whole Foods Market where you live check them out. They have the best selection of gluten free foods. However the downside is the food is more expensive. With your creativity and baking skills you can probably start to adapt your recipes for bread, cakes, pies, etc. and make them gluten free. Good luck!

[Serena]

Hi Crystal, I'm so glad you were able to find the answer and thank you for sharing an optimistic viewpoint. It's so nice to feel good again. Take care.

[anita]

My story is similar...I love fresh baked anything...wine...and all things sweet. And I am an excellent cook of all things bad for your health. About 10 months ago I developed a terrible skin rash that was extremely painful and spreading and getting infected. I tried every remedy online with no improvement...went the antibiotic route...then steroids...then antibiotics...Finally found a Naturopath who restricted my diet to ZERO SUGAR (not even a carrot)...Finally 2 months later my body is beginning to heal. Brain fog and depression gone... I feel so amazing but this lifestyle is very isolating. No eating out with friends and family. No eating out period because I can't take a chance that even a salad has had any chemical exposure. I'll be 60 in Feb. and my body has given me notice... Thanks so much for this post...It is good to hear other stories of surviving after sugar.

[Patty Green]

Thank you for sharing your story, Serena. I agree... so many people get on the bandwagon with their food/diet issues. It's almost sooo much drama that I wouldn't consider trying what they tout as the remedy for all that ails them! You are an inspiration, in so many ways. Thanks for putting yourself out there for all of us! <3

[karen]

Been gf and dairy free now for some time. Hard at first, because like you, I loved making goodies for everyone. By default, everyone in the family is now gf and feeling much better. My painful knees and digestive issues gone, my husband and sons shoulder and spine pain gone, well worth the switch. I occasionally bake still and my go to gf flour is Cup4Cup. Since we also eliminated lots of sugar that is only an occasional treat. We now eat lots of vegetables, organic meats ( my son works on a organic meat farm) some grains. I am constantly amazed at what a difference eliminating most sugar, wheat flour, and dairy did for us a family. We don't feel deprived at all anymore. Good luck on your new beginning.

[Serena]

Wow, Anita. That is quite a story. Whenever I feel sort of restricted, I hear someone else's story and think mine's not that hard after all. Congratulations on your improved health and my very best wishes on your journey with this new way of life. It's not easy, but I'm hopeful that for each of us who are having to make changes, we're able to find new and meaningful experiences that we wouldn't have had before. For me, today, it's getting to talk with you and share our stories with each other. Be well.

[Serena]

Thanks, Patty. I really appreciate your kind comments. I hope you're doing well.

[Serena]

Hi Karen, thanks for taking the time to share your story and what a great ending you have - HEALTH! I look forward to trying your favorite gf flour. Thank you and best wishes for continued health for you and your family.

[Susan]

Thank you for sharing your journey. I to know that when I cut out sugar, grains and dairy, I feel much better and can maintain a consistent weight.
If I slide back, weight piles on quickly, my hands ache and all sorts of unpleasant side effects remind me why I have chosen to be more responsible with my choices...I look forward to reading more

[Barbara Struthers]

Im glad we are going to see more of you!

[Pat McLaughlin]

Hi Serena, there is a blogger here on Facebook called Wellness Mama who is a trailblazer in this area. You may find her blog very helpful and motivating! Good luck to you I will be following!

[Serena]

I find the same to be true, Susan. I hope you're doing well this lovely new year.

[Serena]

Thanks, Barbara. xoxo

[Serena]

Thank you, Pat. I look forward to checking it out. Happy new year.

[Juli Smith]

Hello Serena,
I tried to write a little bit about my family's food journey, but apparently it was to long. I would love to share our journey with you, I think it will help you out and make you and your family even healthier. Just to let you know, what we're doing is work, but so worth it as we haven't been sick in over two years(not even a cold), and no more allergies. Our journey started two years ago. Please contact me if you'd like to hear our story, because I would love to share to help others!

[Serena]

Hi Juli, I'd love to hear your story and welcome any advice. Please email me whenever you can. Thank you for taking the time to share.

[Chris]

I am gluten free and it took me so long to figure out what the problem was with my constant health problems and all over body inflammation. I am also now dairy free. And I now bake again! The King Arthur Flour web site has a section of gluten free baking recipes so check them out. The brownies are fabulous. I always make those and never tell anyone they are gluten free and everyone raves about them. Good luck. It is a wonderful way to eat and live.

[Jennie]

If you haven't already, check out Danielle Walker's, Against all Grains. She has an amazing story and every recipe that I have tried has turned out really yummy. Good luck and Good health,

[Jennifer]

Serena - I'm so sorry and happy to hear about your journey! I, too, have faced similar stomach problems. Two months after buying The Scoop, 3 years ago, I realized I was very intolerant to dairy. It was causing so many stomach problems, skin issues, and headaches. I immediately cut out dairy and started researching food issues like crazy. I read that by cutting out gluten you could help heal the gut, so I've now been GF for 2 years this month! I feel SOOOO much better and improved my overall well being immensely. However, as the owner of an ice cream/coffee/sweet shop, I struggle with making and selling things I actually can't eat. It's even more heightened by the fact we are next to an elementary school. I have a 14 y.o. daughter with ADD and I have to monitor her diet. Just this month, I've really started thinking about how I can be more authentic with my business. The good news is that we have some awesome homemade GF/DF baked goods, and our coconut milk based ice creams are amazing. And now that we make our ice cream and baked goods on site, we have full control of the ingredients. Our biggest hurdle is the sugar. Baby steps for us. Thank you for sharing your story! PS, you still have a credit at our shop:)

[Suzy Herda Raines]

Thanks for more inspiration. I'm trying but I caved on Thanksgiving. I thought I was doing alright because I got back on the bandwagon. Or so I thought! I had my husband pick me up some gluten free baked goods in Spokane. The pain I've been in is a reminder to watch for the "others" like sugar. Here's to figuring it all out! Happy New Year!

