Jennifer Fugo, CNS

Jennifer Fugo’s Blog

Latest Posts from the Blog

Get the latest from Jennifer on all things digestive health, diet, and more!

grilled vegetarian sandwich on white plate and marble table with glass of water and lemon slice

Greens & Sprouts Gluten Free Melt

There’s absolutely nothing like perfectly crisp bread… especially when the melded flavors remind you of spring! Together, you have a beautiful gluten free melt exploding with glorious green tones accented by pinkish purple. Who wouldn’t want to try this amazing vegetarian gluten free melt? When I was asked to create…

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Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Grain-Free Muffins

I’ve fallen in love… and it’s with Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Grain Free Muffins! They’ve been a dessert staple since I started making them about 6 months ago. For those of you following me for some time now, you know that I was originally making these with a gluten free box mix. However… I’ve…

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Herbed Polenta Recipe (with a Vegan Option)

You can take the girl out of Italy, but you can’t take Italy out of the girl, right? That’s why I can’t totally part ways with this polenta recipe that I started making about ten years ago. I’d honestly not tried polenta until after I went gluten-free. It was mentioned…

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Balsamic Roasted Green Beans With Pomegranate & Goat Cheese

Christmas cooking can be overwhelming. A few years ago, I came up with balsamic roasted green beans! Truth be told, my mom’s stovetop was completely full… and none would be available any time soon to get this dish on the table in time for dinner. I decided to work with…

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80 Best Gluten Free Desserts For The Holidays

It’s that time of year when you spend time scouring the internet for the best gluten free desserts for the holidays. Well, don’t worry… I did that for you! One of the reasons that I made this list is because it’s no fun being unable to fully participate in the…

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All-Natural Cold And Flu Season Remedies

As the cooler weather sets in, you’re probably wondering what cold and flu season remedies you can be ready with the moment that scratchy throat strikes. There are a few that I use that I’d love to share with you! The truth is, I hate getting sick. It can take…

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Cashew Butter Gluten Free Granola Recipe

Call me weird, but I love finding the big crunchy clusters in any granola mix! And the same can be said of the one I make at home — Cashew Butter Gluten Free Granola. This recipe was born when my husband and I decided to go on a credit card…

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How To Dramatically Improve Your Digestive Health

In my ongoing mission to help you stop fearing and blaming food for everything, we have to spend a moment talking about optimizing your digestive function. Healthy digestive function is critical because it determines how well your body can digest AND absorb nutrients. It requires that every step of digestion…

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Homemade Spicy Marinara Sauce (Vegan)

There’s nothing quite like homemade spicy marinara sauce. It’s fair to say that I’m a pasta sauce snob because I grew up with two grandmothers who both made marinara fresh every week. Both were fantastic home cooks having learned the ropes of the kitchen from their Italian mothers who immigrated…

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Gluten Free Italian Panini

My first gluten free Italian panini was life-changing! Tucked away on a side street of Florence, Italy, we discovered a quaint gluten free bakery. Inside, we were surrounded with tantalizing pastries, pizza, and paninis that looked just as good as they tasted. I spent a good bit of time picking the one gluten…

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Three Problems With Probiotics (No One Tells You)

Cindy woke up feeling as if her brain was floating in a swamp. The past few days had been rough with lots of digestive issues and brain fog. Not to mention, she was moody as heck. Actually, moody was an understatement. Cindy’s husband would describe her mood as highly variable.…

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Simple Stone Fruit Salad Recipe

Run-of-the-mill fruit salads are so old. Why not try making this stone fruit salad recipe that offers a twist of both color and flavor? Think about it… How often do you dive into a pretty pastel-colored fruit salad only to discover that there’s virtually no flavor? Pretty often. The reason…

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Demystifying Liver Detox (And What To Do Instead): GFS Podcast 098

In my opinion, the term “detoxing” is thrown around way too much. (Especially liver detox!) It seems like every other product released into the marketplace is detoxing something. Your skin… Your gut… Your liver… Your blood… Your lymphatic system… The list goes on and on. But one thing has become…

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Cherry Protein Shake (With A Twist)

Why not get your daily protein shake in with a hit of delicious cherries? This recipe is my fun twist to the traditional cherry protein shake that’s great for both hair and skin. What’s the twist? *grin* I won’t say just yet. But I promise you that this odd ingredient gives the…

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Vegan Lime Coleslaw

One of the easiest recipes in my arsenal comes from my days (many years ago) living in Costa Rica. This Vegan Lime Coleslaw was used as a side to a meal or to top various meat dishes. It’s one of my favorite summertime dishes because it’s light, inexpensive, and compliments…

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Build A Healthy Gut By Starting In Your Mouth

Did you know — the gut microbiome is all the rage these days. But what’s often overlooked is that to build a healthy gut, you’ve got to start with your mouth. That’s right! Your mouth has a microbiome too. And it needs more attention than simply brushing your teeth twice…

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Burger Salad Recipe

Summers just scream burgers to me… but it’s pretty uncommon to find good gluten free buns that don’t fall apart. That’s how I came up with this burger salad recipe! For a long time, I used to make lettuce wraps, but they can get wilted and fall apart from the heat…

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Healthy Tuna Salad Recipe (Egg-Free Option)

When I was a kid, I have fond memories of helping my great-aunts make a healthy tuna salad recipe that happened to include relish. If you’ve never had relish in your tuna salad, you’re missing out. I have no idea why it’s good… but it is. 🙂 And the adult…

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Probiotics for Your Skin: Part 2 of the Skin Microbiome Series

You’ve heard about the health benefits of taking probiotic pills and eating fermented foods. A healthy gut microbiome depends on a happy microbial balance and that means incorporating probiotics into your diet. But what about using probiotics for your skin? Instead of fighting painful skin rashes like eczema and psoriasis…

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Italian Pear Walnut Salad Recipe

“This is the most amazing salad I’ve ever had,” I recall saying as my sister and I dined at a tiny “hole in the wall” restaurant in Florence, Italy back in 2003. To this day, I still adore and make my own from the pear walnut salad recipe that she and…

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Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Recipe

Many years ago, I was introduced to a variation of what is now the slow cooker Mexican Chicken that you’ll find here. Over the years, I refined the recipe and have shared it with thousands of clients. By far, this Mexican Chicken recipe has been one of the most popular…

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Thyroid Skin Rashes: The Hidden Connection No One Talks About

If you’re suffering from dry, itchy, flaky skin or have psoriasis or eczema, you probably haven’t thought about how your thyroid is involved. Why would you? When you’re dealing with something as conspicuous, annoying, and painful as skin rashes, it’s difficult to think about anything other than getting rid of…

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Italian Wedding Soup (GF, DF, Paleo-option)

Italian Wedding Soup is a long-time favorite recipe that my mom used to make. As a kid, she’d serve it throughout the year, but it would always make a special appearance at Easter dinner. It’s a beautiful golden broth with rich greens and small meatballs. Just thinking about it brings…

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Surprising Reasons Why Medicine For Eczema Won’t Work

Eczema is a deeply misunderstood condition. As a result, the often-prescribed medicine for eczema won’t solve the underlying problems that keep triggering a flare. Instead, these eczema medications are often more of a band-aid that keeps you frustratingly stuck in a never-ending cycle of managing your skin. We spend so…

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How Long Does It Take To Get Better?: GFS Podcast 092

I never wondered how long does it take to get better when I figured realized I was sick. Back in 2007, I felt like I was an elderly person. I didn’t feel like myself and knew inside that something was very wrong. Doctors told me that I was fine. Maybe…

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Salmon Salad with Almond Butter Dressing

You’re about to thank me. Here’s your next delicious lunch — Salmon Salad with Almond Butter Dressing! I have to be honest, it’s not my recipe. I saw this picture shared by my friend Cameo Pierce on Instagram and just had to share it with you. Fortunately, she said yes…

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Lazy Turkey & Bacon Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

Did you know that your crock pot is perfect for making chili? I had no idea until recently when I came across a slow cooker chili recipe online. Make it was incredibly simple and I didn’t have to worry about it overcooking on the stove all day. But then I…

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Your Definitive Guide to Eczema Treatment + 7 Remedies That Actually Work

Eczema is an overwhelming skin condition that affects over 30 million Americans and you probably feel like it’s pretty tough to find an eczema treatment plan that works. Dry, itchy, scaly skin, rashes, lesions, and blemishes caused by eczema are incredibly frustrating and even embarrassing. They can send you on an exhaustive…

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Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Beef Stew Recipe

Hardy “stick to your ribs” types of meals like my slow cooker sweet potato beef stew are perfect for the colder months. Especially after the overindulgent holidays where you likely ate too much sugar and rich foods. I literally throw this into the crockpot day after Christmas because it’s the perfect…

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5 Tips To Survive A Gluten-Free Holiday

I expected my very first holiday being gluten free to be a total bust. At the time, I didn’t have any strategies or gluten free holiday tips to rely on. Instead, I expected to hit a bunch of “speed bumps” pretty hard. Yes, I was embarrassed by a relative who mocked my diet…

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120 Best Gluten Free Christmas Recipes

Christmas is right around the corner. Have you figured out what gluten free Christmas recipes you plan to make? It can certainly be tough if you still miss those traditional recipes that are now off limits. What’s worse is watching everyone else eat them because you didn’t think (nor plan)…

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Moist Gluten Free Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

If you’ve ever been turned off by dry turkey meatloaf, don’t worry… I’ve got you covered. My gluten free turkey meatloaf recipe is incredibly moist with a flavor reminiscent of turkey soup. Plus, it’s free of eggs and dairy if they’re on your avoid list. For the longest time after going…

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Apple Cashew Salad Recipe

If you know me, you know that I love salads, and my Apple Cashew Salad Recipe is definitely at the top of my list! It’s actually perfect for any season of the year (though for some reason I tend to make it more in the Autumn). Pairing together apples and…

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Do I Have SIBO?: Hidden Signs & Symptoms Behind Your IBS

Have you caught yourself wondering “Do I have SIBO?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s becoming a more common question as people get fed up with the lame “You just have IBS” response from GI doctors. Especially since many aren’t getting any help at all from their doctors.spending years suffering…

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Sleepy Milk Recipe (To Help You Fall and Stay Asleep)

Have you laid in bed hoping to fall asleep, but sleep seems the furthermost thing from your mind? Often attributed to adrenal fatigue, nighttime restlessness is a serious problem that even I struggled with. The answer? This Sleepy Milk Recipe. Passed down to me by an Ayurvedic practitioner and then…

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MTHFR, Methylation & Hashimoto’s with Dr. Eric Balcavage: GFS Podcast 089

There’s an interesting overlap to MTHFR, Methylation, and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. One that should not be overlooked or ignored. Methylation and Hashimoto’s are two big topics on their own, but I wanted to know if some sort of connection exists. If so, then hypothyroid suffers should know because methylation challenges should…

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5 Reasons Why Your Rash Won’t Go Away (That No One Tells You)

