I'm not sure what it is about allergies; but I find that the farther I delve into them the more aware of our environmental impact I become.
Part of it is the quest for a cause, which may lead to a cure. Part of it is becoming aware of the way our food chain works, which raises more questions than it seems to answer. And part of it is simply that the more aware I am of what is IN food, the less I want it in my (or my kids') bodies. It's not about avoiding allergens. It's about our safety, and our society's sustainability.
What would we do if suddenly massive truck routes were made impassable? If we were forced to eat fresh produce and meat without grains?
This happened in parts of Europe during the second world war. This dangerous diet led to...increased health. But, during the second world war, we still had memories of how to farm. We had a little extra space to garden. We had memories of how to prepare and preserve our own food, or there were plenty of people around who could teach us.
And there were a lot fewer of us to feed. In an age of microwaves, freezers and take out containers, how many would know how to plan and execute a month's worth of meals if heaven forbid there were no more factory food deliveries? There's a commercial that we used to laugh at. "Without us, some guys would starve".
"So true," we joked.
But when we entered the realm of food allergies and started cooking from scratch, we stopped laughing. With an increased awareness of ingredients, and additives, and the true definition of cooking from scratch, the jingle seemed too hit too close to home. And all of these realizations led us to an increased awareness of sustainability.
Allergies themselves are overwhelming, especially when you have a slew of them that require multiple pages to list. Corn being one of the toughest allergies to live with, since it even shows up in the citric acid rinse on bagged salad. Sustainability isn't a main concern.
And yet, it is. Corn is the number one source cited when companies talk about environmentally friendly "green" resources. But it isn't sustainable. It isn't a sustainable crop, it requires a lot of gunk to grow industrially, and then it takes a lot of energy and effort to turn cobs into something that doesn't resemble a kernel, an ear or a husk. It's just natural, and sounds more sustainable than petroleum and plastic.
I now look at food in a new light. I wonder about the modifications we've put it through the past several decades. Trying to grow a better variety, something easier or hardier or simply more aesthetically pleasing. I wonder about the cost of our actions. The loss of heirloom varieties of plants, the loss of diversity. I worry about what exactly is coursing through the veins of my children. I've seen the detrimental effects of food dyes on Bumblebee. I've seen a playful Penguin double over, pale and sweaty, from a simple snack.
I hear them complain of random tummy aches or mild headaches, and I wonder what else might be going on. I look at ingredient lists and ask myself why, exactly, they need BHT or TBHQ. Xanthan gum might improve the texture, but how much can a body really handle? And what about all those synthetic vitamins? Grown en masse in laboratories to try and replace some of the nutrients lost in the soil from our poor farming practices, do our bodies know what to do with them? And the process itself can't be especially good for the environment.
None of this would ever have been given more than a fleeting thought, I'm certain, if it weren't for the food allergies. I used to figure that what was in the food wasn't all that bad, I read lists...but not that closely. Carageenan? Hypromellose? tocopherols? High fructose corn syrup? They had to come from somewhere. And the FDA approved them. That was good enough to consume them in moderation.
And now I wonder. Not only what they do to us, but what effect do they have on the environment? What unseen damage can they do?
I note that food isn't the only thing with an ingredient list, and the personal care aisle scares me, too. Products designed to be washed away into our water supply. With names like Polyethylene (which, by the way, is bits of plastic designed to help exfoliate. Bits of plastic and corn derivatives, bound together for eternity and washed into our water supply, where any bacteria and large particles might be cleaned up...but anything minute is likely to remain in tact and be ingested by something else, animal or human.) or ammonium lauryl sulfate (a foaming agent commonly derived from coconut or palm alcohols) what sort of effect do they have on our water supply? Or the quality of the soil they drain into?
You see, the awareness of cross contamination, and the inability to sterilize away cornstarch dust or drops of peanut oil, makes me aware that nothing vanishes from our planet. It may get absorbed, or rearranged, or diluted. But it doesn't vanish. The problem may begin, for our family, with allergen containment, but the question of "why" leads us to the bigger picture. The chemicals and GMO's whose safety I question for my family aren't easily contained. The wind blows, the bees pollinate, and flowers blossom freely. They don't know where the boundaries between organic and inorganic lay. And honestly, as a society we don't know the long term effects.
Most of us don't give it more than a fleeting thought. I know I never did. I tried to toss my water bottle into the recycle bin instead of the trash can, I parroted the idea that organic was better but I didn't really deeply care. Not until the allergies opened my eyes, and I began not only seeing the cause and effect of something as ubiquitous as food but questioning choices I'd never thought to question before.
While some studies are linking allergies to environmental causes, I'm finding that allergies are lowering our personal environmental impact in a lot of little ways. Sure, I have to drive farther to get to the grocery store that carries gluten free pasta, but I don't waste time idling in a drive through. I don't buy many single serve packages, and we gravitate toward environmentally friendly cleaning aids like baking soda and vinegar.
Truthfully, I don't know if I'm happy to know all I know. I'd be perfectly happy to still be in the dark regarding the origins of microcrystalline cellulose and astaxanthin. In fact, I don't think I'd miss being able to spell either one without a cheat sheet. Awareness breeds responsibility.
While I can't do as much as I want for the environment, awareness gives me the opportunity to do more than I might have before and allergies give me the motivation. Maybe someday my grandkids will have a planet to inherit, after all.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
"Mommy, promise not to get offended if I tell you something? Promise?"
Um, okay.
"You might become famous someday. You might be famous for having the most food allergies."
I found it amusing, not offensive. And I can see how it would look that way to a child who has spent the last 10 years on a food allergy diagnostic roller coaster, especially when one of them is corn.
Um, okay.
"You might become famous someday. You might be famous for having the most food allergies."
I found it amusing, not offensive. And I can see how it would look that way to a child who has spent the last 10 years on a food allergy diagnostic roller coaster, especially when one of them is corn.
So...What do you eat?
Last week we started a Candida diet that was also (mostly) free of gluten, casein, corn, and a host of other smaller allergens.
The verdict? Success. And Mr. Violets is sick of salad.
In the world of food allergies, one question seems to arise more than any other. At least, when the subject of either corn or gluten is involved. That questions is..."What do you eat?" (said in a variety of tones ranging from pity to suspicion or outrage)
So here's a list of dinner dishes for a week's worth of meals.
Baked cod on a bed of spinach and onions. (3 thumbs up. Bumblebee declined to taste.)
Homemade 'quiche' (4 wavery thumbs up. It's better with some sort of cheese. Off the candida diet, we make two dishes, one with dairy cheese one with dairy free corny cheese.)
Chicken breast with mashed turnips and salad. (It's better than it sounds. 3 thumbs up, Bumblebee only gives a 4th thumb up for the salad. But she at least contemplated the turnips.)
Tuna casserole. (not gourmet, but we like it.)
Crepes with nut butter and soup.
Spaghetti soufflee
Omelets
There are a lot of eggs in there, but eggs are a good source of protein, calories and fat. And they're cheap, which goes a long ways in their favor. Next week, we're looking forward to Mr. Violet's diet including beans and sweet potatoes again...adding several potential delights to our menu.
We found that the second week was a bit harder than the first week. We wanted to revert to our old "make a starch and everyone chooses their own veggies and protein" cycle. And the heat wave that hit made our appetites wane. But we seem to be muddling through. Tonight's menu is stuffed squash for Mr. Violets and the girls; leftovers for me. Not bad; and could be made corn free if you have a safe source of ground beef. (or you could probably use lentils. They aren't listed on the candida free diet, and I haven't actually tried adding them back to my own diet...but I can't eat squash and am still deciding how well tomato sits.) While nothing we made was gourmet, and probably doesn't compete much with restaurant fare, it was homey and tasty and filling. What more can you ask for?
