Hypothyroidism? Why You Should Absolutely Quit Gluten Now | Celiac Handbook

It is estimated that approximately 90 percent of hypothyroidism in the United States is caused by an autoimmune condition. In these cases of autoimmune hypothyroidism, known as Hashimoto’s, antibodies attack the thyroid, resulting in thyroid tissue destruction. There is evidence showing gluten plays a significant role in driving the antibody attack against your thyroid.

Gluten tricks your body into attacking itself

The protein portion of gluten, known as gliadin, enters the bloodstream through the gut in those with sensitivities or intestinal permeability (leaky gut). Your immune system recognizes this protein as non-self and creates antibodies against gliadin. In a process known as molecular mimicry, gliadin closely resembles the thyroid gland, leading the gliadin antibodies to mistakenly attack the thyroid. So, your body’s response every time you eat gluten is to make antibodies to the gliadin molecule – antibodies that then attack your thyroid.

If you have Hashimoto’s, you are producing thyroid antibodies. If you have thyroid antibodies and are eating gluten, you are driving your body to attack your thyroid.

Hypothyroidism? Why You Should Absolutely Quit Gluten Now | Celiac Handbook

Choose the Right Sun Protection

Hello Beautiful | Ask Our Esty: How do I choose the right sun protection, help I need a guide!

There are two kinds of rays that penetrate the ozone: UVA and UVB. UVB rays can cause superficial damage, like sunburns, while UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis and cause mayhem, breaking down the collagen and elastin that holds your skin in place. UVA rays are responsible for the aging aspects of sun exposure like wrinkling, loss of firmness and hyperpigmentation.

Here are some facts and tips for preventing sun damage throughout the year:

Seek out the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. This is when the UV index is at its highest and you are more susceptible to the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays.
You should always use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For all of your fun outdoor activities, use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
The SPF level specifies the amount of time you can spend in the sun without burning, not how strong a product is. An SPF 30 is not tougher than an SPF 15; it just means you won’t need to reapply it as often.
Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside.
You should reapply sun protection at a minimum of every two hours, but if you’re swimming or working up a sweat, reapply immediately. It’s better to be safe than burnt and sorry.
Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths, because this is where you are just asking for wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, age spots and, in extreme cases, skin cancer. Just one indoor tanning session alone increases users’ chances of developing melanoma by 20%, and each additional session during the same year boosts the risk almost another 2%. (1)
Try to wear protective clothing, including a wide brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. The fashion selections and options are endless!
Don’t forget the kiddos! Keep newborns out of the sun, and remember that sunscreen should be used on babies over the age of six months.
Self-checks are important, so examine your skin head-to-toe every month and see your physician every year over the age of 35 for a professional skin exam.

MyChelle has an array of über-safe, natural sun protectants that will guard against both UVA and UVB rays. Titanium Dioxide and clear Zinc Oxide offer clean, broad-spectrum defense that helps prevent the signs of aging, and research has even shown that Zinc Oxide can shield against ultraviolet rays as well. What’s more, our sun products are vegan friendly and loaded with skin-benefiting nutrients that are suitable for all skin types.

Discover the perfect MyChelle Sun Protection for you:

Moisturize and protect

Use Daily Defense SPF 17, which hydrates the skin while providing full spectrum UVA/UVB protection. A favorite item for those with normal to oily skin.

Safeguard your skin

Sun Shield SPF 28 Unscented is a full spectrum UVA/UVB sun defense that offers powerfully effective protection and is non-irritating. Perfect for those with sensitive skin.

Coconut-enriched protection

Sun Shield SPF 28 Coconut is also a full spectrum UVA/UVB sun defense that offers powerfully effective protection, but this product has a delicious natural coconut scent. A must-have for coconut lovers!

Boosted benefits

Try Replenishing Solar Defense SPF 30, which will avert photo-damage, reduce the appearance of fine lines and maintain moisture levels – this high level sunscreen protector does it all! Great for anyone looking for added benefits from their sun protection.

(1) Boniol M, Autier P, Boyle P, Gandini S. Cutaneous melanoma attributable to sunbed use: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ 2012; 345:e4757. doi: 10.1136/bmj.e4757

____________________________________________

Catie Wiggy is the Director of Education for MyChelle Dermaceuticals. She has been working in the skin care industry for over 13 years as a makeup artist, brand educator, manager, innovator and licensed esthetician. She holds several certifications in esthetics and has hands-on experience with chemical peels, microdermabrasions, acne management and anti-aging treatments.