Your rash won’t go away… Horrible reddish patches of itchy, flaky skin just looking to be triggered any moment now are wrecking your life. Beach or pool time? Nope. Exercise? Sorry… sweat probably makes it worse (and then you’ll have to shower sooner which dries it out even more). Summer…

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Slow Cooker Balsamic Shredded Beef (GF, DF, Paleo)

One of my most favorite easy meals is slow cooker balsamic shredded beef! The reason it’s so easy is because it comes come with a laundry list of ingredients or steps in order to churn out some ridiculously delicious meat. While I enjoy cooking, I don’t have a ton of…

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Gluten Free S’mores Pudding Cups Recipe

One of my fondest memories of summer includes making s’mores around the grill after dinner. But going gluten free in 2008 definitely put a stop to this practice. Thanks to this simple recipe, these fun gluten free s’mores pudding cups bring back fond memories! Summer is all about getting people…

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Gluten Intolerance Mouth Symptoms You Need To Know

Have you ever wondered how your mouth could be affected by gluten? The answer is yes, and there are gluten intolerance mouth symptoms that you can look for in the mirror. You can also have your dentist look for them at your next dental appointment. Believe it or not, dentists…

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Low Carb Turkey Tacos Recipe

Nothing says “simple meal” to me quite like low carb turkey tacos. They’re so easy to whip up after a crazy day or for when you’ve pretty low on energy. They’re naturally gluten free too which means that everyone else at the table will be happy. A common question I get from…

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Dairy Free Shamrock Shake Recipe

If you loved the special shamrock shake typically available only for St. Patty’s day, I’ve got a treat for you! Ditch the junk and chemicals for this dairy free shamrock shake recipe I’m sharing today. It’s nutrient dense and a much better start to your day (or a boost to…

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Leaky Gut Program – 7 Reasons Why You Don’t Feel Better

Are you convinced that you’ve got a leaky gut? Just about every wellness website today talks about the dangers of leaky gut syndrome. And I’ll bet you’ve read how a leaky gut program will mend your belly. Makes sense, yes? The type of leaky gut program you’ll discover depends on who you…

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Creamy Sweet Potato Smoothie Recipe (dairy-free)

Sometimes a gal needs a change, right? Even though it’s pretty common to use fruit as the carb source in a smoothie, I started to mix things up last year. That’s how I accidentally created this creamy dairy free sweet potato smoothie recipe. It’s so amazingly good and perfect for…

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Mini Gluten Free Pizza Recipe

Sometimes you just feel like pizza, right? Me too. After getting fed up waiting too long for it to be made or paying way too much, I came up with this simple mini gluten free pizza recipe. It’s simple enough… no fancy bells or whistles. No real culinary skills required…

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Gluten Free Cashew Cream Pie (No Bake Recipe)

I love a good pie. Especially a no bake pie like this gluten free cashew cream pie that takes minutes to assemble. And requires very few ingredients (another plus!). I had this idea some time ago after an experiment with So Delicious’s CocoWhip product went deliciously right. Thus, the vision…

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70+ Best Gluten Free Thanksgiving Recipes and Meal Ideas

If you’re worried that your Thanksgiving will never be the same again, I’ve got good news! I’ve gathered over 70 of the best gluten free Thanksgiving recipes and meal ideas to turn your turkey day into a delicious experience. So delicious that you (along with everyone else) won’t even notice that…

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How to Reverse Autoimmune Disease With Diet: GFS Podcast 085

No, you aren’t crazy. It is absolutely possible to reverse autoimmune disease with diet changes. Before you think you’ve found your silver bullet, know that taking the dietary and lifestyle change route is a long game. It’s certainly possible to feel improvements within days, but it doesn’t mean that your…

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How to Reverse Fibromyalgia with Dr. David Brady: GFS Podcast 084

Fibromyalgia is a debilitating, chronic illness. It steals the joy from your life and prevents you from caring for your family and home the way you’d like. Heck, chronic fibromyalgia even make it a total struggle to make it to and through work. I know some people who’ve ended up leaving their job and…

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Paleo Vegetable Frittata Breakfast Recipe

Looking to get out of a breakfast rut? Hate smoothies or shakes? I’ve got the perfect Sunday meal for you to make that can turn into a couple of extra days leftovers –> a Paleo Vegetable Frittata. Fri-what? Frittata. It’s really like a lazy person’s omelet. You mix all the…

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Perfect Oven Steamed Salmon Recipe

I hate dried out cooked salmon. And yet… that’s all I seemed to cook and I couldn’t figure out why. I spent the past year in search of the best way to cook salmon only to discover that my mom had the perfect oven steamed salmon recipe. She nailed it…

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Top 6 Gluten Free Sunscreens (most up to date list)

With one of the biggest worries this summer being how to avoid getting burned out in the sun, have you ever wondered about your suntan lotion? The tough truth is that few (yes, few) can be accurately labeled as gluten free sunscreens. To be honest, I didn’t realize that nearly…

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The Final Word: Are Buffets Safe If You’re Gluten Free?

Does the word “buffet” make you nervous? If it hasn’t yet, it should. You’re not alone in asking the question “are buffets safe if you’re gluten free?” Since food sensitivities or food allergies can make you feel rather limited in your options, it’s common to think that a buffet is…

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Definitive List Of Ingredients Containing Gluten

Wishing you had a good list of ingredients containing gluten? Now you do thanks to this post. I’ve been long asked to share a list of what ingredients contain gluten and decided to put one together for after seeing that many different lists were missing key ingredients that I’ve included here.…

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Paleo Ginger Beef Stir Fry Recipe

When you go gluten free, it’s not exactly easy to get gluten free asian food. Soy sauce (which is not gluten free) is added to much of it and while some restaurants have offered to use gluten free tamari if I bring it in with me, I don’t trust the…

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Before Taking Antidepressants, Consider This with Kelly Brogan MD: GFSP 075

Have you ever felt depressed? Depressed enough to ask for and take medication? Before taking antidepressants, I want you to consider that they aren’t just easy-to-pop little pills guaranteed to make you feel better. Despite what all the happy TV commercials say, the side effects and long-term implications can be pretty troubling.…

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How to Be a Better Patient with Amie Valpone: GFS Podcast 074

After taking a bit of a hiatus, I’m back with Season 2 of the Gluten Free School Podcast that I’m calling “How to Be a Better Patient.” Each episode will focus around one step that you can do before, during and after your visits to see better, more efficient results…

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Gluten Sensitivity vs Gluten Intolerance: What’s the Difference?

Have you ever wondered what’s the difference between gluten sensitivity vs gluten intolerance? The terms are used interchangeably even by functional practitioners which would make you think that a sensitivity and an intolerance are the same thing. The problem is that they aren’t. Each term speaks to very different mechanisms…

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50 Signs of Gluten Sensitivity

It’s no wonder that people will suffer for literally years with gluten sensitivity and go undiagnosed when you consider that there’s something like 250 different signs and symptoms of gluten sensitivity. There are certainly some that I find to be generally more surprising than others. However if you have no choice other…

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Vegan Eggnog Smoothie

There’s something about those flavors of eggnog that are so delicious, but when eggs and dairy don’t work with your tummy anymore, eggnog is the first holiday favorite on the chopping block. It has to be… most recipes require multiple eggs and sometimes two different types of dairy products in…

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Vegan Chocolate Cream (in less than 5 minutes)

Have you ever allowed not having a certain piece of kitchen equipment to stop you from making something in the kitchen? I have, but as I peered into my pantry one chilly morning last year looking for something sweet, I decided I’d try to make my own version of paleo…

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Easy Gluten Free Vegan Crepes

I remember crepes from my pre-gluten free days. My husband and I used to have this favorite crepe restaurant in Philadelphia, but we had to stop going one I learned I was intolerant to gluten. To my surprise, I’ve now got a fantastic and easy gluten free vegan crepe recipe…

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Gluten Free Lasagna (with Paleo & Dairy Free options)

I’ll bet you’d love a piece of this gluten free lasagna… I mean, how could you not? It looks quite tasty. Now for those who know that I’m not a fan of eating lots of rice pasta, I’ve come to discover that not only can you easily make a lasagna…

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CrockPot Rotisserie Chicken Recipe

One of my most favorite and easy go-to recipes is this crockpot rotisserie chicken recipe. I had heard that it was pretty simple to make your own in a slow cooker, but I wanted to see for myself. Once you get the swing of this recipe, you can assemble it…

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10 Things to Know Before Going Gluten Free

Thinking about going gluten free or know that you need to do it? Before you become convinced by anyone that going gluten free has magical powers and will poof away all of your woos, I’ve got a few words of advice to share that you probably won’t read anywhere else.…

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Gluten Free Vegan Ice Cream Sandwiches

I have fond memories of ice cream sandwiches as a kid, but I’d not had one that I could actually eat in over 7 years. Food sensitivities can really put a cramp in your diet until you figure out how to enjoy eating food again from cleaner, healthier sources. That…

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Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp (GF, DF)

While thai food can be an excellent option for eating gluten free, most thai restaurants use soy sauce (which contains wheat). However, you can easily make some delicious thai dishes at home that are healthier and gluten free. Most love a good curry which is why I wanted to share…

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Why Eating Organic is Important with André Leu: GFS Podcast 071

Have you found yourself staring at some produce at the grocery store, one row is organic and the other is not, unable to justify the added cost of the organic option? While I’m all for finding creative ways to buy better quality foods, sometimes you’ve got to understand the distinct value…

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Vegan Peach Ice Cream (GF, DF, Paleo option)

Perfectly ripe peaches are amazing and they can be quickly turned into a creamy, vegan peach ice cream in a matter of minutes. Minutes, you say? Yes, minutes and it’s really good. So good that guests whom I served this to never knew, nor guessed that it was vegan… and…

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How To Make Fruit Last Longer

Have you ever opened up your fridge looking for those berries you bought 2 days ago and they’re covered with mold? Or how about an $8 container of organic raspberries… loaded with mold? This is one of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to buying fresh fruit (specifically berries).…

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30 Best Gluten Free Recipes for a Summer Picnic

The warm weather is finally here again and I see a gluten free picnic (or two) in your future!  That means dusting off the grill, eating outdoors, attending pool parties, and all that the glorious summer fun that gets turned into great memories. Rather than leave you scrambling for some wonderful…

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Paleo Strawberry Mousse Pie (It’s Vegan Too!)