That it feed a whole family? Well, it did that, too. (Or it would have if Bumblebee were just a little less stubborn. But again, she tried and gets points for eating salad almost everynight.)
The verdict? Success. And Mr. Violets is sick of salad.
In the world of food allergies, one question seems to arise more than any other. At least, when the subject of either corn or gluten is involved. That questions is..."What do you eat?" (said in a variety of tones ranging from pity to suspicion or outrage)
So here's a list of dinner dishes for a week's worth of meals.
Baked cod on a bed of spinach and onions. (3 thumbs up. Bumblebee declined to taste.)
Homemade 'quiche' (4 wavery thumbs up. It's better with some sort of cheese. Off the candida diet, we make two dishes, one with dairy cheese one with dairy free corny cheese.)
Chicken breast with mashed turnips and salad. (It's better than it sounds. 3 thumbs up, Bumblebee only gives a 4th thumb up for the salad. But she at least contemplated the turnips.)
Tuna casserole. (not gourmet, but we like it.)
Crepes with nut butter and soup.
Spaghetti soufflee
Omelets
There are a lot of eggs in there, but eggs are a good source of protein, calories and fat. And they're cheap, which goes a long ways in their favor. Next week, we're looking forward to Mr. Violet's diet including beans and sweet potatoes again...adding several potential delights to our menu.
We found that the second week was a bit harder than the first week. We wanted to revert to our old "make a starch and everyone chooses their own veggies and protein" cycle. And the heat wave that hit made our appetites wane. But we seem to be muddling through. Tonight's menu is stuffed squash for Mr. Violets and the girls; leftovers for me. Not bad; and could be made corn free if you have a safe source of ground beef. (or you could probably use lentils. They aren't listed on the candida free diet, and I haven't actually tried adding them back to my own diet...but I can't eat squash and am still deciding how well tomato sits.) While nothing we made was gourmet, and probably doesn't compete much with restaurant fare, it was homey and tasty and filling. What more can you ask for?
That it feed a whole family? Well, it did that, too. (Or it would have if Bumblebee were just a little less stubborn. But again, she tried and gets points for eating salad almost everynight.)
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
The Grocery Bill
Some days, I look at the grocery bill and feel guilty. After all, I'm the one who has the most restrictions. Chocolate chips cost $3.39; rather than $1.99. Pasta is pretty close to the same. I can't swap brands for a better price. My daughter may be gluten free...but she isn't corn free. And sometimes gluten free by itself isn't all that expensive.
But recently I was given a puzzle. As you may recall if you read my blog regularly, I was recently on an extended liquid diet. Consisting of mostly broth, pureed veggies from said broth, applesauce and gelatin.
It wasn't a very expensive diet.
I was still making meals. The grocery bill should have gone down a bit, with Mr. Violets having extra leftovers for lunches and Penguin having extra leftovers for munching. Oddly, it went up quite a bit...just for those two weeks. I was truly puzzled when I looked over the credit card bill.
But then I turned to the receipts, and I looked in the fridge.
It seems that instead of using those leftovers, new meals were made and consumed. And instead of finishing off the last bit of hummus, it was pushed to the back to make room for a new tub. There were 3 tubs of (unsafe for me) margarine in there. And the summer sale stash I'd stockpiled?
Gone.
So this is what happens when moms get sick.
No one went hungry while I was down. (And no one goes hungry when I'm *not* down) Actually, I wasn't all that down and out...the liquid fast thing helped a lot. I was tired, but mostly functional. I did work more on "get that yourself".
I had noticed that the tupperware cupboard was looking a little bare. I hadn't noticed how much toast Gluten Free Penguin was enjoying. I was just mentioning the leftovers and presuming the family would follow through.
Before this turns into some sort of poor me rant, I want to skip straight to the point.
Eating allergen free doesn't have to be all that expensive. It's only expensive when you don't mediate your choices. Look in the fridge, use those leftovers. Put off shopping trips, and while it's important to stock up on sale items when they are on sale...they need to still be used as if you don't have a huge stockpile and are still limited to one or two packages a week or month.
I can make a tuna casserole that's safe for all of us. It's not gourmet, but it's tasty. It costs about a dollar a serving. But if we throw half of it away, it costs $2 per serving. And the amount that is thrown away gets replaced by other, often more expensive, snacks and lunch items.
Likewise...rice and beans costs maybe $4 total? And after it serves us, there is enough rice leftover, generally, for fried rice tomorrow night. But if we throw half of it away, the cost doubles. And leftover night becomes "easy meal" night...and easy meals are generally a little more expensive at least for the ones eating single serve items.
On the other hand, the old standby, a sandwich, costs about $2 each for Penguin. More if dairy free cheese is involved. And it's not filling by itself. $2 doesn't sound like much, but it adds up quickly. The worst part is that gf bread may be a good vehcle for hummus, tomatoes and other items...but it isn't in itself very nourishing.
It's good to know that my corn-free status isn't the sole source of high grocery bills. Allergy eating can be expensive...but it can be affordable, too. With a little bit of planning.
But recently I was given a puzzle. As you may recall if you read my blog regularly, I was recently on an extended liquid diet. Consisting of mostly broth, pureed veggies from said broth, applesauce and gelatin.
It wasn't a very expensive diet.
I was still making meals. The grocery bill should have gone down a bit, with Mr. Violets having extra leftovers for lunches and Penguin having extra leftovers for munching. Oddly, it went up quite a bit...just for those two weeks. I was truly puzzled when I looked over the credit card bill.
But then I turned to the receipts, and I looked in the fridge.
It seems that instead of using those leftovers, new meals were made and consumed. And instead of finishing off the last bit of hummus, it was pushed to the back to make room for a new tub. There were 3 tubs of (unsafe for me) margarine in there. And the summer sale stash I'd stockpiled?
Gone.
So this is what happens when moms get sick.
No one went hungry while I was down. (And no one goes hungry when I'm *not* down) Actually, I wasn't all that down and out...the liquid fast thing helped a lot. I was tired, but mostly functional. I did work more on "get that yourself".
I had noticed that the tupperware cupboard was looking a little bare. I hadn't noticed how much toast Gluten Free Penguin was enjoying. I was just mentioning the leftovers and presuming the family would follow through.
Before this turns into some sort of poor me rant, I want to skip straight to the point.
Eating allergen free doesn't have to be all that expensive. It's only expensive when you don't mediate your choices. Look in the fridge, use those leftovers. Put off shopping trips, and while it's important to stock up on sale items when they are on sale...they need to still be used as if you don't have a huge stockpile and are still limited to one or two packages a week or month.
I can make a tuna casserole that's safe for all of us. It's not gourmet, but it's tasty. It costs about a dollar a serving. But if we throw half of it away, it costs $2 per serving. And the amount that is thrown away gets replaced by other, often more expensive, snacks and lunch items.
Likewise...rice and beans costs maybe $4 total? And after it serves us, there is enough rice leftover, generally, for fried rice tomorrow night. But if we throw half of it away, the cost doubles. And leftover night becomes "easy meal" night...and easy meals are generally a little more expensive at least for the ones eating single serve items.
On the other hand, the old standby, a sandwich, costs about $2 each for Penguin. More if dairy free cheese is involved. And it's not filling by itself. $2 doesn't sound like much, but it adds up quickly. The worst part is that gf bread may be a good vehcle for hummus, tomatoes and other items...but it isn't in itself very nourishing.
It's good to know that my corn-free status isn't the sole source of high grocery bills. Allergy eating can be expensive...but it can be affordable, too. With a little bit of planning.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Corn Crazies
I can have chocolate. But not Hershey. (Or Dove, or Palmer, or Nestle)
I can have eggs. But only certain, specific eggs. Not generic grocery store eggs.
I can eat apples. If they are unwaxed and peeled. But that doesn't mean I can have any old applesauce.