[Adrienne @ Midwestern Belle]

I really enjoy keeping up with you and am so glad you're feeling better. I cleaned up my diet a few years ago, too, and it's made such a huge difference. It's pretty amazing how food can make us feel! Hope 2015 is filled with wonderful things for you!

[Kristy l.]

I'm so sorry you had to feel like you went through that by yourself. I'll bet you found out that most people are very gracious now when they find out you have to be gluten free. You and I are about the same age, and I've always been severely allergic to tree nuts and coconut, and this was when no one had food allergies. But as a child and as I got older, I always had to ask my friends parents or a teacher or whomever was serving me food if there were any nuts in what they were serving. I knew I had to do this or they would be calling the ambulance! I found everyone to be very kind about it, and also surprised because there weren't really any food allergies liked that in the 70s. It usually started a conversation and they were very interested in how I found out and how I avoid foods like that etc.... Anyway, my point is I'm sure you never ever would have been that annoying food allergy person, and I'm sorry you didn't feel like you could open up about it sooner. It's so common now, so you certainly aren't alone, and I'm glad you wrote about it. I so look forward to your healthy recipes to come! Happy happy happy new year to you, Serena!
Love,
Kristy

[Serena]

Hi Chris, I'm so glad you were able to figure out what was ailing you. I appreciate your mention of the brownie recipe. It sounds great. Good luck to you as well.

[Serena]

Thank you for the recommendation, Jennie. Good health to you as well!

[Serena]

Oh my goodness, Jennifer. What an ordeal. I understand wanting to be authentic with what you're doing. It's a big reason I've felt so detached from my blog for quite some time - I just wasn't ready to talk about it. I wish you all the best with your recipe development and want you to know I have so much respect for you and the business you've worked so hard to bring into your vision. Go Jennifer! PS thank you for the credit. What a treat.

[Serena]

Suzy, I hope you're not hard on yourself. Just trying and taking any steps is such a big deal. Good for you! We all have bumps in the road - I hope we can all draw strength from one another. Happy new year to you as well. xo's

[Serena]

You're right, Adrienne, it is pretty amazing what an impact the food we eat has on us. I'm glad to hear you're feeling better. Here's to another year of good health!

[Serena]

Kristy, you're a pioneer! I'm so glad you experienced kindness along the way - it must have been daunting as a child. I'm glad to get to meet you and hear your story. I hope you stay in touch. :)

[Andersenseven]

Serena- Thank you for sharing your story. Stories like this help to inspire. May every day be a good day for you. I love the way you rise above and continue on your journey.
Happy Day

[Shelly Greybeck]

I am a 45 year old mother of 4 and grandmother of 3, and I have been suffering from peripheral neuropathy in my feet for a little over 4 years now. I have been to my primary doctor several times, referred to a neurologist who prescribed different meds with little resolve, referred to a rheumatologist who ran 27 blood tests, and again nothing. Back and forth to my primary, recently referred to a naturopath, and again...nothing. In August I went GF after many hours researching the net as I also had vitiligo on my armpits for over 10 years that was unexplained. I began to see some results finally like a decrease in the vitiligo and less tingling in my feet. In October, I did the Whole30 eating plan and saw even more results. I continue to eat Paleo-ish and make many meals from scratch Only now, my primary and naturopath have agreed I have a gluten sensitivity as I am seeing results from eliminating it. I feel great, have dropped 25 pounds since April and continue to see improvement in my feet. GF items are getting more readily available and there are SO many GF and paleo recipes on the internet. I recently made GF carrot bread that even my very picky husband LOVES! It's nice to realize that life doesn't end because of food (or lack thereof) but rather begins anew with so many possibilities. I have a different relationship with food now. I use it to nourish my body and enjoy every tasty morsel of it!

[Serena]

I love your perspective, Shelly. How wonderful that you're feeling better and how nice to be finding recipes you enjoy. (And your hubby too!)

Congratulations. I'm so happy for you.

[Serena]

Thank you, sweet you. Happy day to you too. P.S. I still can't believe I get to see you in June!

[Sandy]

I am looking forward to seeing your recipes as you post them. I am severely limiting my carb intake after a pre-diabetic diagnosis. I too love to cook and really miss using my favorite recipes.
I have started keeping a Pinterest board for low carb ideas. Here's to a healthy 2015!
http://pinterest.com/featheredcottag/low-carb/

[Serena]

Thanks for sharing your board, Sandy. I'm sure you probably already know this, but just in case you don't, I always try to share that I think water is one of the most important things you can consume, especially with diabetes. I wish you well.

[Lora Bloomquist]

Have enjoyed your instagram posts this past year, but am happy to hear your "voice" again! Thanks for sharing your struggle. Despite bumps along the journey, your artistic view of life through rose-colored glasses is what we all appreciate! Thanks for the time you spend sharing with us.

[Serena]

Lora, thank you. What kind sentiments. I hope you're having a wonderful new year. xo's