If you love perfectly sun-ripened strawberries, allow us to share with you a no-bake, paleo strawberry mousse pie that’s a healthier dessert than anything you’ll buy at the store. Fresh, simple ingredients create this creamy whipped pie dessert that’s so easy to make! Bright red, deliciously sweet strawberries are a…

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10 Ways You’re Getting Glutened By Your Kitchen

Do you keep getting sick and feel like you’re getting glutened, but you can’t figure out where the problem is? Even if you eat at home, it’s very likely to come in contact with gluten even if your ingredients are 100% gluten free. Aside from developing other new food sensitivities,…

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Chipotle Salmon with Arugula Salad

Salmon is such a great choice for a lean and healthy protein option. It can be easily dressed up depending on how you season it as well as simple to cook. With an interesting flavor combo that’s sure to please, Chipotle Salmon is easy enough to make for dinner (and…

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Gluten Free Gardening: 10 Tips to Get Started This Year

Have you ever complained that eating gluten free is too expensive? Even fresh produce (especially organic) can kill your budget. That’s why the absolute best answer for the safest and healthiest food is gluten free gardening. Come on… get your hands dirty! Plus, you can create a garden anywhere you want! You…

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5 Ways to Eat Greens (Even If You Hate Them!)

“At one point, I hated eating green food. It just looked wrong on my plate growing up as a kid. While I liked pesto (yes, also green, yet apparently less bothersome to me), the rest was relatively gross until my mature years where I actively began seeking out ways to eat…

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Low Bone Density: Here’s What You Need to Know

  Are you scratching your head over what to do about a low bone density diagnosis? You aren’t alone. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 54 million Americans “have low bone density or osteoporosis.” And of the millions with osteoporosis, 80% are women. So combatting low bone density is a cause that should…

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Healthy Vegan Cookie Dough Truffles

I admit it- I definitely ate raw cookie dough while my mom made chocolate chip cookies as a kid. It was just SOOOOO good. But now that gluten, dairy and eggs bother me, I’ve had to find some creative alternatives to enjoying old favorites with a serious healthful boost. Enter…

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Top Gluten Sensitivity Doctors & Practitioners

To find a doctor or practitioner who actually gets what gluten sensitivity is (and believes in it) is a refreshing experience. Too often we’ve heard from members of our community that it took years… 2, 4, 6, 10 years (!!) to finally get straight answers on why they were sick.

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Double Chocolate Panna Cotta (Dairy Free & Egg Free)

A creamy rich Italian dessert with chocolate without dairy & eggs?  Here is the most amazing Double Chocolate Panna Cotta of your dreams! With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, scheming up the perfect dessert when you’ve got sensitivities to dairy and eggs (on top of gluten) to celebrate doesn’t have to…

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Surprising Ways Gluten Messes Up Your Skin

If you’ve ever wondered if something you eat could affect your skin… the answer is yes. Can gluten affect your skin? Absolutely. Your skin is the largest organ of your body and plays a key role in protecting your body from harm against toxins, bacteria, viruses, UV light and general…

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Crockpot Savory Italian Pork Roast

Love fast and easy recipes? Love your Crockpot? Then you’re in luck! Warm up your winter menu or jazz up your everyday with this super easy and savory Italian Pork Roast! With all the authentic flavors of Italy packed into tender melt-in-your-mouth roasted pork, this recipe is a family crowd-pleaser. Fresh…

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Chocolate Truffle Pudding Pie (Dairy-free)

What better way to add to your gluten-free holiday baking menu than incorporating an easy, delicious, no-bake GF dessert? Our Chocolate Truffle Pudding Pie is the ideal way to indulge over the holidays (or even on a Tuesday) and feel more or less guilt free! And can we mention it’s full of rich…

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10 Tips to Avoid Getting Glutened This Holiday Season

Would you like some hidden gluten with your dinner?  Of course not! If you’re like us, we do whatever we can to avoid getting glutened during the holidays. With all the hustle and bustle, holiday parties, time with loved ones, and even working overtime, getting glutened is definitely not part…

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Flourless Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes with Coconut Whipped Frosting (Paleo)

Want a perfect holiday dessert that won’t leave you feeling deprived or guilty? Look no further my friends! We’ve created these amazingly moist and flavorful Flourless Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes with Coconut Vanilla Whipped Frosting that will make even your gluten-eating guests ask for more! What makes these pumpkin cupcakes different from…

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Stuffed Acorn Squash with Spanish Quinoa Recipe

If you can’t get enough of seasonal fall dishes, stuffed acorn squash is the answer! It’s sometimes overlooked in lieu of pumpkin based recipes, but I’m here to tell you to cash in on this autumn gem. Flavorful stuffed acorn squash with spicy Spanish style quinoa is zesty and comforting, as…

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Zucchini Pasta

Are you looking for a convenient way to make some gluten-free pasta without all the processed gluten-free flour? How about making zucchini ‘pasta’?  Though I never heard of it until more recently, I’m in love! You can either purchase a spiralizer or just a simple veggie peeler you probably use for…

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Ignite Your Gluten-Free Revolution + GF Quiche Recipe

Let’s start a revolution, yes? As the gluten-free diet has been tarnished publicly as being one of the “worst fads in 2013″, let’s show those hating on our way of living that there are some pretty cool aspects to it!  It’s neither a fad nor all bad and some (like…

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Fried Plantains

Straight from the tropical jungles of Jamaica, I’m personally sharing with you this incredibly simple recipe that’s both sweet, satisfying and a tasty addition to your dinner! Now I’m sure you saw the word “Fried” and thought “Jen, come on!  You’re into healthy stuff and you’re now telling me to…

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Refined Salt vs Sea Salt: 5 Reasons to go Natural

One of the big health arguments is over a simple dinner table commodity known simply as “salt”. But the question constantly asked is which is better: refined salt vs sea salt? It turns out that all salt is not created equal, my friends. Two distinctly different categories exist in the…

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Vegan Blueberry Yogurt (Nut-Free)

Want to make homemade yogurt without having to wait for it to culture? What if I shared with you my easy, 3-minute vegan blueberry yogurt recipe that’s also paleo, gluten-free, no added sugar and nut-free? I know… it’s exciting, right? This recipe is easily crafted in a food processor and literally…

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How the Gluten Autoimmune Connection Hurts Your Thyroid

The Gluten Autoimmune Connection… have you heard of it?  Did you know that it can totally wreck your thyroid health? That said… do you have any idea how gluten and overly processed gluten-free foods play a role?  The truth can be rather scary because many believe just cutting out gluten…

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Easy Zucchini Pasta with Garden Marinara Recipe

  Looking for a healthier take on pasta without the guilt? While you might only be familiar with gluten-free pastas on the market, you can quickly and easily create your own gluten-free and grain-free zucchini pasta at home. As you can see from the picture to your left, it even…

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How to Travel Gluten Free with Kim Koeller: GFS Podcast 047

This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast chats with author and world traveler expert Kim Koeller who will dish on how to travel gluten free (especially to international locations). She’s racked up an incredible amount of frequent flier miles zooming all across the globe and now share her experience eating an allergy-friendly diet…

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Delicious Grilled Veggie Salad Recipe

There’s one way to get everyone to eat more vegetables – make them taste irresistible! My secret is to grill vegetables that might not be a crowd’s most favorite choice and dress them so that they’re sweet and compliment the meal so well that they go back for seconds. That’s…

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Paleo Mousse: 4 Easy Whipped Fruit Recipes

Desserts don’t always have to be bad for you. I’d argue that there are very intelligent ways to make a small combination of fresh foods taste incredibly special and suited to the category of dessert. That’s where my recipe for whipped fruit paleo mousse comes in! Honestly, this recipe came about partly…

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Gluten Thyroid Issues with Datis Kharrazian: GFS Podcast 044

  This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast chats with Datis Kharrazian, DC, author, teacher and researcher into the relationships between gluten and how it affects the thyroid and brain.  Datis’ claim to fame was authoring a fantastic book about gluten thyroid issues called “Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms? When…

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Dairy & (Naturally) Gluten Free Pesto

No matter how you use it, dairy and (naturally) gluten free pesto is just one of the most divine additions to nearly any meal. This gem of a spread, topping, dip, sauce or however else you’d love to use it was a favorite item made by my mom while growing up.…

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The Paleo Kitchen Cookbook with George Bryant & Juli Bauer: GFS Podcast 043

This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast chats with The Paleo Kitchen Cookbook authors George Bryant and Juli Bauer.  You may know them as the creators of their respective websites CivilizedCavemanCreations.com and PaleOMG.com.  However today, they’re dishing on how to have fun in the kitchen, kick refined gluten-free products out of your diet…

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Sautéed Tomato Discs

Sometimes recipe ideas fall into your lap like raindrops. And that’s just what happened on this warm summer day.  I rushed to the Farmer’s Market after teaching my Saturday morning yoga class and found only a handful of stands left with fresh pickings to sell.  Fortunately, the two I visited…

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What is Xanthan Gum Made From? (HINT- It’s really gross!)

Have you wondered what is Xanthan Gum made from? Maybe you’ve seen it in the ingredients label of a gluten free food product. You certainly wouldn’t be alone in questioning what it’s made from, and whether you should even be eating it. Truthfully, I didn’t even question it until a…

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Sweet & Savory Strawberry Avocado Salad

If you love sweet strawberries, you’ll love Sweet & Savory Strawberry Avocado Salad. It’s simple, clean and happens to be naturally gluten-free, vegan and paleo. Oh yeah, and it’s delicious! I created this salad last summer after buying some organic, locally-grown, sun-ripened strawberries. They were so good that I decided…

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Gluten Free Restaurant Menus: Ready to Watch Them Disappear?

“Sorry, we no longer offer a gluten free menu” is a phrase you’ll likely hear more frequently as gluten free restaurant menus quietly disappear. Even many restaurants that were once toying with the idea of offering gluten free dishes have since scratched their plans to do so. Let’s be clear…

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Gluten Free Guacamole — aka. “Crack-amole”

Do you love guacamole?  Allow me to introduce you to “Crack-amole”.  It’s the nickname of my gluten free guacamole recipe dubbed by my friends who demand that I bring it to every dinner and party they host.  The recipe is oddly famous and I’m often asked to share how to…

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Top Gluten Free Wedding Registry Ideas

If you’re gluten-free and getting married, now is the time to wisely stock your wedding registry. Though there’s plenty of talk about how to create a gluten free wedding, little is mentioned about what you should ask for! I cannot stress how important making the right choices for your registry are!…

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Gluten Free Juicing & Cleansing with Leanne Vogel: GFS Podcast 038

This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast welcomes Leanne Vogel from Healthful Pursuit to the show to talk about gluten free juicing and cleansing.  She’s a total pro and demystifies what everyone need to know about gluten free juicing before you run out and buy a home juicer. The following points were discussed:…

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Why I Went Paleo & How to Make it Easy

“I’ve got to give up more food?!?!” is what ran through my mind a year ago.  As if it wasn’t enough to already be gluten-free, now I’d need to part with my friend Legumes (aka. beans) as well as the final Grains in my diet (rice and quinoa).  That’s what…

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How to Keep Your Gluten-Free Kids Safe: GFS Podcast 37

Do you worry that your gluten free kids could get glutened at school or at a friend’s home? This is a very real concern shared by many parents (even those beyond the gluten-free space who also deal with food allergies). Keeping your gluten free kids safe and healthy is your…

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How Ibuprofen (and other NSAIDs) lead to Gluten Sensitivity