I can eat rice. But only if it's un-enriched, and only from certain farms that don't grow corn.
The restrictions sound crazy. Laughable, even.
I can remember being relieved that I was "just" allergic to corn. Just corn. It sounded so easy. But things got harder, I sought help. I started reading and found a community of corn-allergic individuals. My eyes widened, I shook my head, I congratulated myself on not going overboard. And then, slowly, I learned that I needed to be just as fanatical as others seemed to be. There are times I wonder if I've gone crazy. But I've spent too much time recovering from unplanned, unexpected, hindsight revealed 'oopses' to believe that it could possibly be just in my head.
Every so often it gets to be too much. I step outside myself and look at the restrictions through a stranger's eyes and think I'm going too far. And although I try to rationalize it out, and even talk myself into taking chances, I find others in a similar situation voicing their own shaken faith in their bodies' reactions to normal, healthy, should-be-safe food. More often than not, the culprit is quickly and easily identified in the form of an added enrichment, or a new preservative. Sometimes it requires a little digging...like a cross contaminated batch of almonds (perhaps shipped in the same loading truck as corn?) How can you dispute unintentional blind trials that end in proof? Especially when there are multiple people reporting the same experience. Maybe our methods aren't scientific, but they aren't easy to dismiss either.
That's what makes social events so hard. Even water is softened with corn derived citric acid, or the taste is improved by corny minerals, or it's bottled in a corn-based environmentally 'friendly' polymer. People might overlook the fact that you abstain from cookies. But if you can't even accept the water they hand you due to allergies...well, the looks are enough to make even the least self conscious of us blush.
Whispers of eating disorders aren't uncommon, or surprising. Especially now that Orthorexia is the diagnosis du jour.
For me, as I suspect it is for others, the truth is much more complicated. There is no self-loathing involved. I'm tempted to give in, and hang the consequences. Regardless of caloric content, I'd love to eat that cookie. Taste the pasta salad, or at least have a few pieces of the fruit plate. (I'd settle for drinking some of that new-branded water in the cooler) But in reality, the consequences aren't worth it. I want to share the meal, but I want to function tomorrow. Whether it's hives, boils or GI malfunction...the reactions are not fun, comfortable, or something to be shared in public. They also aren't mediated by any part of the brain other than the immune system. IgE, IgG...the body is attempting to protect itself.
It's unfortunate that without demonstrating those reactions, it's difficult at best to convince others that they are nonetheless real and valid reasons for food avoidance.
The trouble with corn is that even when I'm avoiding everything as I should be, there are little, subtle exposures that slip in. These exposures seem to keep me from fully recovering or ever being 100% reliable. And the years of damage have affected my daily stamina. I don't have the energy I should, and it isn't depression...it's malnutrition. Even if/when I'm eating healthfully, the long term damages are still there.
With a corn allergy, sometimes it feels like I'm sitting in a box seat. I'm not entirely alone, thanks to the internet, but I don't exactly fit in with most of the other groups. Whether it's the food allergy advocates, the Celiac sufferers or the tree-huggers; I have 3/4 of the values in common...but there's still a wall between us made of that eco-friendly kernel, insidious yellow seed, corn.
I can have eggs. But only certain, specific eggs. Not generic grocery store eggs.
I can eat apples. If they are unwaxed and peeled. But that doesn't mean I can have any old applesauce.
I can eat rice. But only if it's un-enriched, and only from certain farms that don't grow corn.
The restrictions sound crazy. Laughable, even.
I can remember being relieved that I was "just" allergic to corn. Just corn. It sounded so easy. But things got harder, I sought help. I started reading and found a community of corn-allergic individuals. My eyes widened, I shook my head, I congratulated myself on not going overboard. And then, slowly, I learned that I needed to be just as fanatical as others seemed to be. There are times I wonder if I've gone crazy. But I've spent too much time recovering from unplanned, unexpected, hindsight revealed 'oopses' to believe that it could possibly be just in my head.
Every so often it gets to be too much. I step outside myself and look at the restrictions through a stranger's eyes and think I'm going too far. And although I try to rationalize it out, and even talk myself into taking chances, I find others in a similar situation voicing their own shaken faith in their bodies' reactions to normal, healthy, should-be-safe food. More often than not, the culprit is quickly and easily identified in the form of an added enrichment, or a new preservative. Sometimes it requires a little digging...like a cross contaminated batch of almonds (perhaps shipped in the same loading truck as corn?) How can you dispute unintentional blind trials that end in proof? Especially when there are multiple people reporting the same experience. Maybe our methods aren't scientific, but they aren't easy to dismiss either.
That's what makes social events so hard. Even water is softened with corn derived citric acid, or the taste is improved by corny minerals, or it's bottled in a corn-based environmentally 'friendly' polymer. People might overlook the fact that you abstain from cookies. But if you can't even accept the water they hand you due to allergies...well, the looks are enough to make even the least self conscious of us blush.
Whispers of eating disorders aren't uncommon, or surprising. Especially now that Orthorexia is the diagnosis du jour.
For me, as I suspect it is for others, the truth is much more complicated. There is no self-loathing involved. I'm tempted to give in, and hang the consequences. Regardless of caloric content, I'd love to eat that cookie. Taste the pasta salad, or at least have a few pieces of the fruit plate. (I'd settle for drinking some of that new-branded water in the cooler) But in reality, the consequences aren't worth it. I want to share the meal, but I want to function tomorrow. Whether it's hives, boils or GI malfunction...the reactions are not fun, comfortable, or something to be shared in public. They also aren't mediated by any part of the brain other than the immune system. IgE, IgG...the body is attempting to protect itself.
It's unfortunate that without demonstrating those reactions, it's difficult at best to convince others that they are nonetheless real and valid reasons for food avoidance.
The trouble with corn is that even when I'm avoiding everything as I should be, there are little, subtle exposures that slip in. These exposures seem to keep me from fully recovering or ever being 100% reliable. And the years of damage have affected my daily stamina. I don't have the energy I should, and it isn't depression...it's malnutrition. Even if/when I'm eating healthfully, the long term damages are still there.
With a corn allergy, sometimes it feels like I'm sitting in a box seat. I'm not entirely alone, thanks to the internet, but I don't exactly fit in with most of the other groups. Whether it's the food allergy advocates, the Celiac sufferers or the tree-huggers; I have 3/4 of the values in common...but there's still a wall between us made of that eco-friendly kernel, insidious yellow seed, corn.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Just one more thing to worry about with allergies
According to a recent study, children with Celiac Disease, like those with any chronic illness, are more at risk for emotional and behavior problems than their peers.
I don't think it's a huge leap to say any food allergy would work similarly.
And I can't help but wonder if this is what plays a part in my kid's anxiety issues. Is it related to trichotillomania? Or the anxiety driven tantrums?
I don't know. But I can't change the way our family's dietary restrictions work without hurting us. So I can only hope that we can continue to reassure, that the interventions we've chosen are helpful, and that as a society we become more supportive of food restrictions for any reason.
Why would kids with dietary restrictions be more at risk for emotional problems? To my way of thinking it's understandable when they are required to go to school, but school personnel and their peers don't always 'get' allergies. When other parents are busy fighting for their children's right to eat peanut butter, the food allergy kid is hearing "you're ruining things for everyone". When pizza is served to 19 out of 20 kids and the food allergy child gets to grab their own personal lunch from their backpack, they get the message that they aren't as special as the rest of the class. They have to put up a wall to remind themselves to say no, to be polite, to be different.
I don't know what the answer is. But awareness helps. And hopefully therapists will learn a bit about food allergy; and the difference between medically restricted diets and eating disorders.
I don't think it's a huge leap to say any food allergy would work similarly.
And I can't help but wonder if this is what plays a part in my kid's anxiety issues. Is it related to trichotillomania? Or the anxiety driven tantrums?
