Our Journey to Healthier Eating: A Personal Story
Recently, I was asked about when and why I decided to change my food habits. Reflecting on this, I realized it's been over 15 years since we took our diet seriously. Before then, I genuinely believed we were on a healthy diet - baking my own whole wheat bread, enjoying orange juice, consuming oatmeal, and filling our plates with a variety of carbs as recommended by the food pyramid, all while being wary of saturated fat. Little did I know, our diet was far from healthy.
A Wake-Up Call in 2007
Our journey towards healthier eating began in 2007, influenced by our son Ryan and his then-girlfriend, now wife, Christina, who has celiac disease. Initially, adapting to a gluten-free diet seemed daunting. We found ourselves resisting the change with excuses like "it's too hard" or "we're eating fine as it is." Despite these hesitations, I decided to give it a try, embarking on a challenge that would transform our lives.
The Challenge of Going Gluten-Free
Adapting to a gluten-free diet was not without its challenges, especially considering bread was a staple in our breakfast, lunch, and dinner. My husband, Gary, known as "Mr. Bread and Peanut Butter Guy," surprisingly embraced the challenge. As someone who enjoys cooking, I found joy in experimenting with gluten-free recipes, despite the limited guidance and resources available at the time.
Discovering a New Way of Eating
It wasn't until years later that influential books like Grain BrainĀ by Dr. David Perlmutter and Wheat BellyĀ by William Davis were published, offering insights into gluten sensitivity and the effects of carbs on the body. Despite the initial struggle to find tasty gluten-free alternatives, we experienced significant improvements in our overall health, including better sleep, no digestive discomfort, and a noticeable lift in brain fog.
The Benefits of Staying Gluten-Free
Although we don't have medical conditions requiring a gluten-free diet, the benefits are undeniable. Avoiding gluten has led to a lighter feeling, free from brain fog and digestive issues. While I still indulge in the occasional hamburger or french fries, I've become more discerning, often leaving most of the bun untouched.
I was busy but found the time. Nobody else is going to fix your health for you.
Navigating the World of Gluten-Free Products
The market is now flooded with gluten-free products, but not all are healthy. Many are packed with unhealthy carbs, starches, and sugars. Over the years, I've refined my gluten-free cooking, finding nutritious flours and simple recipes that don't compromise on taste.
Beyond Gluten-Free: A Holistic Approach to Health
Our diet has evolved beyond just avoiding gluten. We've eliminated orange juice, sugar, highly processed foods, and industrial seed oils from our diet, focusing instead on nutrient-dense foods like eggs, meat, fish, saturated fats, berries, and vegetables. What we follow isn't a diet but a guide - the Gutbugs Dietā¢ - aimed at maintaining our weight and metabolic health naturally.
Reflections on Our Journey
Looking back, it's astonishing to think about the foods we once consumed. Our journey to healthier eating showcases the resilience of the human body and the importance of making changes before it's too late. Our experience is a testament to the idea that with determination and experimentation, it's possible to find a balanced diet that nourishes the body and soul.
In the end, our transition to healthier eating habits has been a rewarding journey, one that has not only changed our diet but our outlook on life and health.