Would you ever suspect that those seemingly harmless over-the-counter pills for aches and pains were wrecking your digestive system? If you’ve got gluten sensitivity, ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory drugs can be a contributing factor to gluten sensitivity while tending to sore muscles, sprains or backaches. What’s even more surprising — if the…

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How Gluten Impacts Mental Health with Kelly Brogan, MD: GFS Podcast 035

How Gluten Impacts Mental Health with Kelly Brogan, MD This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast episode will cover these topics: 00:28 — Introducing Dr. Kelly Brogan who shares her experience with postpartum thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s) and how this led her to reexamine diet’s connection with brain health. She is passionate about…

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Gluten-Free CrockPot Chicken Soup Recipe

If you love soup but hate waiting a long time for it to cook, have I got the recipe for you! My crockpot chicken soup recipe is the solution that you MUST try. The reasons are… 1. It’s super easy to make and can be prepped in under 10 minutes.…

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Healthy Gluten Free Super Bowl Snacks Everyone Will Love

Who says that every Super Bowl party’s got to be filled with total and complete crap?  I believe that you can totally indulge during the biggest football game of the year with healthy gluten free Super Bowl snacks and drinks that everyone (even the gluten-eaters) will love. Healthy Gluten Free…

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Gluten, Neurotransmitters & Anxiety with Beverly Meyer: GFS Podcast 032

How Gluten Affects Neurotransmitters & Anxiety with Beverly Meyer This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast episode will cover these topics: 01:17 – Introducing clinical and holistic nutritionist, Beverly Meyer. Learn how she took charge of chronic, severe anxiety, leading to her life’s work of helping others attain optimum health through…

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Goat Cheese & Asparagus Quiche Cups with Caramelized Onions

Let’s start a revolution, yes? As the gluten-free diet has been tarnished publicly as being one of the “worst fads in 2013”, let’s show those hating on our way of living that there are some pretty cool aspects to it!  It’s neither a fad nor all bad and some (like…

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Who’s the Gluten-Free Leader?

I’ve spent the past month contemplating where my journeys in gluten-free advocacy have take me (and us as a community) over the past year. This time of reflection has helped me to see that we have made tremendous strides in getting the gluten-free lifestyle recognized in ways that have had…

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Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Pumpkin Pie Pudding

How about some Gluten Free Dairy Free Pumpkin Pie Pudding?  Of course you’ll have some!  Like you, I love ANYTHING pumpkin! My partner-in-crime & co-host for the Gluten-Free Sugar Cleanse (Heather K. Terry) made this incredible gluten free dairy free pumpkin pie pudding for me while I was visiting her in NYC while…

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How to Love Living Gluten-Free with Danna Korn: GFS Podcast 030

How to Love Living Gluten-Free with Danna Korn This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast episode will cover these topics: 01:56 – Introducing Danna Korn. Find out why she got ‘fired’ from 3 pediatricians before one finally took her son’s symptoms seriously. 06:38 – Why the gluten-free diet is such a…

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Tackle the Holidays like a Gluten-Free Pro

Do you miss the days when the holidays felt carefree and you could eat anything? I sure do and I’m willing to bet that you might as well. That’s you need the gluten free holiday survival tips I’ve learned over the years. Though there are many homecooked, Italian family favorites that…

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Gluten Free Autoimmune Diet with Nora Gedgaudas: GFS Podcast 029

Gluten Free Autoimmune Diet with Nora Gedgaudas This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast episode discusses the problems that gluten can cause and why a gluten free autoimmune diet can help you feel better. We will cover these topics: 01:24 – Introducing Nora Gedgaudas, a sought-after expert in the Paleo world.…

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Gluten-Free Holiday Gift Ideas

If you’re at a loss for what to buy gluten-free folks in your life, I’ve got some great gluten free holiday gift ideas that they’ll love.  Though I will be honest and admit up front that pretty much all of these gifts revolve in some way, shape or form around…

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How to Regain Natural Energy with Yuri Elkaim – GFS Podcast 028

Gluten Free Diet Energy Levels Return Naturally with Yuri Elkaim Listen as Yuri and I discuss why gluten and wheat rob you of energy and how to finally feel alive again.  The gluten free diet energy levels can be naturally higher than what you previously experienced when eating gluten. This…

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Gluten-Free Sugar-Free Coconut Almond Bark

Even though the holidays literally SCREAM dessert and overly decadent foods, you can still indulge in sweets without it undoing your entire diet.  It’s all about making a healthy gluten free paleo vegan dessert… and there is such a thing. I’d like to introduce you to Leanne Vogel, Holistic Nutritionist and…

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Gluten Free Dairy Free Diet Changes Made Easy

“First you went gluten-free and now you want to remove dairy too.  Are you crazy?” No, you aren’t. Gluten free Dairy free diet changes can really make you feel better. For many of us gluten-free folk, dairy tends to be next on the list to cut out.  Whether it’s another sensitivity…

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All About Leaky Gut Syndrome with Dr. Amy Myers: GFS Podcast Episode 027

Gluten Sensitivity, Celiac Disease and Leaky Gut Syndrome with Dr. Amy Myers This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast chats with Dr. Amy Myers who dishes on the connection between gluten sensitivity, celiac disease and leaky gut syndrome. We cover these topics: 01:27 – Introduction to Amy Myers, MD 03:01 – What…

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Gluten Free Dentist: Should You Find One?

Do you have a gluten free dentist? Though we often talk about food, we rarely talk about our teeth.  The dentist chair can be a real sore spot for some, especially when you worry about everything that ends up in your mouth. It was bad enough to deal with the discomfort…

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Gluten-Free Winter Squash Chili

The fall and winter just call for creamy, sweet and savory soups that don’t take too much time to make.  At least that’s what I believe!  Introducing my new creation — Gluten Free Winter Squash Chili! I’ve paired the perfect natural, sweet, creaminess of a butternut squash (or other winter…

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Review: Gluten Free Supplements from Nutrasumma

When you actually feel good, do you share what got you there with everyone you know?  I certainly do and that’s why I can’t to share with you the best gluten free supplements out there! Since you know how important feeling healthy is to me, I want to let you…

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Gluten Free Sweet Potato Fries

Enjoying the roasted savory sweetness that makes up gluten free sweet potato fries isn’t a very difficult task to handle. I love them for any meal of the day and even the occasional snack! Sweet potatoes are downright awesome for you and they can compliment almost any meal perfectly.  When…

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Gluten Free Non GMO Foods: GFS Podcast Episode 024

Gluten Free Non GMO Foods with Jennifer Fugo   Today we talk about the importance of seeking out gluten free non GMO food products and crops that will not further damage our health amongst other important issues! Welcome back to Kevin Geary of the Rebooted Body as my co-host!! 02:01…

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How to Create Lasting Change with Kevin Geary: GFS Podcast Episode 023

How to Create Lasting Diet Changes with Kevin Geary This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast episode will cover these topics: 00:00 —  Introducing Kevin Geary of The Rebooted Body to the show. 04:52 — Overcoming information overload and knowing where to find the right information. 09:48 — For whom are cereal grains good for?…

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Gluten Free Pet Food: Is It Necessary?

When you went gluten-free, did you ever suspect your pets as a culprit to getting glutened? Have you wondered if gluten free pet food is necessary? These are excellent and important questions.  In my experience, anyone sensitive to gluten needs to know this because they often forget about the animals…

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Should You Worry About Gluten Free GMO Food?

You already worry about gluten when you eat gluten-free, but what if there are some other seemingly innocuous food items on shelves that could be of concern? Are you concerned about gluten free GMO foods? What if it were the “healthy” and “natural” stuff like vegetables were the issue… would…

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Dealing with "Grain Brain" with David Perlmutter MD: GFS Podcast Episode 020

Gluten-Free “Grain Brain” & David Perlmutter, MD This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast sits down with the author of Grain Brain David Perlmutter, MD to chat about his book and the truth behind gluten-free carbs. Here’s the breakdown: 00:40 —  Introducing David Perlmutter, MD author of “Grain Brain” to the show 05:36 — How…

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How Anti-Aging is Your Gluten-Free Diet

An interesting question popped into my head today — Is a gluten free  anti aging diet possible? Thanks to my good friend Dr. Google, I came to find that I’m not the only person asking that question.  In fact, the term “anti-aging” is attached to quite a lot of articles…

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Healthy Gluten Free Chia Seed Pudding

Healthy pudding?  It seems almost wrong to place those two words together, but alas my friends… it’s true and it’s even dairy-free! How about some healthy gluten free chia seed pudding that requires no cooking that even your kids will love? If you’re wondering what “chia” is, let me gently…

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Does Gluten Cause Cancer? with Susan Silberstein, Ph.D

  Does Gluten Cause Cancer? with Susan Silberstein, Ph.D Have you ever wondered … “Does gluten cause cancer?”?  I have.  And now we know that being sensitive to gluten, especially if you’ve got unresolved damage from celiac disease, elevates your risk of certain cancers like lymphoma. That’s why I sat…

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Gluten-Free & Low Thyroid? Here’s What You Need to Know

Whether you want to believe it or not, a gluten free hypothyroidism diet might be just what you need to start feeling better. “Gluten depresses thyroid activity.”  What?!?!  Yep. When I first heard this statement years ago, I was floored. I didn’t realize at the time how food could directly…

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Gluten Sensitivity is Real

To all the doubters out there:  Gluten sensitivity is real. We’ve not all been brainwashed by celebrities endorsing a gluten-free diet as the best weight loss trick up their sleeve. We don’t need reporters, bloggers, and internet bullies to tell us that the whole gluten issue is all in our collective…

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How to Stop Gluten-Free Food Bullying : GFS Podcast Episode 014

How to Stop Gluten-Free Food Bullying Now This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast episode will cover a number of topics, but we’ll spend some time breaking down the issue of food bullying and how to stop it in it’s tracks. 02:33 —  Celiac Disease can cause Lymphoma??? 05:28 —  Are…

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Gluten Free Jamaican Jerk Sauce Recipe (vegan)

Sauces can be totally scary because often they’re not gluten-free.  As a result, your food can turn out bland if you’ve no clue how to spice it yourself. “Don’t worry…. Be gluten-free!” With that little Bob Marley reference, allow me to segue into this week’s yummy recipe.  I took a…

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"How to Cope with Living Gluten-Free" with Ali Shapiro

“How to Cope with Living Gluten-Free” with emotional eating coach Ali Shapiro Having a difficult time coping with the transition of going gluten-free because of celiac or gluten intolerance? Or perhaps you’re depressed and frustrated because you’ve got to give up more food because of other food sensitivities? I personally…

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How the FDA Gluten-Free Rules Affect You : GFS Podcast Episode 012

How the FDA Gluten-Free Rules Affect You This week’s Gluten Free School Podcast episode will cover these topics: 00:19 —  Big News — FDA finally rules on Gluten-Free Labels 04:40 —  Nitty Gritty points you need to know about the Gluten-Free ruling 15:37 —  Does the FDA Gluten-Free ruling affect more…

