Gluten Reduction and Product Recommendation

For some time, I have had a rash on my legs.  It would come and go with varying levels of intensity.  Sometimes it was just there and I never would have known except to see it.  Sometimes it was itchy and dry.  Other times it was red and burning.  I had been to my regular doctor and a dermatologist and no matter what we tried, it would not go away.  A friend had recommended I try coconut oil.  I had not heard of this before but after doing a little research on my own, I couldn't believe the amount of uses it has.   For a expansive list, click here.

I focused much of my reading on the benefits of using it for skin conditions like eczema (which is the official diagnosis I got at my last visit to the dermatologist) and there seemed to be a fair amount of success.  At the same time, I was also researching the effects of certain food on skin.   Most of my reading was focused on gluten (which I had already done a good deal of reading about because of my daughter's Celiac Disease diagnosis).  Though I tested negative through blood work for Celiac I had long wondered if my skin rash might be an allergic reaction to something I was eating.

I decided, at the same time, to try coconut oil and a dramatic reduction in my gluten intake.  I would say I am about 75% gluten free at this point.  The difference in my legs is amazing!  I can not believe how much less inflamed my skin looks.  So far in regard to the gluten reduction, the only difference I can see is in my skin but that alone has been well worth it.  I am also very happy that I have found a natural remedy that not only works but smells delicious! I have also used the coconut oil on my body as a general moisturizer, as a sweetener in my coffee and as a cooking oil, all of which I am equally impressed.

Whole 30-Eh.

I had every intention of updating this blog more regularly but life, it gets in the way.

I promised to be honest here about my whole 30 experience. So honestly, my whole 30 experience is over.  I found it to be extremely restrictive and in no way motivational or enjoyable.   I am not sure what it says about me but if I am going to stick with something it needs to be reasonable, not extremely hard (especially when it comes to cooking and planning) and not dramatically restrictive.

One thing that has remained...I am about 75% gluten free (with full intentions of going all the way with it).  I haven't noticed much difference yet except with my skin.  The rash that has plagued my legs for over a decade has all but disappeared since making this change.  I sort of feel less bloated but I think I will notice this more as I go forward.

I fully intend to keep this blog up and running to document my journey toward physical and mental wellness in regard to food and how I respond to it.