I don't know. But I can't change the way our family's dietary restrictions work without hurting us. So I can only hope that we can continue to reassure, that the interventions we've chosen are helpful, and that as a society we become more supportive of food restrictions for any reason.
Why would kids with dietary restrictions be more at risk for emotional problems? To my way of thinking it's understandable when they are required to go to school, but school personnel and their peers don't always 'get' allergies. When other parents are busy fighting for their children's right to eat peanut butter, the food allergy kid is hearing "you're ruining things for everyone". When pizza is served to 19 out of 20 kids and the food allergy child gets to grab their own personal lunch from their backpack, they get the message that they aren't as special as the rest of the class. They have to put up a wall to remind themselves to say no, to be polite, to be different.
I don't know what the answer is. But awareness helps. And hopefully therapists will learn a bit about food allergy; and the difference between medically restricted diets and eating disorders.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
A Challenge Awaits
My husband has asked for help. He wants to lose weight, and he craves sugar as if suddenly exposed to it after years of being deprived.
Bumblebee has asked for help liking vegetables. She took recent nutrition curriculum, along with a short lecture from her doctor, very seriously.
And I'm just sick of being sick. I reckon I'm on the mend, but there are a few tests still pending (expensive tests that need to be put off just a teensy, tiny bit)
So...the challenge is based on a gluten free candida cleanse. There will be salads at every evening meal, free access to veggies, a few non-gluten whole grains, and some new meals. Most meals will be corn free. The girls will be permitted dressings and moderate access to fruit (we really want Bumblebee to feel obligated to munch on veggies. We know she likes some...we just need to get her to eat more of them than the safe, comforting carbs she craves)
This weekend, dh is fasting. Next week's menus include such goodies as roasted chicken, mashed turnips, egg salad and omelets. Penguin is excited, she loves veggies and new things and that she won't be the only corny one not eating gluten. Bumblebee is accepting but trepidatious. She knows she can go for a long time without eating, but as we tell her...the point isn't NOT to eat. The point is to eat healthy foods.
I'm telling myself it will make up for missing Lent. And besides...it's much better than that liquid diet I just got off of. I may make up a bit more gelatin, which although not candida friendly is acceptable on some candida style diets and I'm not supposed to eat raw veggies, they make my pancreas bite back.
I'm not sure the week's challenge will go...but I thought I'd share. This way, we can't back out!
Bumblebee has asked for help liking vegetables. She took recent nutrition curriculum, along with a short lecture from her doctor, very seriously.
And I'm just sick of being sick. I reckon I'm on the mend, but there are a few tests still pending (expensive tests that need to be put off just a teensy, tiny bit)
So...the challenge is based on a gluten free candida cleanse. There will be salads at every evening meal, free access to veggies, a few non-gluten whole grains, and some new meals. Most meals will be corn free. The girls will be permitted dressings and moderate access to fruit (we really want Bumblebee to feel obligated to munch on veggies. We know she likes some...we just need to get her to eat more of them than the safe, comforting carbs she craves)
This weekend, dh is fasting. Next week's menus include such goodies as roasted chicken, mashed turnips, egg salad and omelets. Penguin is excited, she loves veggies and new things and that she won't be the only corny one not eating gluten. Bumblebee is accepting but trepidatious. She knows she can go for a long time without eating, but as we tell her...the point isn't NOT to eat. The point is to eat healthy foods.
I'm telling myself it will make up for missing Lent. And besides...it's much better than that liquid diet I just got off of. I may make up a bit more gelatin, which although not candida friendly is acceptable on some candida style diets and I'm not supposed to eat raw veggies, they make my pancreas bite back.
I'm not sure the week's challenge will go...but I thought I'd share. This way, we can't back out!
Monday, May 30, 2011
How to Cure a Headache
It happens to all of us sooner or later. That nagging, insistent pressure in your forehead, or just behind the eyes, or sometimes in the top of your head.
Maybe not a full blown migraine. Those are blessedly rare (whether sufferers can believe it or not). But even a run of the mill headache can be miserable.
If you have no food intolerances, your course of action is simple. Head to your cupboard, or check your purse. If you're out of pain killers, simply ask if anyone around you (preferably work or social friends) happens to have any Tylenol or Motrin. Choose from the assortment offered.
If you are sensitive to some ingredients, simply head to the corner store any hour of the day or night. They won't even check your ID. Choose from an entire display case full of extra strength, migraine, tension, PM, non-drowsy and many other variations of a formula for pain relief. Read ingredients, choose what's appropriate, and you'll be out of their in under $10. Even if you have a dye allergy, there are a few options available. The most obvious are the dye free liquids for the 6-12 year olds, but there are a couple adult configurations as well.
However, if you have a corn allergy, things get sticky. If you've run out of your supply of safe meds, or it's your first headache since starting this journey, you need to start at the beginning. Contact your medical doctor. Weird, I know. But it's the vital first step in the process of obtaining the simple, Over the Counter variety of pain relief the rest of America pops daily without inhibition. You need to obtain a prescription that reads (your choice of pain killer, acetaminophen or ibuprofen) NO CORN DERIVATIVES. Then you need to contact your local compounding pharmacy. Or one that will work mail order with you, suck as Francks. Ascertain that they are capable of obtaining the pure, unadulterated drug of your choice. (There are a few compounding pharmacies that start with the ready made pills and just adapt them. You want to avoid these pharmacies.) Ensure that they understand what corn free entails (and that they believe microcrystalline cellulose can be derived from corn rather than always from trees) Then drop off or fax in your prescription.
In a few days to a week, you should be able to pick up safe pain killers. The exact same dosage and active ingredient as the ones available at any drug store or supermarket, for only a few times the cost.
It doesn't seem fair sometimes. To keep an eye on the expiration date, and budget for a $100 bottle of something that so many can purchase for a 10th of the price. To think and plan in advance, second guessing flu season and headaches and menstrual woes. But, then I take one.
Fortunately, the trade off of having meds that will kill off a headache at it's start is priceless.
(And companies...if you stumble on this...we'd love more 'pure' options. No dye. No gluten, lactose, or corn. Including microcrystalline cellulose. We don't mind the less polished looking capsules, or paying a little extra for something with a shorter shelf life and fewer ingredients. And although we may be in the minority right now, at least you won't have to compete for our business, at least at first.)
Maybe not a full blown migraine. Those are blessedly rare (whether sufferers can believe it or not). But even a run of the mill headache can be miserable.
If you have no food intolerances, your course of action is simple. Head to your cupboard, or check your purse. If you're out of pain killers, simply ask if anyone around you (preferably work or social friends) happens to have any Tylenol or Motrin. Choose from the assortment offered.
If you are sensitive to some ingredients, simply head to the corner store any hour of the day or night. They won't even check your ID. Choose from an entire display case full of extra strength, migraine, tension, PM, non-drowsy and many other variations of a formula for pain relief. Read ingredients, choose what's appropriate, and you'll be out of their in under $10. Even if you have a dye allergy, there are a few options available. The most obvious are the dye free liquids for the 6-12 year olds, but there are a couple adult configurations as well.
However, if you have a corn allergy, things get sticky. If you've run out of your supply of safe meds, or it's your first headache since starting this journey, you need to start at the beginning. Contact your medical doctor. Weird, I know. But it's the vital first step in the process of obtaining the simple, Over the Counter variety of pain relief the rest of America pops daily without inhibition. You need to obtain a prescription that reads (your choice of pain killer, acetaminophen or ibuprofen) NO CORN DERIVATIVES. Then you need to contact your local compounding pharmacy. Or one that will work mail order with you, suck as Francks. Ascertain that they are capable of obtaining the pure, unadulterated drug of your choice. (There are a few compounding pharmacies that start with the ready made pills and just adapt them. You want to avoid these pharmacies.) Ensure that they understand what corn free entails (and that they believe microcrystalline cellulose can be derived from corn rather than always from trees) Then drop off or fax in your prescription.