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Review: Wholly Guacamole

Have you ever been asked, “If you were stranded on a dessert island with only one food, what would it be?” Hands down, I’d say avocados. I actually never like avocados as a kid because I wasn’t exposed to them and thought that they were, well… weird.  But over the…

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How to Avoid Hormone Hell Before and During Menopause

Hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping, headaches? Sounds like how you might feel if you got glutened, yes? What these symptoms really describe is the treacherous and unpleasant transition into menopause.  It’s often spoken of with dread and distain because few women claim to have an easy one.   And…

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Fig Arugula Salad – Sweet and Spicy

Seasonal salads are probably one of the best things you can eat and this is one of my absolute favorites – fig arugula salad! In late summer and into the early fall, you can discover this entire world of flavor that’s also incredibly healthy. Yellow cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor…

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Hibiscus Tea

Incredibly cooling and refreshing, hibiscus tea is one of my favorite drinks to make in the summertime!  Since I brew it myself, it’s naturally gluten-free as well as caffeine-free. It has certain properties that could make it a winner in your house.  Though there are still more studies on the…

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All About the Specific Carbohydrate Diet with SCD Lifestyle

All About the Specific Carbohydrate Diet with SCD Lifestyle Do you feel like the standard gluten-free diet just isn’t enough to resolve your health and gut issues? I know many who feel the exact same way and end up spending years spinning their wheels in the mud without getting anywhere.…

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Review: Weeknight Paleo Cookbook

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “What’s for dinner tonight?” And in all honesty, you gave in and went out to eat because the act of figuring out what to eat and all the details that goes along with it was just too much after a long day? I had…

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Is Soy Dangerous to Your Health on a Gluten-Free Diet?

Is soy dangerous to your health if you’re gluten-free?  Do you consider soy milk to even be healthier than regular milk?  Do you worry about GMO soy?  Or perhaps you’re concerned about the rumors you’ve heard about soy being dangerous and disruptive to your hormones? Is Soy Dangerous to Your…

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Healthy 3-Ingredient Pan Fried Chicken

Have you ever eaten a perfectly browned, yet moist piece of chicken?  I have and it’s divine!  Juicy, simple, yet incredibly delicious. The only problem was that I had no idea how to make chicken like this.  I knew how to grill or roast meat, but to make pan fried chicken…

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How to Grill without getting Glutened

Are you ready to fire up the gluten-free BBQ? Whether you host or attend a summer picnic or BBQ, the fun of grilling can come to a screeching halt if you aren’t aware of how easy it is to get glutened. The key to gluten-free grilling is to keep things…

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Review: So Delicious Unsweetened Vanilla Coconut Milk

I completely remember the day that I had to give up not just gluten, but dairy too.  It was a sad day after learning that my body was revolting against so many of my favorite foods.  Though I was bummed, I found a sense of joy knowing that I might…

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Gluten Sensitive more likely to have Tired Adrenals

After sharing my own personal story of adrenal fatigue, the response from folks was astounding!  More and more people came forward to acknowledge that they too were struggling with similar issues.  The article was a big A-HA moment for them!  (If you haven’t read the article yet, CLICK HERE to…

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GFS Podcast Episode 001: Welcome to the Gluten Free School Podcast

Meet Gluten Free Expert and Certified Health Coach Jennifer Fugo as you never have before —through the new Gluten Free School Podcast (GFSP)! In this introductory episode, you will learn: 01:38 —  Who is Jennifer Fugo? 02:57 — What to expect in future Gluten Free School Podcast episodes. 05:36 —…

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Ultimate Guide to Understanding Gluten-Free Labeling

Do you find gluten-free labels and the various wording on gluten-free products confusing?  Would you love to understand the complex concept of gluten-free labeling requirements so that you can know more about what you’re buying at the store? I’m right there with you on all of these points.  I get…

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Fatigue: The Gluten-Adrenal Connection

Do you feel tired all the time?  Maybe tired isn’t even strong enough of a word to describe the extreme fatigue you feel all day, every day.  The problem seems to be pretty common place for those who eat a gluten-free diet. Or maybe you have trouble falling asleep at…

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Slow-Cooker Sausage Soup

I miss meatballs.  I’ve never had a gluten-free meatball that tastes the same as my mom’s homemade Italian ones.  Even those made with gluten-free bread crumbs just don’t hit the spot quite the same way as before. The first time I had this soup, I told my husband that it…

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Review: Gluten-Free Labels

Did you know that if you live in a home with gluten-eaters, you’ve got to keep your gluten-free food products and other kitchenware segregated? Many people (myself included until a few years ago) was in this boat, rocking out the black sharpee and masking tape to make sure that my…

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Gluten Free Bread: Why are you STILL eating it?

Bread just never tasted the same as the ‘normal’ wheat loaves.  And gluten free bread is darn expensive whether you make it yourself or buy it at the store. As a former breadoholic, I spent quite a bit of time contemplating my options when I went gluten-free back in 2008 and…

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Mushrooms Test Negative for Gluten

As you may recall, my article questioning whether mushrooms are gluten-free and safe for those with celiac and gluten sensitivity caused quite a stir. (CLICK HERE to read it.)  The folks at The Mushroom Council got wind of my article and finally agreed that it was time to get mushrooms tested because…

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New to Gluten-Free? Here’s some Advice

Are you new to being gluten-free?  Do you wish you could ask someone like me or any number of other folks who you follow on the web for advice about how to do it? Imagine this: You just found out your diagnosis of celiac disease or gluten sensitivity and you’ve…

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Creamy Asparagus Soup (GF, DF)

I had been dreaming about making a creamy dairy-free, gluten-free asparagus soup for nearly a month before I finally decided to go for it.  If you love asparagus, sweet potato and peas, then there is absolutely no reason you won’t love this recipes.  It’s quick, easy and incredibly satisfying. This…

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Review: KeVita Sparkling Probiotic Drink

I’m a big fan of eating one’s nutrients in food.  In our pill-heavy culture, I think this idea is important and something that too many of us have strayed quite far from.  So when food products come along which offer healthy benefits with a great taste, then I feel it’s…

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Still Sick? Parasites could be your Problem

After traveling in Costa Rica during the summer of 2008, I came home to find that despite being gluten-free for 4 full months, I felt horrible.  I knew that I wasn’t getting glutened because I cooked everything at home and yet I was having horrible, unexplainable bouts of diarrhea, gas…

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The Sugar-Free Lie

Have you searched the web for gluten-free recipes (probably desserts) that are “sugar-free”? You figure if it’s “sugar-free” then you’re making a better choice, right? What if I told you that a good number of recipes out there (especially on blogs) are NOT actually “sugar-free”? Would you be shocked or…

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Five Ways to Spice Up Gluten-Free Chicken Soup

Chicken soup seems like the perfect fix for any day you’re feeling under the weather.  It’s easy enough to make (you can check out my very simple, easy-prep Crockpot recipe HERE), but sometimes can leave you with more than you would want to eat of the same thing for days…

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Cost of Poor Gut Health in Celiacs

Did you know that you have more bacteria living in and on you than human cells? Though some folks might find this idea to be gross (which isn’t entirely shocking considering the germophobic culture in which we live), bacteria can be extremely beneficial to good health. As a population of…

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Review: Vigilant Eats

It always seems like breakfast is the most difficult meal of the day… at least it is for me!  Unable to eat eggs, dairy and gluten, I often end up stranded when traveling or staying at someone else’s home because the most common elements of breakfast don’t agree with me.…

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Quick Gluten Free Apple Crisp

I love a good apple pie or apple crisp, but so rarely find one that’s gluten-free and doesn’t take forever to make.  That’s the ultimate complaint with gluten-free food… too many ingredients and too much time. I’ve got a solution for you!  Check this out… a quick apple crisp recipe…

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Gluten-Free? Drink Water

If there’s one thing I love to do, it’s drinking water.  I know there’s a lot of folks out there that have the mindset (and it is TOTALLY a mindset) that water is gross.  I have bad news for those negative water Nellies… water is the best thing that you…

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Gluten-Free Diet is Bad for your Heart

Going gluten-free can be good for you, but it takes more effort than what the regular Joe and Jane usually allow for.  That’s why I often refer to what most folks in the GF community are eating as the Standard American Gluten-Free Diet (SAGFD).  It’s truly the crappy mirror image…

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Review: Jovial Organic Tomatoes

Good tomatoes make your meal memorable. Whether it’s a lovely pasta sauce, a warming winter soup, or a spicy chili, the tomatoes you use will make or break the meal.  Bland, tasteless tomatoes leave you scrambling to add spices and salt to make up for their ineptitude. But when you’ve…

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Gluten-Free Avocado Sushi

I get asked quite a bit — “Is sushi gluten-free?” If you like sushi and assume that it’s gluten-free, you might be saddened to know that there’s a good chance that you’ll get glutened from eating it out at a restaurant.  Though I’m not a big fish person (especially not raw…

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Q&A: Are Mushrooms Gluten-Free?

Recently I was asked on the Gluten Free School Facebook page – Are mushrooms gluten-free?  The information shared by the commenter left me rather nervous because, well… I love mushrooms!  Please don’t take them away from me too!!! [NOTE: the official conclusion to whether mushrooms are gluten-free or not can be…

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Cinnamon Vanilla Tea

I get a lot of questions about what recipes are “Gluten-Free Sugar Cleanse Approved” these days and I wanted to share with you one of my recent favorites.  It’s perfect for the cooler months and so incredibly simple & satisfying that you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Everyone loves dessert (alright… almost…

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Get Your Gluten-Free Diet Back On Track in the New Year

When did you officially overdosed on gluten-free cookies and treats?  Or maybe it’s the rich, heavy, starchy foods that got you this time around? Either way, the holidays pretty much throw everyone’s diet off the rails (including mine) with too many meals eaten outside of the home all in the…

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Giveaway: Remond’s Real Salt Seasonings

Start your new year off right with some incredible sea salt seasoning blends from Redmond’s Real Salt!  I love love love this company and their products. Whether it’s their body products or their sea salt (all of which is produced in the USA, everything they produce is incredibly high quality,…

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Giveaway: Remond’s Real Salt Seasonings

Start your new year off right with some incredible sea salt seasoning blends from Redmond’s Real Salt!  I love love love this company and their products. Whether it’s their body products or their sea salt (all of which is produced in the USA, everything they produce is incredibly high quality,…

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Holiday GF Guide (Pt. 2) – How to Host a GF Party

I know exactly how tough the holidays can be as a ‘normal’ eater, but when you throw into the mix that you’ve got issue with food because of celiac or sensitivity to gluten (or anything else), it can make the typical celebratory parties seem like an obstacle course too treacherous…

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Pancetta Lentil Soup

There’s something about a nice hearty stew in the winter months that seems to brighten anyone’s day! Add bacon to it, and people will like it even more (or so those who eat meat, like my husband will say). The idea for this incredibly easy and flavorful soup came to me…

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Great GF Holiday Giveaway 2012

Hi friends! Happy holidays!  Though it hasn’t quite hit me yet that the holidays are almost upon us, I wanted to take this opportunity to give back to those of you who are fans of Gluten Free School, taking part in the classes here, sharing our information and being active…

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Holiday GF Guide (Pt.1) – Don’t Pick Around the Gluten

Have you ever been served a dish that you were told was gluten-free, but really wasn’t? Case in point: A lovely woman I met through my local cooking classes (we’ll call her Anna) told me that her sister made her a special gluten-free cheesecake and served her a slice to…

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Giveaway: Keen-Wah Decadence Chocolate Bars

Welcome to the final month of 2012 and since it’s the holiday season! I figured sharing some decadent chocolate bars with you all would be a great way to end the year with a tasty bang.  I want to introduce you to the Keen-Wah Decadence Chocolate Bars from a lovely…

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Is Dr. Drew Anti-Celiac?

