Good News for Recently Diagnosed Gluten-Free Newbies!

Gluten has become a major stable in the majority of American diets. Dairy and meat products are the only major food commodities American eat more than flour products. In 2009, the average American consumed 607 pounds of dairy and and 437 pounds of meat, fish, eggs and poultry. Flour product consumption for that same year was 194 pounds. (according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2012 ). That is a 34% increase in flour product consumption from 1980.

Is it any wonder that individuals with gluten sensitivity have a bit of shock when they find out they can no longer eat any wheat, rye, barley, malt or oats ? Wheat flour is an increasing staple of the American diet. We've grown to love cereal for breakfast, sandwiches for lunch, and rolls and butter at dinner. It can seem like a swift kick to the gut to say goodbye to grandmother's cookies or your favorite waffles. At Kay'sNaturals, we empathize with you. We've compiled the best way to get over the gluten-free blues and embrace the new (and better!) diet that will have you feeling stronger and more alive in no time.

Tip #1: Research, research, research.

At first it may seem impossible to maintain your normal lifestyle if you cannot eat gluten. You may think you can't have a normal lunch with your friends, enjoy Christmas desserts, or go on a stress-free vacation. NONE of this is true. Researching gluten substitutes will show you a whole new world of options, including some of the best brownies you've ever tasted! Buy a cookbook, find stores with wheat-flour substitutes, and keep your eyes peeled for gluten-free labels. We suggest doing an Internet search for restaurants with gluten-free options. The abundance of gluten-free options will surprise and delight you.

Tip #2 Find a team to rally around.

Engage other gluten-free individuals and take notes. They'll have tried and true ways to adjust to the new lifestyle. Join a support group, in person or online to vent frustrations, find inspiration, and get convenient tips.

Tip #3 No excuses for cheating.

Lets be honest, at first dumping the wheat habit will seem like a sour break up. Be firm and clear about your goals from day 1. Your new diet is to make you healthier and feel better. The sooner you cut the cord with gluten the easier it will be and the better you will feel. This will require a positive “I can do it!” attitude. Ask your family and friends to be your personal cheerleaders. Also remember, with time the attachment to gluten will become easier. New habits are formed in a month. So stick with your new lifestyle fast and true for a month (while bring patient with yourself if you make mistakes), and suddenly you won't even think of being gluten-free as a burden or a chore. It will be the most obvious and easiest choice you can make.

Tip #4: Find what works for you

After a few weeks of research, taste testing, finding people to support you, and forming gluten-free habits, you will know what works best for you and eating will be simple again. For many gluten-free eaters having easy on-the-go options are important when gluten-free options are not readily accessible. It's also important to eat what tastes good and feels good to the body. That is the goal of Kay's Naturals products. We're a certified gluten-free facility so you will never have to worry about cross-contamination. With our all-natural ingredients, high protein and low sugar levels; we're the best on-the-go snack on the market. Do yourself a favor and buy a sample pack to find out what product you enjoy the most. To shop online click here.

Tip #5: Get a welcome package for yourself!

Start your gluten-free life on the right track with a heartwarming and mind informing welcome package by signing up here: www.cureceliacdisease.org/living-with-celiac/care-packages

We warmly welcome you to contact Kay's Naturals, Inc. with any questions or concerns. We wish everyone happy eating and gluten-free living!