👩‍🍳 "But What Will I Eat?!" A Love Letter to Gluten-Free Food


Hi Reader,

I have to share something that happened this Sunday that totally shifted my perspective (and might change yours too) 🌟

You know those moments when your heart just sinks?

That was me when "Italian" was suggested for our weekly Sunday dinner family get together.

If you're anything like me, your mind probably immediately goes to all the "off-limits" foods – pasta, bread, and more pasta!

Italian isn't known as being the most gluten free of cuisines. Right?

As someone with hypothyroidism who needs to avoid gluten, I almost went into panic mode. But here's where it gets good...

Instead of quietly dreading it, I took a deep breath and asked if we could make it gluten-free.

And what happened next absolutely warmed my heart – my entire family jumped on board with enthusiasm!

What emerged was nothing short of magical.

We created an INCREDIBLE gluten-free spread that would make any Italian nonna proud:

  • A vibrant Sicilian orange and fennel salad sprinkled with crunchy almonds
  • Tender, flavorful meatballs that had everyone reaching for seconds
  • Chicken cacciatore that filled the house with the most amazing aromas
  • My father-in-law even mastered a gluten-free focaccia that was chef's kiss perfect

And because dairy isn't an issue for me {I tested this with an elimination period}, we finished with affogato – vanilla ice cream drowned in rich espresso.

With gorgeous amaretti biscuits [made with almond flour}

Pure heaven!

But - here's the really important bit!:

>> Everything we made was NATURALLY gluten-free. <<

No processed substitutes, no complicated conversions – just simple, real Italian food made with love and fresh ingredients.

Key Takeaways for Your Journey:

  1. Going gluten-free doesn't mean saying goodbye to entire delicious cuisines
  2. Focus on what's naturally free from gluten instead of always seeking substitutes
  3. Don't be afraid to speak up about your needs – you might be surprised by how supportive people can be
  4. Simple, real food can be the most satisfying, nourishing and delicious option

Your Action Steps:

  • Next time you're craving Italian (or any cuisine), look for naturally gluten-free recipes first
  • Start building a collection of go-to dishes that everyone can enjoy
  • Share your dietary needs with loved ones – let them be part of your healing journey

You know what I realized as we sat around that table, laughing and sharing this incredible meal?

The best memories aren't about what we can't eat – they're about the joy of discovering new favorites and sharing them with the people we love.

Here's to creating beautiful moments around food that loves us back! 💕

With warmth

P.S. Join the FREE Facebook Hypothyroid & Hashimotos Support Community here.

PLEASE NOTE - I am NOT a Doctor or Medical Professional of any kind.
The content on this website is strictly for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of medical advice or treatment from a personal physician.
All recipients of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions


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Hi! I'm Thyroid Coach Helen

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