That’s the question I was left with after watching his truly astounding interview with Jennifer Esposito.  If you are in the dark about the backstory of why he was interviewing Jennifer, here’s your quick recap: Jennifer has celiac and was an actress staring on CBS’ Blue Bloods TV show.  She…

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How to Make Almond Milk

Unless you’ve got a nut allergy, almond milk is one of the best dairy alternatives out there.  It’s incredibly easy-to-make and has a similar consistency to that of milk.  You can also flavor it however you like, should you choose to do so. Now you could go out and buy…

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Healthy, Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Ideas

Counting down the days until Turkey day, holidays like this can make you cringe.  Maybe you get nervous about what you’re going to eat.  Maybe you worry that someone in your family will accidentally contaminate every single dish making you a victim of being glutened (even in your own home!).…

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Green Crock Pot Chicken Soup Recipe

One of my favorite things to make in the cooler months is gluten free crock pot chicken soup.  It’s such an easy recipe that I can assemble the dish in ten minutes or less before I go to bed. But this gluten free crock pot chicken soup isn’t just any…

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Whether to Eat Rice or Avoid it

For a long time, I was a supporter of eating whole grains like brown rice.  It seems like the first most obvious go-to health food that people diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity run toward.  It’s non-offensive, easy to find in the grocery store, and pretty widely liked as…

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Giveaway: A Month of KIND

Welcome to November — the month of Gratitude!  It’s one of my favorite months of the year and offers us the opportunity to step back and see the blessings around us.  Though the idea of ‘seeing the blessings’ around you might be difficult for some who are truly struggling and…

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Gluten-Free Emergencies: Hurricane Sandy

  If you haven’t heard, Hurricane Sandy is on her way headed straight toward the mid-atlantic East Coast. I’m located in Philadelphia and, after finding out that the direct hit of the storm is coming about an hour south of here, I started to actually become alarmed. Don’t worry… I’m…

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First Gluten-Free, Now Dairy-Free too?

First you gave up gluten, and now you’re asking me to give up dairy?  Are you crazy? Let’s back up a sec. In 2008, I was diagnosed with multiple food sensitivities which also included dairy.  Not the lactose problem that everyone so commonly thinks of, but more like the casein…

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Tough Truth about the Gluten Free Diet

  There are times when I’m irked to no end about the problems and pitfalls that lie in plain view of anyone going gluten-free.  Though you might not see them, I do (all the time) because of my work through Gluten Free School. I’m often annoyed when attending celiac events…

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Take Care of Yourself – Fall Giveaway

As you may have noticed, it’s been rather quiet on the GFS front.  At least that’s how it may appear to all of you NOT inside the Gluten-Free Sugar Cleanse! We’re heading into the diet part of the cleanse and I’ve been completely inspired by everyone’s commitment to learn more…

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Arsenic in Gluten-Free Rice Damages Human Cells

UPDATED POST 8/15/2013 — Bad news, folks… Yes, rice (a staple of a gluten-free diet) contains arsenic. And what’s worse? We now know that the arsenic damages genetic material in YOUR body. A new study has found that elevated arsenic levels in rice can produce detectable damage at a cellular…

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Quiz: Are you a Gluten-Free Sugar Addict?

Do you feel confused about whether your sweet tooth is actually a more significant problem? Are you kidding yourself about how bad your cravings for sugar, chocolate and/or carbs might be? I have a quick and easy way for you to find out exactly where you are in relation to…

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Top Four Gluten-Free Sugar Bombs of Autumn

I want to be honest with you — most of the gluten-free products you’re eating are not good for you. I don’t care that they have organic labels or mention being vegan, low sodium, or a good source of X, Y, or Z… There’s a lot of huge problems popping…

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Celiac Awareness Day!

Though I feel a bit funny wishing people a “Happy Celiac Awareness Day”, I do want to highlight those who follow my work as well as present and past clients who struggle with Celiac day-in and day-out.  I know that you put your heart and soul into this endeavor and,…

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Behold the Season of Sugar

Walk into many retail stores and already you’ll see decorations lining the rack for the upcoming festive holidays (right now we’re looking at Halloween in the US). The end of summer had yet to pass, but retailers began reminding us many weeks in advance that our shopping focus should be…

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"What’s Wrong with the Gluten-Free Diet" with Samantha F. Grant, CN

“What’s Wrong with the Gluten-Free Diet” with Samantha F. Grant, CN Have you ever wondered if the Gluten-Free diet is really all that healthy? Personally I have a lot of gripes about how it’s been presented by many out there, both from the professional and non-professional sides.  I mean… have…

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Vanilla Coconut Ice Cream (Soft Serve)

I have two confessions… 1) I eat ice cream.  In fact, on a hot summer day is when I love it the most. 2) I rarely buy ice cream anymore.  I make my own.  It’s healthier, has very few ingredients and is ready in minutes. Wha?!?!  Minutes? Yes. Minutes. It’s…

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Q&A: How do you Deal with Craving Gluten?

Q::  Hey there!  I really struggle with what I feel like are food cravings or addictions… Can you be addicted to gluten and other foods? For 33 years I have/had been able to eat pretty much anything I wanted with the exception of anything dairy (or lactose).  I would really…

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Nursing Your Gluten-Free Sweet Tooth?

If you think even for a moment that because you switched to a Gluten-Free diet, you’re somehow safe from sugar, think again.  Chances are, your diet might be worse than before… much worse.   Are you… (Created by: www.OnlineNursingPrograms.com) Want more information on how to begin tackling your sweet tooth,…

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"Dining out Gluten-Free" Master Class with Ken Scheer

Do you get stressed out about eating gluten-free at a restaurant? I think it’s safe to say that we all do.  That’s why I sat down with Ken Scheer of RockaHealthyLifestyle.com to talk about the in’s and out’s of dining for us gluten-free folks.  Ken has been gluten-free for 17…

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Go Mexican Giveaway!

  Who doesn’t love a mid-week giveaway? I sure do…especially when it’s something that I’d totally love for myself and it has something to do with Mexican food. Mexican food? I’m in heaven!  And thanks to Rudi’s Gluten Free Bakery, you can check out this really cool prize pack as…

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Gluten-Free & Angry

At some point, we all get angry… Whether you’re pissed that the foods you love are now off limits and people stop calling you to go out, or you just throw in the towel disgusted from trying so hard to be gluten-free and eat whatever everyone else is… there’s your…

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Review: "Food Rules" by Michael Pollan

I love books that are inherently filled with wisdom that makes you laugh.  It’s certainly better than the the type that comes from a mean older person looking to school you.  Though fear can be effective in changing daily habits, I think that humor is one of the often overlooked…

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Gluten Free Alcohol Guide

Are you drinking gluten free alcohol? I get asked all the time whether alcohol is safe for those who are gluten sensitive.  The truth is, it’s not an easy answer and many times it’s best to avoid if you really don’t know what you could be drinking. However, if you…

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Review: Amazing Grass Green Superfoods

I’m sure you’ve heard your mother tell you to eat your greens.  Even now, all the nutrition talking heads tell you “Eat your greens!”, but for those whose days are spent constantly on-the-run with little time available for food prep and cooking, that statement might not ever become a reality.…

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Q&A: How do you eat gluten-free inexpensively?

Q::   Along with my father-in-law, I’m getting to know more and more people who have Celiacs disease. The one struggle they are experiencing is with the cost of being gluten free and how expensive it is. I was hoping you could offer some direction and advice on how one…

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Gluten Free Salsa

Do you ever get tired of chopping everything? I do. And then there are moments when I just need to cut down on prep time. Well, this is my solution to a gluten free salsa recipe.  And boy, is it super easy and delicious! It goes great paired with some…

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Q&A: How do you Deal with Multiple Food Sensitivities?

Q:::    I struggle with more than just gluten, also casein and soy protein….and, I’m morally challenged by eating meat.  Any advise on that?  ~ Cynthia Oh boy, this is a great question!  It’s one that I’ve faced many times (not in this exact formation, but similar as you’ll learn).  So,…

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How to Stock a Freezer When You’re Gluten Free

Have you ever gotten stuck on a busy week without freshly cooked gluten free food? Perhaps life got in the way or an emergency popped up. Or maybe you want to shorten prep and cooking time, but aren’t sure how… Well, I can tell you this – learning how to…

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Review: Clean by Alejandro Junger, MD

Many of us are confounded by the people who seem to unlock some secret and reboot their bodies.  It would be nice, right?  I’d have to agree especially since dealing with food sensitivities (or in another’s situation of say, celiac), a good nice reboot would be fabulous. Your body (and…

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"Benefits of Sprouted Foods" Master Class with Esha Ray

  “Benefits of Sprouted Foods” with TrüRoots co-owner Esha Ray Perhaps you’ve heard that sprouts are good for you – and they are – but do you know why? Most people don’t.  The best guess my clients muster is that they’re low in calories which is true, but not exactly…

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Watermelon Cooler

No summer is complete without some watermelon! Why not opt for a watermelon cooler! But hey, did you know that watermelon is a great dietary option to remove excess heat from your body? If you are sweltering on a hot summer day, then a slice of watermelon might just do the…

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10 Tips to be a Smarter Gluten-Free Cook

Ever get tired of cooking? Or maybe you live alone and don’t enjoy cooking for one? One of the best lessons I’ve learned while being gluten-free is that in order to eat the best you possibly can, you’ve got to cook it yourself. You know that gluten-free doesn’t necessarily mean…

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Refreshing Cherry Water

In the heat of summer, I often notice that people tend to forget that water doesn’t necessarily need to be consumed as just… well… water.  There are an infinite number of possibilities that you can create in your kitchen in literally minutes! That said, I love cherries.  My husband might…

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Gluten-Free Frozen Vegetable Guide

So long as you follow me here on Gluten Free School, you’ll never stop hearing me talk about eating veggies. They come first and foremost over anything else on your plate because they’re the good stuff most of us avoid. Though I’m sure you probably know “fresh is best” —…

