In this post, we’ve teamed up with the queen of gluten freedom herself - Rachael from GlutenFreedomInc.com or @freedomrachh on Instagram. She’s all about living your best, most balanced life (and loves to enjoy Mother Raw as part of that!)
Since being diagnosed with celiac, she’s learned a thing or two about navigating the world of gluten-free. We think her tips can apply to anyone who’s looking to live a fuller, more balanced and healthy lifestyle!
I created my platform 5 years ago when I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease, an autoimmune condition that requires me to eat a completely gluten-free diet. It was a challenging transition because all of my favourite foods contained gluten. But, as I grew familiar with the lifestyle, I felt more empowered, and wanted to help others. I started with a blog and an Instagram account to document my journey. I love to eat my way through the best gluten-free foods available and to share with my audience.
Along the way, I’ve learned a thing or two about the gluten-free lifestyle. Today I am sharing 4 things I’ve learned since going gluten-free that have transformed my life, inside and out, been eye-opening and have had such a positive impact on my life:
1) Gluten-free does not always mean healthy.
This was a turning point for me in my health journey. I realized that simply avoiding gluten wasn’t enough. At first I was just so excited to eat all things gluten-free. While I still love my pasta, pizza, and pastries, on a regular basis, I choose to focus on eating real, whole, and naturally gluten-free food that nourishes and fuels my body.
I’m aware that gluten-free does not always equal healthy! I am an advocate for encouraging everyone to be more mindful with what they are eating, regardless of your dietary choice. Mother Raw not only accommodates the gluten-free, vegan & health-conscious consumer but their products are good for you. You can substitute your favourite dressings and dips for their healthier, cleaner version.
2) The importance of reading labels carefully.
My research around living gluten-free led me to uncover some less talked about information about the ingredients that commonly go into gluten-free alternatives. In order to make gluten-free food feel and taste like gluten, some companies get pretty inventive with their blends: starches, fillers, preservatives, and gums.
Living with a food allergy requires that you read labels so you don’t accidentally consume something you shouldn’t, but it also makes you veryaware of what is going in your body, and for me it made me a much more conscious consumer. You can read any one of Mother Raw’s labels and know exactly what is in the product, all of which you can find easily in the grocery store (and many within my own pantry).
3) Food plays a major role in your physical and mental health.
When I cut the gluten, symptoms such as anxiety, night sweats, heart palpitations, and brain fog faded away. I was shocked! Our bodies can tell us so much if we tune in and listen to what it is trying to tell us!
Paying closer attention to the food I am consuming by limiting gluten, dairy, and refined sugars have made a massive difference in my overall wellbeing. Finding products that check all these boxes is important to me, especially in regards to sugar content. Mother Raw sweetens with organic coconut sugar, one of the best lower glycemic options in my opinion.
4) Do what feels best.
Overall, my biggest takeaway and lesson is to be aware of how you are feeling in all facets of your life. Food is just one piece of the puzzle! At the end of the day, do what feels best for you so you can show up in all areas of your life as the most high vibe, radiant version of you!!
Truthfully, I think it is an amazing time for the industry and love how healthier & cleaner choices are becoming more accessible and mainstream. Thank you, Mother Raw, for being a pioneer for those of us wellness enthusiasts who are trying to do better, and for making clean products accessible to all of us (I live for the Japanese dressing)!