In a few days to a week, you should be able to pick up safe pain killers. The exact same dosage and active ingredient as the ones available at any drug store or supermarket, for only a few times the cost.
It doesn't seem fair sometimes. To keep an eye on the expiration date, and budget for a $100 bottle of something that so many can purchase for a 10th of the price. To think and plan in advance, second guessing flu season and headaches and menstrual woes. But, then I take one.
Fortunately, the trade off of having meds that will kill off a headache at it's start is priceless.
(And companies...if you stumble on this...we'd love more 'pure' options. No dye. No gluten, lactose, or corn. Including microcrystalline cellulose. We don't mind the less polished looking capsules, or paying a little extra for something with a shorter shelf life and fewer ingredients. And although we may be in the minority right now, at least you won't have to compete for our business, at least at first.)
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Is it safe to go allergen free?
There's a new slew of "all in your head" diagnosis coming out. First up, doctors have supposedly identified an eating disorder known as orthorexia. Essentially, sufferers believe that certain foods are pure evil and begin to restrict their diet to the point that it is unhealthy and dangerous.
Next up is a spin-off of anorexia. People with eating disorders begin to blame gluten or other food allergies as the reason that they can't eat what is put before them, or offered at parties, or why they aren't eating at social functions.
"Whether confirmed as celiac disease through blood tests or self-diagnosed as intolerance...the condition requires treatment by way of a highly restrictive diet. ... it also requires monitoring trace elements of protein present in foods or its preparation becomes necessary lest upset stomachs, painful GI tracts or other debilitating symptoms strike." (emphasis mine)
In the article I site above, this paragraph disturbs me even more than this upsetting practice. Because it indicates that even if one has a documented, medically rational reason for complete and total avoidance...the worst that can happen is a stomach ache (the word debilitating is in there, but I doubt most people really comprehend how debilitating physical GI symptoms can feel) The truth is that with the (albeit relatively rare) true IgE food allergies, which are NOT limited to the top 8, even a small crumb can cause anaphylaxis. If a peanut falls on the salad, and the cook immediately fishes it out and sends the salad out to a nut allergic individual, their throat can swell shut before the rest of the party is done commenting on how delicious the first course looks.
If someone with celiac accepts a plate with toast on it, and simply removes the toast and brushes off the crumbs...not only will they suffer from debilitating stomach issues for a few days, their intestines will sustain physical damage that can be viewed and verified by endoscopy. This damage leads to malnutrition, along with a host of other related problems and, worst case scenario, even cancer.
I don't doubt that there are some people who are afraid of food for unhealthy reasons. Nor do I doubt that there are people with unhealthy obsessions about food, or avoiding too many foods. But is the best way to address that fear to label restrictive eating as a psychiatric disorder? Or is it to do more research?
I firmly believe that most people seeking a restrictive diet are motivated by physical symptoms. Maybe they have an intolerance or allergy. Maybe their bodies are just fed up with soda and fried foods. Maybe they just need a little help balancing nutrition. Regardless, identifying the motivation should be the first step. And then rule out causes.
And if an individual is adament about avoiding foods, then it seems likely that they may not need to reintroduce those foods. Instead, therapy or medical support should focus on identifying what one *can* eat. And instituting a balanced diet. So many people these days do not know how to cook, or find vegetables...or what to do with them when they do, that if they decide to give up gluten and nightshades they feel like they're stuck with white rice and carrots. There are a host of little known veggies out there...and others that are just scary looking.
Maybe the orthorexic would be more adventurous if they learned how to prepare and eat an artichoke, a salad, their own dressing or sauces. Those with anorexia and other eating disorders obviously do need counseling toward reaching a healthy body image. But it might be easier if any digestive problems (like bloating, which can make a teenager feel inexplicably "fat") were addressed at the same time.
At any rate, when someone has a valid reason for total avoidance, their choices need to be respected. And they will be less likely to obsess over their food choices if they weren't concerned with mental health labels. At least in the long run. It seems reasonable and healthy to me for someone newly diagnosed to spend a little time obsessing about food, since they quite likely have been told to drastically change their way of looking at food.
As someone with a unique allergy, I don't want to be blown off and made sick or worse because of a 'trend' in 'it's all in your head' diagnoses. As the mother of a food allergy sufferer, I don't want her labeled as eating disordered just because a few of her peers use the word 'allergy' inappropriately. I see her eat a wide variety of fruits, veggies, carbs and protein every day. What we don't eat doesn't matter nearly as much as what we DO eat. And I sincerely hope the medical practitioners diagnosing these conditions, as well as the laymen labeling them, acknowledge the difference.
Next up is a spin-off of anorexia. People with eating disorders begin to blame gluten or other food allergies as the reason that they can't eat what is put before them, or offered at parties, or why they aren't eating at social functions.
"Whether confirmed as celiac disease through blood tests or self-diagnosed as intolerance...the condition requires treatment by way of a highly restrictive diet. ... it also requires monitoring trace elements of protein present in foods or its preparation becomes necessary lest upset stomachs, painful GI tracts or other debilitating symptoms strike." (emphasis mine)
In the article I site above, this paragraph disturbs me even more than this upsetting practice. Because it indicates that even if one has a documented, medically rational reason for complete and total avoidance...the worst that can happen is a stomach ache (the word debilitating is in there, but I doubt most people really comprehend how debilitating physical GI symptoms can feel) The truth is that with the (albeit relatively rare) true IgE food allergies, which are NOT limited to the top 8, even a small crumb can cause anaphylaxis. If a peanut falls on the salad, and the cook immediately fishes it out and sends the salad out to a nut allergic individual, their throat can swell shut before the rest of the party is done commenting on how delicious the first course looks.
If someone with celiac accepts a plate with toast on it, and simply removes the toast and brushes off the crumbs...not only will they suffer from debilitating stomach issues for a few days, their intestines will sustain physical damage that can be viewed and verified by endoscopy. This damage leads to malnutrition, along with a host of other related problems and, worst case scenario, even cancer.
I don't doubt that there are some people who are afraid of food for unhealthy reasons. Nor do I doubt that there are people with unhealthy obsessions about food, or avoiding too many foods. But is the best way to address that fear to label restrictive eating as a psychiatric disorder? Or is it to do more research?
I firmly believe that most people seeking a restrictive diet are motivated by physical symptoms. Maybe they have an intolerance or allergy. Maybe their bodies are just fed up with soda and fried foods. Maybe they just need a little help balancing nutrition. Regardless, identifying the motivation should be the first step. And then rule out causes.
And if an individual is adament about avoiding foods, then it seems likely that they may not need to reintroduce those foods. Instead, therapy or medical support should focus on identifying what one *can* eat. And instituting a balanced diet. So many people these days do not know how to cook, or find vegetables...or what to do with them when they do, that if they decide to give up gluten and nightshades they feel like they're stuck with white rice and carrots. There are a host of little known veggies out there...and others that are just scary looking.
Maybe the orthorexic would be more adventurous if they learned how to prepare and eat an artichoke, a salad, their own dressing or sauces. Those with anorexia and other eating disorders obviously do need counseling toward reaching a healthy body image. But it might be easier if any digestive problems (like bloating, which can make a teenager feel inexplicably "fat") were addressed at the same time.
At any rate, when someone has a valid reason for total avoidance, their choices need to be respected. And they will be less likely to obsess over their food choices if they weren't concerned with mental health labels. At least in the long run. It seems reasonable and healthy to me for someone newly diagnosed to spend a little time obsessing about food, since they quite likely have been told to drastically change their way of looking at food.