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How to Freeze Fruit

Do you ever catch yourself saying, “I hate buying fresh food because it always goes bad before I can use it all”? Well, you won’t have to worry about that any more with your fruit!  Last summer I was on a mission to waste not a single bit of seasonally…

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Spiced Pear Smoothie

Have you ever considered using fruit that’s rather uncommon in the realm of smoothies? My find last summer was fresh mulberries and this spring it was pear.  Yep — pear! A slight bit of back story is warranted here — a neighbor of mine has a huge pear tree that…

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June Giveaway – Diana Stobo’s ‘Naked Bliss’

  Do you love to make smoothies?  The summer time is the perfect season to indulge. Combine your delicious gluten-free smoothies with some awesome vegan superfoods… what are superfoods, you ask? Superfoods are incredibly nutritious natural foods that you definitely should add to your diet.  They are loaded with vital…

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June Giveaway – Diana Stobo’s ‘Naked Bliss’

  Do you love to make smoothies?  The summer time is the perfect season to indulge. Combine your delicious gluten-free smoothies with some awesome vegan superfoods… what are superfoods, you ask? Superfoods are incredibly nutritious natural foods that you definitely should add to your diet.  They are loaded with vital…

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My Gluten-Free Memorial Day Favs

Summer’s here, can you believe it?  I honestly can’t.  But we’re ready to celebrate over the heated pit of a fired grill with family and friends this coming weekend. Here’s my top picks for the weekend festivities: Sweet Potato Chips Certified organic, vegan, gluten-free and nut-free, these chips from Late…

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Understanding Gluten-Free Products with Elizabeth Stein

“Understanding Gluten-Free Products” with Elizabeth Stein I get so many emails everyday asking me all about gluten-free products, so I turned to Purely Elizabeth founder Elizabeth Stein to get some answers.  Elizabeth knows first-hand the ins and outs of creating and marketing gluten-free products since her company produces GF goodies…

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May 2012 Giveaway – Eating Green

  May’s a special month with lots of great holidays (hint: Mother’s Day is this weekend, so don’t forget to get your mom a card and mail it if you need to!), beautiful greenery outside, and warmer temps that set the stage for summer. And in honor of how absolutely…

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Why a Sugar-Free Diet Won’t Work

After a recent speaking engagement all about the woes of sugar addiction in gluten-free folks, a woman approached me asking if I recommend a 100% sugar-free diet if one wanted to kick their sugar habit.  She rattled off a list of her own issues and said she tried kicking her addiction to…

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Sugar – Your Gluten-Free Devil?

Is your Easter candy gone? Or did you stock up on all the treats marked down to keep on hand? Don’t worry, I’m not judging you.  But most people, when I ask them these two questions lately, chuckle.  They know exactly what I’m talking about and so do you. It…

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Easy Vegan Red Lentil Soup

One of my most favorite food items to cook with is red lentils!  And this is one of my personal favorite recipes which received many ooo’s and ahhh’s from my Gluten Free cooking class.  PLUS it’s totally allowed on my Gluten Free Sugar Cleanse and also received rave reviews from…

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Gluten-Free Weekend Wrap Up

Happy Monday, girls & boys! So many interesting things happened this weekend, I decided to compiled them (along with my own two cents) for you in case you missed them. Coffee & Gluten Cross – False Alarm?? After seeing a few tweets and reading my fair share of very poorly…

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Birthday Bash Giveaway #8

And last, but certainly not least — we’re at the final day of my Birthday Bash giveaways!  To me, I had to save one of my absolute favs for the end because they’re just so darn good. But first make sure to check out the awesome GRAND PRIZE I’m giving away worth over…

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Birthday Bash Giveaway #7

Today’s big Birthday Bash Giveaway is going to be a slight departure from the past six because it does not involve food.  And even though I don’t mention this much here at Gluten Free School about myself, I’m a HUGE yoga fan.  So much so that I became a teacher…

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Birthday Bash Giveaway #6

Are you ready to get one more chance to win some of your own lovely gluten-free baking mixes before this bash ends?  As I’ve said before, I’m not a huge fan of treats, but they’re okay to have periodically when you’re celebrating something special like a birthday or promotion at…

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Birthday Bash Giveaway #5

Hope you had a fabulous weekend celebrating whatever it was you celebrate in your household!  My family had a nice, intimate Easter dinner and topped it off with some Gluten-Free chocolate cake (courtesy of Better Batter who sent me samples to try out for special moments like celebrating a belated…

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Birthday Bash Giveaway #4

Welcome to Day #4 of my Big Birthday Bash giveaway!  I’ve honestly never given this much stuff away so close together and I’ve no clue when I’ll do this again, but I also wanted to show how much you all mean to me! Have you register yourself for my GRAND PRIZE worth…

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Birthday Bash Giveaway #3

On to Day 3!!  How are you holding up? Me?  I’m even more thrilled and we’re not even half way through! In honor of another two of my favorite companies AND some big help in the kitchen, I’ve got a great giveaway that I know you’re gonna love! First, remember…

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Birthday Bash Giveaway #2

Let’s jump right on in to day #2 of my Birthday Extravaganza!  I was so excited and thrilled by the positive response from everyone for these giveaways!  Score! Remember, to get in on the $1000 Grand Prize giveaway, visit HERE to learn the juicy details of what I’ve got in…

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Birthday Bash Giveaway #1

Stepping foot onto the other side of my birthday, I’m excited to launch into a new year around the sun!  This weekend was spent doing EXACTLY what I wanted to do – a long 3-hour class with a master yoga teacher, sleeping in, spending time with people I love and,…

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Give to Yourself

Take care of thyself should be a motto that everyone, including myself ought to follow. However, it seems for me that life get in the way (or I let it) sooner or later which causes many well-intentioned plans to fall to the way side.  I don’t often write about myself…

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How to Poach an Egg

I have to admit this to you… I’ve never tasted this recipe.  It smells so darn good and it’s so simple, but the final product has never passed these lips. The reason is that I’m highly sensitive to eggs, but my husband isn’t and he LOVES poached eggs!  My clients…

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Review: Late July Organic Chips

The top 2 reasons that clients and myself love an occasional chip is because of the crunch and salt.  However the lone combination can leave you eating super-duper junk food that even those special events can’t justify. That’s why I’ve come to love Late July Organic Chips.  I’m not saying…

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Review: Mama Jess Organic Pasta Sauces

Ever wish you could pick up a really good quality, organic, and gluten-free pasta sauce at the store?  Maybe you’re in a pinch or headed away for the weekend and need some staples to keep your family happy.  Or maybe you’re not big into planning and tend to purchase products…

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Eating the ‘Good’ Fat

Since we recently heard from Dr. Barry Sears all about eating good quality fats, I thought it might be helpful for you to get your hands a little dirty in, well…fat.  To be fair, many clients I met sheepishly admit to knowing very little about what fats are food and…

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"Gluten & Inflammation" Master Class with Dr. Barry Sears

“Gluten & Inflammation” with Dr. Barry Sears Gluten causes inflammation.  If you’ve got issues with gluten, then you’ve probably got inflammation too.  They go hand in hand for us gluten sensitive folks. Join me and one of my favorite teachers, Dr. Barry Sears (father of the Zone Diet) who shares…

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Review: Hilary’s Eat Well Veggie Burger

In honor of Meatless Mondays (you know…the movement to reduce dietary consumption of animal products), I’d like to introduce to you Hilary’s Eat Well Veggie Burgers.  These millet-based vegan patties are actually quite tasty…so tasty in fact that my husband (an avid road cyclist) has been asking me to get…

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Paleo Nut Crusted Fish

Are you game for an easy, incredibly moist & buttery, gluten-free fish dish that cooks in less than 10 minutes? It’s also dairy-free and egg-free too! Now, full disclosure – I’m not the biggest fan of fish, I admit it.  Never have been since I was around age 10.  So…

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Review: ‘Toxic Fat’ by Barry Sears, Ph.D.

“The Ancient Greeks described inflammation as the ‘internal fire’…which suggests that our understanding of inflammation hasn’t increased that much over the past 2,000 years!” ~ Barry Sears, Ph.D. from Toxic Fat Got inflammation? I’m willing to bet that you’ll answer ‘no’ to this question and most likely you’re wrong.  Dead…

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Gluten’s Effect on Inflammation

Inflammation is a major problem for those of us who are gluten sensitive. Though you might not understand exactly what inflammation is or how it really throws a big, rusty wrench in your quest for good health, Engin Coach Ali Weinberg is back to explain.  She’s got another important piece…

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Review: Taza Chocolate

Being that Valentine’s Day is coming, I couldn’t help myself from sharing with you another favorite chocolate find!  Something totally unique in flavor, texture and character.  GFS friends– meet Taza Chocolate‘s Mexicano Chocolate wheels.  Mmmm… they’re so good! I personally love chocolate (I’ve rarely met a woman who doesn’t) and,…

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Red Lentil Tacos (Vegan)

I often joke that I was born in the wrong part of the world because of how much I enjoy Latin American cuisine.  And tacos?  Well, I love me some tacos. The Red Lentil Taco recipe that I’m going to share with you today is courtesy of my friend Stephanie…

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Review: Celiac & Gluten-Free Books

When I was first diagnosed with gluten sensitivity, there wasn’t a whole lot of great information around that I could pick up and read.  It made me feel even more like I was alone on the journey except for the saving grace of a few good Gluten-Free blogs on the…

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"Thyroid and Gluten" Master Class with Andrea Beaman

“Thyroid and Gluten” Master Class with Andrea Beaman Though it might surprise you, there’s a connection between your thyroid health and consuming gluten!  I’ve talked about the connection of gluten to other hormonal areas such as the adrenals, but the thyroid can also be affected. That’s why I sat down…

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Review: Crunchies Fruit Snacks

Love fruit as a snack? Who doesn’t. The only problem is that the amount of sugar that you end up consuming oftentimes outweighs all the nutrients that you’re getting. Plus, most of the year you’ll be eating fruit that not even in season. So how could you indulge in your…

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My Husband’s Sugar Blues

I’d like to take this moment to introduce you to my husband, Nick.  He’s been my biggest fan over the past month as we journey together on the road of cleansing sugar from our lives.  He asked me to post this note to you so you can hear all about…

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"Sugar & Gluten" Master Class with Heather K. Terry

  “Sugar Addiction & Gluten” with Nibmor Chocolate’s Heather K. Terry The truth of sugar is slow getting out there and the gluten free community is not immune to it’s devastating effects on the body.  Yes, it’s true.  Sugar can un-do much of your hard work being gluten-free because it’s…

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Gluten & Mental Health

Ever get the winter blues?  As the cold weather really sets in, some feel the blahs much more intensely than others.  Though you could possibly attribute it to the decrease in light or the temperature outside, I’d like for you to consider that consuming gluten could have an effect on…

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Mexican Chicken Soup (GF, DF)

Sometimes it’s nice to take an ol’ food favorite and turn it into something totally unexpected.  Basic things like chicken soup can be great and really show how versatile it actually is.  Plus, you can easily do this to leftovers and have a completely new meal! I learned all about…

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Q&A – Are French Fries Gluten Free?

