It's been one month since we cut gluten from our diet, and I
can't believe I'm saying this - I don't miss it at all. Not even a tiny bit.
And I really, really, love bread.
So what gives? I think the trick is to make the alternative so
delicious that it doesn't feel like deprivation. But let me back-track a bit to
the why, because based on the shelf-space and marketing claims devoted to
gluten-free products these days, it seems like everyone's doing it.
The deal with gluten
Consumption of gluten grains wheat (in particular), barley, rye
and spelt (and oats) increase the production of zonulin, a protein that opens
up the spaces between the cells of the intestinal wall. This allows nutrients
and other molecules to enter the intestines, however if someone has a 'leaky
gut' the spaces open up too much and this allows larger protein molecules to
enter the bloodstream where an immunologic reaction can take place. Basically,
gluten is strongly linked to poor gut health and autoimmune conditions. I have
PCOS which is autoimmune in nature, and gut issues, so cutting out gluten is a
no-brainer. Gut flora is passed onto babies via the birth canal, so the odds
are good that Hugo's gut health isn't fantastic either, so he's on board too.
And my husband? He's along for the ride, but still has bread here and
there.
So what are we eating?
Real food, much to the disappointment of food marketers keen for
our gluten-free dollar. Nothing much has changed, we've just had to be a bit
more organised and creative in the kitchen. For many of us, coming up with
different breakfast options is a challenge when toast or cereal is just so
easy, so here's a roundup of what's been on the menu instead.
(From left to right)
1. Bone broth - As I'm working on healing my gut, this is becoming a staple in my diet (the gelatin helps to restore the lining of the digestive tract for better nutrient absorption). Served here with poached eggs, parsley and Pink salt.
2. Buckwheat Bircher muesli - buckwheat is a great substitute for oats if you're looking for breakfast cereal of sorts. I buy this one in bulk which also includes goji berries and sultanas. It's made with activated (soaked) buckwheat which is easier on the digestive system because the phytic acid in the grain has been broken down. I serve it with organic natural yoghurt, but if dairy doesn't sit well with you, coconut yoghurt/milk or almond milk (with no added sugar) are good alternatives.
3. Coconut apple crunch -This quick recipe is from an ebook called 'Rise and Shine' written by Georgia, a naturopath and blogger at Well Nourished. The book is my regular go-to, so many delicious recipes with lots of tips for substitutes for intolerances (and incidentally, empty cupboards!). This brekky features apple, almonds, shredded coconut, cinnamon and carrot. Served with natural yogurt and a choc-coconut granola also from the ebook.
4. Kale and mushroom omelette - an omelette is a brilliant way to get some veggies in at breakfast time and provide sustained energy throughout the morning. I chop up onion and garlic and fry in coconut oil before adding some chopped kale, steamed pumpkin or sweet potato and/or sliced mushrooms. About five eggs whisked with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and poured onto the veggies that are simmering away and it's nearly done. I serve with some sauerkraut, fermented cucumber or fermented carrot.
5. Breakfast salsa - This one is a twist on a recipe from the Well Nourished 'Rise and Shine' ebook that involved pulling together what was in the fridge; eggs, coriander, tomatoes, pecans, mushrooms and fermented cucumber. Have fun and experiment!
6. Asparagus and chicken with poached eggs - it's dishes like this that remind me why I married a chef. He might not cook much anymore, but when he does it's a taste sensation! The chicken breast was sliced thinly and the asparagus lightly blanched before being added to to chicken and coated in coconut oil and chicken-y goodness.
7. Quinoa and chia porridge - this light and warming porridge made in the Thermomix is so good. As is everything created by the amazing Jo Whitton of Quirky Cooking fame. Recipe here.
8. Poached eggs with mushroom, avocado and sauerkraut - pretty self explanatory, really
9. Green (purple) smoothie - we've recently started boosting the goodness of our standard green smoothie (kale or spinach, banana, blueberries, maca powder, ice, water) by adding almonds and The Healthy Chef's organic super food and whey protein. It's a richer, smoother taste and keeps us full for ages, making it a good breakfast option, especially if you need to run out the door.
Have you considered giving up gluten and if so, what are the biggest challenges for you?
