Five Ways to a Healthier, Gluten-Free Life

Join a CSA or go to your local farmer’s market to pick up fresh, chemical-free seasonal fruits and veggies. Make an effort to eat as many fruits and vegetables as possible.
Take a multi-vitamin. Recent research shows that even people with celiac disease who follow a strict gluten-free diet have nutritional deficiencies, including vitamin B. Vitamin B is essential for turning your food into energy, so taking it can lead to increased energy. Be careful to get the right amount though because too much can lead to neurological symptoms.
Eat more frequent meals. Without complex carbohydrates like whole grain wheat, it can be difficult to maintain a consistent blood sugar level over time. I find that three small meals and two snacks works best. I have a fruit smoothie for breakfast, a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts for a mid-morning snack, followed by a salad or yogurt and fruit for lunch. Then, I often have string cheese for an afternoon snack and something rich in veggies and protein for dinner like stir-fry.
Drink water and breathe deeply. Both are essential for ridding your body of toxins and getting oxygen to your cells.
Exercise. My immunologist recommends 30 minutes of cardio five times per week. Check with your doctor to see what’s right for you. It’s the perfect time of year to get outside. Incorporating physical activity into your daily life, like biking to work or taking the stairs instead of the elevator, is an easy way to fit some exercise into your busy schedule. Alternatively, I find that exercise is a great time to get away and clear my head, especially when jogging and doing yoga.

If this list seems daunting, just take one thing at a time, and work at your own pace. It took me several months to get into the habit of working out regularly, and I built on that by starting to eat more fruits and vegetables. What can you do today to make your gluten-free life a little healthier?

Photo credit: thebittenword.com