As someone with a unique allergy, I don't want to be blown off and made sick or worse because of a 'trend' in 'it's all in your head' diagnoses. As the mother of a food allergy sufferer, I don't want her labeled as eating disordered just because a few of her peers use the word 'allergy' inappropriately. I see her eat a wide variety of fruits, veggies, carbs and protein every day. What we don't eat doesn't matter nearly as much as what we DO eat. And I sincerely hope the medical practitioners diagnosing these conditions, as well as the laymen labeling them, acknowledge the difference.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Sick food
Sometimes, even if you are eating safe food, stomachs get upset. And that can be a challenge. It's tough if you're caregiver to a food allergic child, it's even tougher when you're the one with allergies, and you're the one with an upset stomach. (My husband is all for cooking...but he's heavy handed on the spices and can't quite figure out the difference between "tastes good" and "gentle on the digestion")
The BRAT diet is easy to follow. Bananas (Green University from WF if you have a corn allergy), Rice (Lundbergh or unenriched from Thailand if you have a corn allergy), Applesauce (All natural, no citric or ascorbic acid...with a corn allergy, I use Trader Joe's), and Toast. Since I'm gluten free, I follow a "BRA" diet.
But sometimes, you want something even lighter. Recently, my doctor suggested I go on a liquid diet for a few days. Liquid.
I'm sire she was thinking Ensure, and protein drinks, and soup and milkshakes or smoothies.
I looked in my cupboard and sighed.
What did I come up with? Well, it wasn't totally liquid. We made a huge batch of broth. I mashed some of the carrots. I know, I know, there's no nutrition left in them. But I was hungry. And they filled me up and set gently. I had warmed applejuice with cinnamon, fork mashed sweet potatoes and parsnips with broth, and when I was starving...a scramblled egg (It's soft, not fibrous, which seemed to be what the dr wanted to avoid). I also made gelatin.
In fact, the first thing I thought of was gelatin. Good old J-E-L-L-O, as the commercial used to sing. Of course, the brand name and store bramd flavored gunk is full of corn derivatives and artificial gunk that I really don't want in my, or my kids, bodies. So, I used Knox.
Honestly, I don't care much for the thick Knox Block recipe that's on the back of the box. I wanted something that wiggles and jiggles and tasted...Jello-like.
Here's what I came up with:
2 cups applejuice, warmed on the stove.
While it warmed, I dumped a cup of cold water into a small casserole/baking dish and sprinkled 1 packet of Knox gelatin into it.
When the apple juice was done simmering, I whisked it into the water/gelatin mixture.
Then I chilled everything.
And enjoyed it.
No, I didn't cut it up into cute little squares. I did it the way my mom used to do it, scooped it out into my bowl. Oddly, it tasted better with just a sprinkle of salt (I think my electrolytes were off balanced, since I was also chugging plain water to eradicate a kidney infection) My husband's opinion? It tastes like sick food.
Which is exactly what you crave when you're sick.
And my version included no additional sweeteners, no artificial colors or flavors, or anything else undesirable.
The BRAT diet is easy to follow. Bananas (Green University from WF if you have a corn allergy), Rice (Lundbergh or unenriched from Thailand if you have a corn allergy), Applesauce (All natural, no citric or ascorbic acid...with a corn allergy, I use Trader Joe's), and Toast. Since I'm gluten free, I follow a "BRA" diet.
But sometimes, you want something even lighter. Recently, my doctor suggested I go on a liquid diet for a few days. Liquid.
I'm sire she was thinking Ensure, and protein drinks, and soup and milkshakes or smoothies.
I looked in my cupboard and sighed.
What did I come up with? Well, it wasn't totally liquid. We made a huge batch of broth. I mashed some of the carrots. I know, I know, there's no nutrition left in them. But I was hungry. And they filled me up and set gently. I had warmed applejuice with cinnamon, fork mashed sweet potatoes and parsnips with broth, and when I was starving...a scramblled egg (It's soft, not fibrous, which seemed to be what the dr wanted to avoid). I also made gelatin.
In fact, the first thing I thought of was gelatin. Good old J-E-L-L-O, as the commercial used to sing. Of course, the brand name and store bramd flavored gunk is full of corn derivatives and artificial gunk that I really don't want in my, or my kids, bodies. So, I used Knox.
Honestly, I don't care much for the thick Knox Block recipe that's on the back of the box. I wanted something that wiggles and jiggles and tasted...Jello-like.
Here's what I came up with:
2 cups applejuice, warmed on the stove.
While it warmed, I dumped a cup of cold water into a small casserole/baking dish and sprinkled 1 packet of Knox gelatin into it.
When the apple juice was done simmering, I whisked it into the water/gelatin mixture.
Then I chilled everything.
And enjoyed it.
No, I didn't cut it up into cute little squares. I did it the way my mom used to do it, scooped it out into my bowl. Oddly, it tasted better with just a sprinkle of salt (I think my electrolytes were off balanced, since I was also chugging plain water to eradicate a kidney infection) My husband's opinion? It tastes like sick food.
Which is exactly what you crave when you're sick.
And my version included no additional sweeteners, no artificial colors or flavors, or anything else undesirable.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Does cutting out corn hurt?
A lot of people notice that when they cut out corn, they feel better overall...and begin having much more severe reactions to things that only used to bother them a little. It makes it look like cutting out the corn has hurt them in some way.
Here's the thing. If you're allergic to corn (or gluten) then you've been ingesting something you're intolerant to at almost every meal for most of your life. Of course, your intolerance or allergy has probably developed over time...but throughout that time period of intolerance, your body has essentially been a battle zone.
So imagine a battle field. Things suddenly calm down, the enemy just...vanishes. Are your soldiers going to take a nap? Of course not! They're going to band together, and go on high alert, watching for intruders or any sign of renegade activity.
And, seeing as there's very little to attack when you've cut the corn out of your diet, there are a lot more 'soldiers' available to attack any perceived threats.
When your body attacks a perceived threat, you feel rotten. It's a defense mechanism, digestive issues are your body's way of flushing a toxin from your system. Rashes sweat a toxin through your skin. Swelling increases liquid to make it easier to flush that toxin through. Except, of course, that food isn't really toxic.
Eventually, your body will calm down. It'll stop attacking those invaders. The SCD recommends a broth diet to jump start your allergy free dieting because it gives your digestive tract and immune system a chance to calm down and adjust. I think that's a great (though not always plausible) plan.
At any rate, if you are diagnosed with an allergy or intolerance and start noticing worsening reactions, don't despair. Take it easy, eat lightly, try to rotate foods so that you won't inadvertently create a new intolerance, and eventually your body will relax and (hopefully) slip into "normal" mode. A newer, healthier...BETTER normal for you! :-)
Here's the thing. If you're allergic to corn (or gluten) then you've been ingesting something you're intolerant to at almost every meal for most of your life. Of course, your intolerance or allergy has probably developed over time...but throughout that time period of intolerance, your body has essentially been a battle zone.
So imagine a battle field. Things suddenly calm down, the enemy just...vanishes. Are your soldiers going to take a nap? Of course not! They're going to band together, and go on high alert, watching for intruders or any sign of renegade activity.
And, seeing as there's very little to attack when you've cut the corn out of your diet, there are a lot more 'soldiers' available to attack any perceived threats.
When your body attacks a perceived threat, you feel rotten. It's a defense mechanism, digestive issues are your body's way of flushing a toxin from your system. Rashes sweat a toxin through your skin. Swelling increases liquid to make it easier to flush that toxin through. Except, of course, that food isn't really toxic.
Eventually, your body will calm down. It'll stop attacking those invaders. The SCD recommends a broth diet to jump start your allergy free dieting because it gives your digestive tract and immune system a chance to calm down and adjust. I think that's a great (though not always plausible) plan.