Gluten Free Skin Care

MyChelle’s scientifically advanced formulas are based on clean, natural bioactives that provide unmatched, professional results.

All MyChelle Dermaceutical products are Vegetarian,Cruelty-free, and Free of Phthalates, Parabens, Sulfates, Ureas, ArtificialFragrances and Colors, Petroleum, GMOs, and Gluten.

A Cruelty-Free Company

Here at MyChelle, we’re not just nature lovers but animal lovers, as well. We believe that as beautiful as the Earth itself are the many creatures who call our planet home.

MyChelle is proud to be on PETA’s list of certified cruelty-free companies. This means that we have verified that we do not conduct, commission or pay for any tests on animals for ingredients, formulations, or finished products, and also that we have pledged not to do so in the future.

In addition, MyChelle has partnered with the WILD Foundation to support their efforts to protect wildlife and wilderness around the world—and we love discovering like-minded individuals and companies who share our passion for and commitment to Mother Earth and all of her children

Carrot Seed is good for....

Carrot Seed is great for more things than skin care

Vitamin Rich Foods

"A Chart of Vitamin Rich Foods" on Health Perch

Pantry List Printable

Better than the Dollar Store

I love Rite Aid! These items are in their dollar section, which is pretty darn awesome I might add! Do you know what makes the Rite Aid Dollar Section better than the Dollar Store? I have a Plenti Card, so these items were $.90 each... yes, that's right 90 cents each. What is even better is that my Plenti purchases earn me points to spend as cash on future shopping adventures. I am not a paid affiliate being paid to write this post.

Save money with Rite Aid by earning Plenti points and shopping in the dollar section and pay less than a dollar!!

More posts about Rite Aid will be coming soon!!

Mom Bag for College

Mom Bag for College Student

Sending your student off to college this fall? Create a Mom Bag to take care of them in your absence! When your student needs something... have them look in their Mom Bag... most likely it will be there!!

Things I would add to this bag would be OTC pain medication and some laundry detergent!

This bag includes:

Duct Tape

Blue Tape

Stapler

Tape

Pencil Sharpener

Pencils

Pens

Envelopes to send letters

Highlighters

Sharpies

Ruler

Scissors

Eraser

Mini Comp Book for notes

Soap Container

Wash Cloth

Rubber-bands

Playing Cards

Tums

Chap-stick

Emergen C

Airborne

Deodorant

Shampoo

Conditioner

Body Wash

Thermometer

Wet Wipes

Solar Flash Light

Power Strip

Screwdriver

Pliers

Sewing Kit

Adhesive Hooks

Pepto Bismol

Imodium

Combs

Razor

Hair Ties

Bobby Pins

Sunscreen

Skin Cream

Ace Wrap

Neosporin

Band-aids

First Aid Wrap

Aloe Vera Gel

Ear Plugs

Anti-Bacterial Gel

Toothpaste

Nail Trimmer Set

Q-Tips

Rescue Blanket

Batteries

Charger for phone and laptop

Gum

Ziplock Baggies

Gluten Free Fail

A week ago I had a Gluten Free Success when serving my family a Gluten Free Meal.. they did not notice I used Gluten Free Pasta for Spaghetti...

NOT tonight.... I was called out immediately on the Gluten Free Banana Bread using..... I have to admit I can't taste the difference since I haven't had Banana Bread for 2.5 years.... but my husband and son knew it was Gluten Free by the texture and taste.

This is how the Banana Bread turned out.... It was fine.... for me... but it did not rise like the bread we have baked in the past. I used our Family Beloved Recipe, only substituting the Pillsbury GF Flour vs the standard flour. So.... bottom line, I will be searching for another GF flour to create the perfect Banana Bread in disguise for my family!. This was not the blend to win them over on GF!!

Leaky Gut: the Cause of Your Health Problems 4 Steps to End It - Dr. Axe

Leaky Gut: the Cause of Your Health Problems 4 Steps to End It - Dr. Axe

Graphic of leaky gut problems

Beef Stew (package directions)

Servings
4

Prep Time
5 minutes

Cook Time
8 hours

INGREDIENTS

1 package Wildtree Beef Stew Seasoning Mix

1 pound beef stew meat

1/2 pound baby carrots

1/2 pound potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1 cup frozen pearl onions

