Sometimes I make sure my groceries are gluten-free, like pasta for soup, but sometimes I just want the regular stuff. My gluten allergy causes discomfort, but I can eat a little at home in the evening, take some Gas-X and anti-nausea medication, and go to bed.
What does a typical breakfast look like for you?
Two days ago I was admitted to the hospital with severely low potassium and iron levels. I don’t like taking potassium pills because they upset my stomach, so I try to get more potassium through food. I can’t eat a lot of green leafy vegetables because they contain a lot of potassium, so lately I’ve been eating mostly bananas for breakfast. I don’t mind them; they’re convenient and quick.
If I had more time in the morning I would use one to make protein shakes. I can’t eat a lot of protein-containing foods, so protein shakes are a good option for me – even though I don’t really like them. I usually mix bananas with almond milk and Premier Protein gluten-free protein powder.
What are some other go-to meals that you make at home?
I love foods whose flavors make me feel comforted. The week before I was craving something savory so I bought some store bought grilled chicken and white rice and it hit the spot. I also often make chicken noodles or chicken rice soup. These were two of the first meals I found safe when I was first diagnosed and struggling. They helped me see that I would be able to eat delicious food again for the rest of my life, not just plain white rice. Plus, my mom made these soups when I was a kid, so they are definitely comfort food.
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As for to-go options, one of my favorite dishes to take to work is baked sweet potatoes with cream, brown sugar, and cinnamon. It’s really filling and easy to make in the morning and pack to take with you.
What childhood dishes do you still enjoy with your family today?
I wish I could say I could still eat my dad’s fried potato and onion fritters, but they just don’t do it for me anymore. We’ve tried adjusting some things in his recipes so I can still eat them, but we haven’t quite figured it out yet. I will continue to work hard – one day I will not give up this experience!
I also recently discovered that my mom cooks mung beans in a way that doesn’t mess up my stomach. She puts them in a clay pot with chicken broth and lets them simmer all day, which makes them super tender and easy on my system. She would do these for all the holidays growing up and I’m so glad I still have them.
How about going out to eat? When you go to a restaurant, what do you usually order? How many times a week do you eat out versus cook at home?
My boyfriend and I only go out to eat about once a week. Due to my dietary restrictions, I don’t eat fast food, but my favorite sit-down date night spot is Agave, a southwestern restaurant in Atlanta. I loved it before I got sick and it’s still a favorite of mine for sentimental reasons. My options are limited, but I can get their crawfish pasta and ask for it without onions, mushrooms or bell peppers. The pasta is gluten-free, but it’s worth the discomfort for a special night out.
