Gluten & Wheat vs. The World

Many of us have been suckered into the belief that wheat products are healthy, full of fiber and nutrients. Did you know that if a loaf of good ol' wheat bread is not labeled "100% Wheat Bread" chances are you are eating bread that is chock full of added molasses to give it the desired 'wheat' coloring? I find this super unsettling, that not only would food manufacturers do this to us, but that they would give us false hopes when we are attempting to better our lives and wellness. After reading more, you may find it unnecessary to keep bread and wheat products in your diet all together.

Gluten (from Latin 'gluten', GLUE)  is a protein composite found in foods processed from wheat and related grain species, including barley and rye. Gluten gives elasticity to dough, helping it rise and keep its shape and often gives the final product a chewy texture. - Gluten also takes between 3-4 months to move through the body, this paired with our arch nemesis, wheat, sets us up for a dangerous track on our fitness journeys.

Wheat bread is totally different than what it used to be, and wheat can be found in everything from vodka to lip stick to the seals on envelopes. Two slices of wheat bread can raise your blood sugar more than two tablespoons of table sugar - YIKES! Gluten is also more likely to cause inflammation within the body and also holds a lot of responsibility for America's rise to obesity and diabetes.

Celiac disease is a condition that damages the lining of the small intestine and prevents it from absorbing parts of food that are important for staying healthy. The damage is due to a reaction to eating gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, rye, and possibly oats. There are 21 million cases (possibly more) of Celiac disease as well as other gluten related issues affecting Americans. 99% of people who have gluten in tolerances are NOT diagnosed.

Another problem with gluten, is similar to all things bad for you, it's also addicting. Gluten contains 'exorphins' which give us the endorphin rush feeling of a runner's high, which bind to the receptors in your brain causing the addictive tendencies of a crack addict. Hence, there are reasons why people never choose to binge on broccoli, but will on cookies & cake. 

This might be an information overload, but just make certain you know how to read a nutrition label, know what is in your food, and find out what foods you may be sensitive to. Not only is getting your food sensitivity levels important for hitting your fitness goals, but it can also aid in overall health and functionality.

Eat Clean. Train Mean. Get Lean.

Working in the fitness industry I've come to find that typically, when it comes to goals, nearly everyone mentions that they want to "tone up". Usually what I find also is that this means something differently for everyone. What does being "in shape" or "toned" mean to you? Is it a part of your goal?

Defining what you are looking for or what your goals mean to you is extremely crucial in finding which path to take to get you there. Being as specific as possible is going to help make your goals measurable and keep your motivation up! If you are new to working out, or need assistance in nutrition, it would be in your best interest to find someone who is professional and has the knowledge to share with you. Keep in mind your body/nutritional needs will be specific to you so it's important to find someone to guide you on your fitness journey to a healthier and happier life. Results are a lifestyle change, not something that will occur through a magic pill or happen over night. So remember to be patient, loving and kind to yourself as you are going through all of the changes.

Writing down positive sayings or mantras and keeping them in places you view often will also assist in keeping your positive, go-getter attitude running high. Also, I've kept some flash cards with mantras written on them in my pocket throughout the day for a little pick-me-up and it works great. So, make sure to write your goals as specific as possible (either save them with pen and paper or electronically), track your progress (measurements & photos), seek assistance if necessary, and keep your chin up because you are well on your way to a healthy, fit lifestyle.