At any rate, if you are diagnosed with an allergy or intolerance and start noticing worsening reactions, don't despair. Take it easy, eat lightly, try to rotate foods so that you won't inadvertently create a new intolerance, and eventually your body will relax and (hopefully) slip into "normal" mode. A newer, healthier...BETTER normal for you! :-)
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Real life is like Webkinz
Last night, Penguin and I used the online grade book to look up her grades. She told me how much she hates grades, because they don't help anything. They just feel like a punishment, when they aren't good, and normal when they are.
So we looked at the percentages. And what happened when a paper didn't get turned in (or at least recorded yet) And then I told her that all I care about is that she does her best work.
It wasn't reassuring for her. So I tried a different tact. When you see that you have an A+ in Social studies, but you only have a B- in English, it means when you have extra credit from both classes, to do the extra credit in English first. And it means you might be in a hurry to do homework...but you need to take a little more time with English, to double check spelling and stuff.
Suddenly a light bulb went on.
"It's just like webkinz world!"
Webkinz World? (For those who don't know, it's an online virtual pet community, accessed by an "adoption" code you obtain by purchasing a plush Webkinz toy. it's full of games and several once a day activities.)
"Yep, webkinz. Like when I'm doing the acadamy and having trouble in one class, I keep working on it so I can level it up."
And she went on in more detail about how this improves her pet's performance.
But I thought it worthy of blogging.
Real life is like webkinz. You need to work on the areas you're weaker in, so that you get caught up to your strong areas. And then it's all around more fun.
Who says we don't learn anything from computer games?
So we looked at the percentages. And what happened when a paper didn't get turned in (or at least recorded yet) And then I told her that all I care about is that she does her best work.
It wasn't reassuring for her. So I tried a different tact. When you see that you have an A+ in Social studies, but you only have a B- in English, it means when you have extra credit from both classes, to do the extra credit in English first. And it means you might be in a hurry to do homework...but you need to take a little more time with English, to double check spelling and stuff.
Suddenly a light bulb went on.
"It's just like webkinz world!"
Webkinz World? (For those who don't know, it's an online virtual pet community, accessed by an "adoption" code you obtain by purchasing a plush Webkinz toy. it's full of games and several once a day activities.)
"Yep, webkinz. Like when I'm doing the acadamy and having trouble in one class, I keep working on it so I can level it up."
And she went on in more detail about how this improves her pet's performance.
But I thought it worthy of blogging.
Real life is like webkinz. You need to work on the areas you're weaker in, so that you get caught up to your strong areas. And then it's all around more fun.
Who says we don't learn anything from computer games?
Thursday, May 05, 2011
Potluck Power
I always say the hardest part of food allergies is the social aspect. It's downright uncomfortable to go into a situation where food will be the center of activities...and then refuse to partake.
Potlucks can be particularly difficult because everyone wants you to sample their wares. And if you have certain food intolerances, especially mild ones that consist of the top 8 or easily recognizable items, then you might be able to partake. In fact, if your intolerances are mild...you might not even be reading this blog, because you probably don't care about potlucks. But, if you have severe reactions...or you react to something particularly difficult to avoid (corn or gluten or dairy), things get trickier. Avoidance really is the easiest option. Of course, being human, we all want to be honest. And we want to enjoy ourselves. And we want to fit in.
So, the best policy seems to be multifold. Eat first, bring safe snacks, bring a safe dish that will get rave reviews (so you can busily field compliments rather than questions about the lack of variety on your own plate), and wander frequently. Come late, unless you feel confident enough to sample the other wares...in which case you want to be early and first in line to avoid cross contamination. And have some easy catch phrases that shield you from the spotlight.
So here are a few sample phrases to get you through the most trying of spotlight events...the family (or work) potluck.
"Oh, everything looks delicious, I don't know where to start!"
"I'll grab a plate in a minute, first I want to catch up with so and so."
"I couldn't eat another bite, but thank you, everything is lovely!"
And when someone insists that you sample a signature dish, you can distract them by calling it divine and asking them for the recipe. If they insist on a sample, excuse yourself for a moment.
When it comes to buffet style eating, sometimes moving around frequently is your best combat against questions. Everyone will think you've eaten, that your empty plate was once full. They won't necessarily note that the only thing ever on it was the dish you, yourself, contributed. Or the crackers you surreptitiously retrieve from your purse. Be vague, but sincere.
Often, you can get away without repeated explanations. Just be prepared to distract people. If they won't let the food go, compliment their jewelry. Or some knick knack on the shelf. Or worst case scenario, turn your napkin into a fan and exclaim that it's getting warm.
Everyone in the vicinity will begin discussing the weather, it's changing patterns, and whether or not they believe in global warming.
It may not be stimulating dinner conversation, but it will get the spotlight off of you!
Potlucks can be particularly difficult because everyone wants you to sample their wares. And if you have certain food intolerances, especially mild ones that consist of the top 8 or easily recognizable items, then you might be able to partake. In fact, if your intolerances are mild...you might not even be reading this blog, because you probably don't care about potlucks. But, if you have severe reactions...or you react to something particularly difficult to avoid (corn or gluten or dairy), things get trickier. Avoidance really is the easiest option. Of course, being human, we all want to be honest. And we want to enjoy ourselves. And we want to fit in.
So, the best policy seems to be multifold. Eat first, bring safe snacks, bring a safe dish that will get rave reviews (so you can busily field compliments rather than questions about the lack of variety on your own plate), and wander frequently. Come late, unless you feel confident enough to sample the other wares...in which case you want to be early and first in line to avoid cross contamination. And have some easy catch phrases that shield you from the spotlight.
So here are a few sample phrases to get you through the most trying of spotlight events...the family (or work) potluck.
"Oh, everything looks delicious, I don't know where to start!"
"I'll grab a plate in a minute, first I want to catch up with so and so."
"I couldn't eat another bite, but thank you, everything is lovely!"
And when someone insists that you sample a signature dish, you can distract them by calling it divine and asking them for the recipe. If they insist on a sample, excuse yourself for a moment.
When it comes to buffet style eating, sometimes moving around frequently is your best combat against questions. Everyone will think you've eaten, that your empty plate was once full. They won't necessarily note that the only thing ever on it was the dish you, yourself, contributed. Or the crackers you surreptitiously retrieve from your purse. Be vague, but sincere.
Often, you can get away without repeated explanations. Just be prepared to distract people. If they won't let the food go, compliment their jewelry. Or some knick knack on the shelf. Or worst case scenario, turn your napkin into a fan and exclaim that it's getting warm.
Everyone in the vicinity will begin discussing the weather, it's changing patterns, and whether or not they believe in global warming.
It may not be stimulating dinner conversation, but it will get the spotlight off of you!
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Cook Naked
This was the theme of a post in honor of this article, which sheds a little more light and awareness on food sensitivities. Although I must say, the title and the article weren't as developed as I expected. The concept rings true.
I find with food allergies, my goal is simplicity. Simple flavors. Texture. Few ingredients. I don't have a lot to work with, and the more we use at one time, the more risk there seems to be.
Spices, the salt of life, are still limited here. After all, the best way to stop them from clumping is to add corn starch. And some of them, of their own accord, bite back.
Sauces...a common and easy way to spice up just about anything old and boring are a powerhouse of hidden gluten, corn, preservatives and artificial colors. Not to mention other possible allergens.
New ingredients, new flavors, bring new fears. Anything can cause a reaction and when you have confirmed food intolerance, your food fears are founded in experience and have little to nothing to do with taste buds.
So for us, when I think of cooking with food allergies, "cook naked" makes perfect sense. It's not about avoiding specific ingredients, because only a person who is allergic to an ingredient truly understands their own level of tolerance. Some people with Celiac Disease only eat certified gluten free products. Others simply read the label.