Are you wondering “are french fries gluten free” because they’re made from potatoes?  Think again. While french fries SHOULD be gluten-free, there’s a really good chance that they aren’t. There are two factors that directly affect french fries – whether they are battered or pre-formed AND how they are fried. So my…

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Roasted Pumpkin Soup (GF, DF, vegan)

If anyone had ever told me that pumpkin, lime and cilantro went so well together, I never would have believed them until my neighbor, Michele, and I conjured up this amazing Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Soup!  Perfectly warming and smooth, it’s like heaven in a bowl. Now one of the best…

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Gluten Free in the New Year

Everyone makes New Year’s resolutions unless they’ve completely disgusted him/herself with years of goal failure.  The tossing out of an old calendar somehow signifies to us all that we’ve got to give SOMETHING a go or just not bother at all.  I’m personally of the mindset that these types of…

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Best of Gluten Free in 2011

I’m often asked what are some of my favorite products that I use in my home that make life easier and better.  Well, here is a short list of those that I’ve found in 2011 and would love to send some gratitude and love to these hard-working companies.  Please note…

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Gluten-Free Holidays without the Drama

My first year being gluten-free wasn’t all that tough until I hit the holidays.  It was, in that moment, that I hated being gluten-free.  Though I’m sorry in a sense to admit it, I was and still am at times as I watch relatives enjoy family favorites that are completely…

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Gluten Free Holiday Giveaway 2011

I have to say that I love all the holiday lights up at this time of year.  It just makes me feel so happy – all that twinkliness!  Meanwhile in my yoga classes, I encourage students and fellow practitioners to remember that the holiday season isn’t just about giving or…

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Gluten Free Holiday Desserts for 2011

Remember when you were a child and the holiday parties were always filled with your favorite cookies and candies?  I sure do!  Being gluten-free put a bit of a damper on that for me which is compounded by the fact that I’m not all that into baking.  If you’re like…

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Sugar Addiction & Gluten-Free

Gluten-free sugar addict – I’m sure you know some. Or maybe you’re one. Regardless of what your current diet looks like, a sweet tooth can sneak into everyone’s diet at some point since most people rarely make a transition away from unhealthy American eating habits simply because they are gluten-free.…

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Review: Nibmor Vegan Hot Chocolate

As the winter chill sets in and the days shorten, hot chocolate is a winter-time staple for warming the body up on a cool night.  Thick, creamy and sweet, hot chocolate is perfect in so many ways except for one – dairy. The dairy proteins are quite similar in formation…

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"Gluten & Your Hormones" Master Class with Samantha F. Grant, CN

“Gluten & Your Hormones” Master Class with Samantha F. Grant, CN CLICK HERE to listen and subscribe through iTunes!!! Then take a moment and leave a review on iTunes sharing what you’ve learned and why others would benefit from subscribing as well! Gluten and your hormones ARE directly connected which is…

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4 Biggest Gluten-Free Holiday Mistakes

Holidays can be stressful for everyone.  For those of us who don’t eat gluten, it’s worse because somehow gluten has become a staple ingredient in most dishes that are served, even though it’s typically unnecessary.  The uncertainty factor can be nerve-wrecking and even maddening because you just can’t ever be…

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Bone Stock: How to Make the Best Soup Ever

Fall and winter are the perfect times of year to break out the big cooking pot and spend all day simmering up some delightful soup.  At least that’s what I’ve found in my own life- I almost crave soup in the cooler months because it’s warming effects are so incredibly…

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‘Wheat Belly’ Master Class with Dr. William Davis

I’m so pleased to finally release my interview with Dr. William Davis, author of Wheat Belly and cardiologist extraordinaire, to the public.  The response to this class was quite overwhelming since Dr. Davis offer a tremendous amount of information about the negative effects of a ‘new breed’ of wheat that no…

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Apple Cinnamon Donut Bread

As the holidays near, I would like to share a few of my favorite recipes that I’ve made for friends and family.  Though I do my best to eat healthfully most of the time (say 80%), there’s nothing like a delicious dessert that everyone at the party can indulge in…

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Review: Ayala’s Herbal Water (sparkling)

I grew up in a home that paired just about every meal with a bottle of sparkling water (or fizzy water, as my father calls it).  For many years, I hardly drank any ‘still’ water and favored certain flavors of the ‘fizzy water’ after giving up juice and soda.  More…

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Easy Apple Porridge (Slow Cooker)

Looking for a super simple breakfast recipe that you can prep in 5 minutes, but allow your slow cooker to do all of the work? One of my favorite morning breakfasts when the weather is cool is this easy apple porridge. It’s incredibly flavorful and really “sticks to the bones”…

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Is Chipotle Really Gluten-Free? Probably Not.

When I first heard about Chipotle, I was tickled pink!  A rather food conscious chain that was working a little harder to bring America a better quality of fast food.  Plus, they were pretty allergen-aware which, in my book, is a huge plus. I occasionally have enjoyed a meal there…

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True Story: Ali’s Diagnosis

I’ll never forget the feeling of walking my dog up the hill near my house.  Normally this hill wouldn’t bother me, but now my heart felt like it was pounding out of my chest.  As I continued to climb, sweat began to pour off me as if I had just sprinted a…

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Why Handstands Matter

Handstands are elusive…at least to me, that is.  The reason is simply because I’m afraid of them.  I’m a yoga teacher who’s afraid of handstands.  It might sound crazy, but of all the yoga asanas (aka. poses) out there, it’s the one that dredges up a deep-seated fear that might…

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Review: Nibmor’s Daily Dose of Dark Chocolate

After meals, I just LOVE a piece of delicious dark chocolate.  And sometimes a piece turns into the entire bar.  I certainly don’t mean for this to happen, but I do admit my love of chocolate can take over and before I know it, I’ve eaten more than I had…

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Open Letter to the Media

Dear Media (who’ve written negative articles on the gluten-free diet), It has come to my attention numerous times over the past year that you are really not a fan of the gluten-free lifestyle.  You openly mock us in articles and insist that those of us who actually live a more…

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Review: Earth Balance Mindful Mayo

There are some things in life that you miss when you have to give them up, especially when a good substitute just ISN’T possible.  Or, when you simply can’t ‘cheat’ once in awhile and try even a little.  The natural inclination is to truly miss what you can’t have.  But…

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Gluten Free Made in China

Do you ever look at the back of a food product to see where it’s made?  I do.  I often wonder where food is produced so that I can do my best to support US companies as well as eating food that’s grown and produced here.  My ultimate goal is…

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Dining Out Horror PRE-Gluten Free

It was a lovely evening in the Fall back in 2007 and I accepted an offer from my friend, Frank, to dine at a well-known and reviewed Italian restaurant.  I’d heard that the homemade pasta was to DIE for! In my pre-gluten-free days, this kind of stuff used to excite…

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FYI – Your Body Care Products Matter

As you may know, it’s critical to find gluten free body care products IF you are really going to live a gluten free lifestyle.  Otherwise, there’s always this chance that you’ll end up with gluten in your mouth or inhaled and thus injected.  And for some people, they experience rashes…

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Gluten Free Food Trends 2011

Get ready, get set, GO gluten-free!  Or at least that’s what I took away from visiting the trade show floor of Natural Foods Expo East this past weekend in Baltimore.  Literally, every other company was showcasing either a reformulation of a former non-gluten-free product OR a new gluten-free product line.…

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Review: Marion’s Smart Delights

Baking is an art in and of itself and I’m a total wannabe baker.  It’s something that I don’t really have the time to do.  I used to make Christmas cookies with my mom, but that was pretty much the extent of my baking experience.  It’s one thing to bake…

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Review: Vega’s Shake & Go Smoothies

I’ve been a huge fan of Vega’s vegan protein powders for quite some time.  They’re incredibly high quality and worth the extra pennies spent because of how much nutritional goodness they pack into each serving (from which you obviously reap the benefits, yes?).  Accustomed to their Whole Food Optimizer, I…

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Review: Purely Elizabeth’s Ancient Grain Granola

Who doesn’t love crunchy granola with the right amount of sweetness?  I certainly do and am game to try most gluten-free granolas out there on the market.  My one caveat is sugar.  I definitely look at the sugar content and lately have become so disgusted with sugary granolas on the…

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Gluten & Skin Reactions

What happened to your face?!?! Oh, I don’t know, probably gluten.  Maybe it was dairy and possibly even eggs.  Upon waking, I found the skin on my cheeks to be inflamed with rough and reddish patches of what looks like some sort of rash. “Great”, I thought. ” I have…

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Gluten Free Oats: Are They Real?

Are oats gluten free?  No, most oats are not.  In fact, you may have to search to find gluten free oats because there aren’t that many producers who go the extract gluten-free mile. Why? Remember the acronym B-R-O-W-S I shared with you to help you understand where gluten generally occurs?  Oats…

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Blueberry Pie Smoothie

While out in LA, I had the pleasure of visiting my dear cousin Lisa for a night. Every single time I go to stay with her, I leave with a bunch of new creative tricks for food. She’s currently going to Duke’s Integrative Health Coaching program and starting her own…

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First Steps to Finding Gluten

I remember the moment that I received word that gluten and I needed to break up. It had been a wonderful love affair of pasta, pastries and bread for most of my life growing up in an Italian family. This news was pretty devastating for me.  At the time, it…

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Coconut Water Fruit Popsicles (GF, DF, Vegan)

Who doesn’t like ice pops in the summer heat?  This summer especially!  Between the heat and cost of food, everyone is looking for convenient ways to get the most out of what they’ve got and stay cool while doing it.  Nick, my husband, and I are determined to use any…

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Mexican Fried Rice (GF, Vegan)

If you’re anything like me, then mostly likely you are a busy person.  In fact, the word “busy” might even be an understatement.  So what do you do when you’ve worked all day and arrive home famished? Trust me, last night I seriously considered going out to eat because I…

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Spicy Vegan Cherry Smoothie

Need a jumpstart in your mornings? Check out this easy-to-make vegan cherry smoothie that’s packed with protein and healthy fats! With cherry season just upon us, now is the perfect time to use fresh cherries (or buy them frozen) in your smoothies. If you’re like me, you may have found that…

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Nightshade-Free Peach Salsa

What happens at the height of peach season? You get creative with peaches and make something like my incredibly easy Peach Salsa recipe. This naturally gluten-free, vegan and paleo side can be eaten with tortilla chips or used as a topping to grilled or broiled meat or fish. For those who…

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Why a Gluten Free Diet isn’t the best Weight Loss Plan

Going gluten-free isn’t a great weight-loss plan.  The reason I say this is because the Wall Street Journal published an article  entitled “Giving Up Gluten to Lose Weight?  Not So Fast.” which my mom kindly saved for me. On one hand, I am always happy to see articles like this…

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