1 cup water

NUTRITIONAL INFO

Calories:		230
Fat:		5g
Saturated Fat:		2g
Carbohydrates:		22g

Fiber:		4g
Protein:		27g
Cholesterol:		75mg
Sodium:		300mg

Beef Stew Shepherd's Pie

2 pounds red potatoes

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 cup low fat milk

1/2 yellow onion, diced

1 pound lean ground beef

8 ounces frozen mixed vegetables

1 cup water

1 (8 ounce) can no salt added tomato sauce

1 package Wildtree Beef Stew Seasoning Mix

2 tablespoons chopped chives

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 400°F. Add potatoes to a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes or until tender; drain. Return to saucepan and mash with butter and milk. Season mashed potatoes with salt and pepper if desired. Meanwhile, heat a 10-inch cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and completely cooked through. Stir in mixed vegetables, water, tomato sauce, and Beef Stew Seasoning Mix. Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking for about 2-3 minutes until sauce has thickened. Remove from heat and carefully spread mashed potatoes over beef mixture in skillet. Top with chives and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden.

Nutritional Boosters

Rice & Corn Flakes... Gluten Free? THINK AGAIN

I found out the hard way with the generic rice purchased at Safeway that is was NOT Gluten Free.... please, please, please READ THE LABELS!!

Shopping as a Celiac is tricky... what I assume would be Gluten Free is not always the case. Don't be me and come home with products you assume are safe for consumption to find out otherwise with symptoms.

This Generic Rice I purchased at Safeway "MAY Contain Wheat" ... well my bodies reaction to it was, "YES, this rice is not gluten free" I had symptoms for 8 days after consuming this rice. My assumption is that when it says "may contain wheat that it is processed in a plant that also processes wheat.

I have found that Minute Rice White Rice IS INDEED Gluten Free. It is my go to for rice now. Eating out at friends or restaurants where they offer Gluten Free Rice is a joke, because of what I learned the hard way. If the packaging doesn't CLEARLY state it is Gluten Free or no wording of WHEAT is on the packaging
then steer clear!

Life for a Celiac isn't as simple as everyone thinks it will be... just steer clear of Gluten and you are GOOD... WRONG. Assume that Gluten is everywhere until you prove otherwise!!

Case in point... Corn Flakes... made from CORN, right??? NOOOOOOO

Please make educated choices when shopping. Understand the labeling and what it means. If a label doesn't clearly state it is Gluten Free... then it ISN'T.

Baking Tips for Gluten-Free Goodies

Tips for Baking with Gluten-Free Flour | Vitacost.com Blog

Each gluten-free flour has its own personality. Gluten-free grain flours include amaranth, teff, quinoa, brown rice, white rice and certified gluten-free oat flour. Nut flours, such as almond, hazelnut and peanut flour, are packed with protein and especially good in cookies. Other “safe” flours include coconut, chickpea and soy flour. Experiment with different combinations and ratios to discover which ones give you the best taste and texture for your creations. Here are some more key tips to get you started:

Boost nutrition

You can also buy many pre-made gluten-free, all-purpose flour blends that have already done all the work of finding the best ratios.

Combine a variety of gluten-free flours to enhance nutrition.
Use whole grain or enriched, gluten-free flours.
You can also substitute up to 1/4 cup ground flaxseeds plus 1/4 cup water for 1/4 cup flour in a recipe. Note: flax absorbs more moisture.

Maximize moistness

Gluten-free baking can often be dry, so it’s important to add moisture.

Add gelatin, extra egg, butter or oil to the recipe.
Honey or brown rice syrup can help retain moisture.
Brown sugar often works better than white.
Add fruits, such as pears, applesauce or canned pumpkin.
Dough enhancers improve tenderness and help prevent your goodies from becoming stale too fast.

Pump up the flavor

Try doubling or even tripling the spices or vanilla in a recipe.
Upgrade the recipe by adding sweet or salty mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, dried fruit or raw nuts.

Keep it light

To add lightness, increase the baking powder and/or baking soda in the recipe by 25 percent.
Sift flours and starches prior to measuring. Combine and sift again after measuring to improve the texture of your baked good.
Keep gluten-free dough in the refrigerator for at least 1/2 hour (up to overnight) to soften and improve the final texture of the product.

Slow cooking

Baked goods that are gluten free tend to brown faster on the outside, and cook slower on the inside. Lowering the baking temperature by 25 degrees and extending the cooking time by a third is a good rule of thumb, but of course you need to keep a watchful eye.

Bake in smaller-than-usual portions, such as small loaf pans instead of standard size; use mini-muffins or English muffin tins instead of large muffin tins.

Remember that gluten-free baking is a trial-and-error process. Keep at it—and keep your sense of humor, too! When life does give you a not-so-great loaf of gluten-free bread, you can always turn it into breadcrumbs. Baked sweet “mistakes” can be crumble toppings or eaten as cereal.