G/F & D/F Day 1: And No More Happiness.

I am used to "living without" a lot of things that most Americans rely on: cable, cars, gadgets with apps and internet access at all times, right down to a diet heavily based on pasta, meat and cheese. But when my first visit to the Acupuncturist suggested that I go Gluten-Free for two weeks, I felt like I was given a death sentence. A quick flash of my cupboard flashed before me: the whole wheat breads, pastas, noodles, seitan, Tofurkey slices, wheat grains, desserts; suddenly I was being shifted into that "special diet" category, as if being an almost-vegan wasn't challenging enough at times out in the world.

Bread is so good and soft that I often want to bury my face right into it, pasta was a family staple growing up in my Italian-American household, and most common brands of vodka (my favorite alcohol beverage, with it's clear-looking innocence) are even made from this glutenous grain. Forget your average barely-made beer. Forget the bars, restaurants, and sliding by on anything-Parmesan'a at family events. You are now, certifiably, an outcast.

Never one to be defeated by a challenge, especially one involving food, I decided to document my journey here to keep me on tack and even have a little fun with this. So here I go on this dietary prescription that I was handed over to me, and sent on my way into the crisp January air:

No gluten, no dairy, no white sugars, no white flour... for two whole weeks.

Ok, the challenge is officially on.

(above photo) For lunch: two types of steamed kale, Native Forest artichoke hearts, avocado, French lentils, olive oil & lime, and a side of Rice Works chips.

I immediately had to reassess my inventory. Hiding all the "wheat" products (of which there were many), while putting all of my new "rice" and "quinoa" blended products into full view. I did notice a higher price tag that came with these special-needs foods, but I don't think two weeks is going to break the bank. There is, however, an underlining question that still remains: what if this elimination of these foods actually clears up my allergies and make me feel amazing and full of vibrant energy? Is this a lifetime full of special needs and bigger grocery bills!?

Ok, maybe I am putting the cart before the horse. Let's get back to the food:Let me just say that these amazing chips from Rice Works are worth the extra rave. I haven't tasted a better chip in a long time, gluten or not, so this brand for me is already here to stay. I bought Salsa Fresco, but now I want to try every flavor!

(above photo) For dinner: Food for Life sprouted corn tortilla "pizza" with roasted tomatoes in olive oil and basil, Galaxy brand Rice Vegan mozzarella cheese, and a side of steamed broccoli with walnut "bread"crumbs (grounded walnut, Red Star nutritional yeast flakes, and Himalayan pink salt).

Never skimp on dessert. Can't have white sugar, dairy or gluten? Try Coconut Bliss dark chocolate flavored pops sweetened with Agave Nectar. They are just like the ones you had when you were a kid; chocolate-covered puckered lips afterward and all. Delicious!