For me, "cooking naked" means cooking simply, transparently. Enjoying the full flavor of foods, without having to disguise them. It's peas, simmered and dressed with a bit of oil (or butter...at the table) and salt. It's sweet potatoes, roasted in their own juices and a touch of approved oil. It's brown rice parboiled in water or homemade broth. And broth that is made with just carrots, celery and onions...no boillion cubes or MSG or autolyzed yeast extract. It's what you see is what you get.
Cooking naked is all about letting food speak for itself. Several months ago, a child was spending an afternoon with Bumblebee and they clamored for a snack. I offered celery or apples. The child looked at the celery and said "That looks like a PLANT!" To which I agreed it did...it still had the leaves at the end. Her eyes got wide before she said "My mom will not be happy if I come home and say I ate a plant!"
Penguin felt immensely sorry for the child as soon as the statement was spoken, and has mentioned the incident several times since. I think shame (of our abnormal diet) and horror that the child didn't realize that vegetables and plants are one and the same are equally disturbing to her.
And that, perhaps, to me is the heart of cooking naked. As much as I want Bumblebee and Penguin to fit in...I want them to know what real food is and where it comes from. And so, we will continue to have celery in it's natural state, attempt to grow a few fruits and veggies in our yard, eat undressed sweet potatoes and place more value on the nutritional value of food than on it's looks.
Maybe, if we didn't have food allergies, we wouldn't have thought so much about what we eat, and what's in what we eat. But that just means that food allergies has done us a favor by making us more aware, not just of the content of our food supply, but of the nutritional content (and lack thereof). It's made us want to know what's in our food, so we can appreciate it more.
Besides, the simpler our meals, the less time we have to spend preparing them.
I find with food allergies, my goal is simplicity. Simple flavors. Texture. Few ingredients. I don't have a lot to work with, and the more we use at one time, the more risk there seems to be.
Spices, the salt of life, are still limited here. After all, the best way to stop them from clumping is to add corn starch. And some of them, of their own accord, bite back.
Sauces...a common and easy way to spice up just about anything old and boring are a powerhouse of hidden gluten, corn, preservatives and artificial colors. Not to mention other possible allergens.
New ingredients, new flavors, bring new fears. Anything can cause a reaction and when you have confirmed food intolerance, your food fears are founded in experience and have little to nothing to do with taste buds.
So for us, when I think of cooking with food allergies, "cook naked" makes perfect sense. It's not about avoiding specific ingredients, because only a person who is allergic to an ingredient truly understands their own level of tolerance. Some people with Celiac Disease only eat certified gluten free products. Others simply read the label.
For me, "cooking naked" means cooking simply, transparently. Enjoying the full flavor of foods, without having to disguise them. It's peas, simmered and dressed with a bit of oil (or butter...at the table) and salt. It's sweet potatoes, roasted in their own juices and a touch of approved oil. It's brown rice parboiled in water or homemade broth. And broth that is made with just carrots, celery and onions...no boillion cubes or MSG or autolyzed yeast extract. It's what you see is what you get.
Cooking naked is all about letting food speak for itself. Several months ago, a child was spending an afternoon with Bumblebee and they clamored for a snack. I offered celery or apples. The child looked at the celery and said "That looks like a PLANT!" To which I agreed it did...it still had the leaves at the end. Her eyes got wide before she said "My mom will not be happy if I come home and say I ate a plant!"
Penguin felt immensely sorry for the child as soon as the statement was spoken, and has mentioned the incident several times since. I think shame (of our abnormal diet) and horror that the child didn't realize that vegetables and plants are one and the same are equally disturbing to her.
And that, perhaps, to me is the heart of cooking naked. As much as I want Bumblebee and Penguin to fit in...I want them to know what real food is and where it comes from. And so, we will continue to have celery in it's natural state, attempt to grow a few fruits and veggies in our yard, eat undressed sweet potatoes and place more value on the nutritional value of food than on it's looks.
Maybe, if we didn't have food allergies, we wouldn't have thought so much about what we eat, and what's in what we eat. But that just means that food allergies has done us a favor by making us more aware, not just of the content of our food supply, but of the nutritional content (and lack thereof). It's made us want to know what's in our food, so we can appreciate it more.
Besides, the simpler our meals, the less time we have to spend preparing them.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Earth Day
Earth day 2011 just passed, and in honor of the event I'm reading "The WorldWithout Us".
Okay, maybe not so much in honor of the event. More like, because I saw it on the shelf and was interested. At any rate, I'm deeply disturbed by the section on plastics and plastic polymers, and the fact that even on a microscopic level, they don't actually break down, they simply get smaller. And when ingested, they cause damage.
There is a plastic trash island in the middle of the pacific the size of a small island. And bits and pieces of plastic bags, bottle caps and cotton swab sticks wash up on estuaries all over.
"Plastic is evil." Bumblebee says.
"People are evil," Penguin corrects.
"People make mistakes out of ignorance," I tell them. No one meant for plastic to be 'evil' or even thought about the consequences of something that lasts forever. Even biodegradable plastic lasts for over a year in the ocean. And it only biodegrades into...smaller plastic particles.
"What can we do?" they both asked. And then we thought about it. Right now, we haven't used a plastic bag at the grocery store in almost 3 years. Our canvas bags are beginning to shrink, but they're still pretty sturdy. The last time I bought baggies was about the same time. Although, we do use them...it was a costco sized box I last purchased. We are more likely to use plastic containers. Still plastic, still considered disposable...but much sturdier and we wash them regularly. And they're easier to recycle when they finally crack. Our recycling bin is still often overflowing with appropriate materials, although we really should cut down on packaging.
I told them I thought we were doing pretty well. Of course, there's always room for improvement so we'll all keep our eyes open for environmentally sustainable (not corn) ideas.
We'd like to make Earth Day every day, or at least once a week. :-)
Okay, maybe not so much in honor of the event. More like, because I saw it on the shelf and was interested. At any rate, I'm deeply disturbed by the section on plastics and plastic polymers, and the fact that even on a microscopic level, they don't actually break down, they simply get smaller. And when ingested, they cause damage.
There is a plastic trash island in the middle of the pacific the size of a small island. And bits and pieces of plastic bags, bottle caps and cotton swab sticks wash up on estuaries all over.
"Plastic is evil." Bumblebee says.
"People are evil," Penguin corrects.
"People make mistakes out of ignorance," I tell them. No one meant for plastic to be 'evil' or even thought about the consequences of something that lasts forever. Even biodegradable plastic lasts for over a year in the ocean. And it only biodegrades into...smaller plastic particles.
"What can we do?" they both asked. And then we thought about it. Right now, we haven't used a plastic bag at the grocery store in almost 3 years. Our canvas bags are beginning to shrink, but they're still pretty sturdy. The last time I bought baggies was about the same time. Although, we do use them...it was a costco sized box I last purchased. We are more likely to use plastic containers. Still plastic, still considered disposable...but much sturdier and we wash them regularly. And they're easier to recycle when they finally crack. Our recycling bin is still often overflowing with appropriate materials, although we really should cut down on packaging.
I told them I thought we were doing pretty well. Of course, there's always room for improvement so we'll all keep our eyes open for environmentally sustainable (not corn) ideas.
We'd like to make Earth Day every day, or at least once a week. :-)
Friday, April 22, 2011
Easter Greetings
Most people don't think of Easter as a very corn filled holiday. It's...more...carrots. And maybe celery. And...jellybeans.
Actually, for most people with food allergies, Easter celebrations can be pretty safe.
But, again, corn rears it's ugly head. Ear? Whatever.
Jelly beans may generally be free of the top 8; but their rainbow appeal generally comes from a rainbow of artificial food colorings. These are linked with behavior issues, and possibly further health problems, in some individuals. There are naturally colored jelly beans from Surf Sweets, Green Beans, and even Jelly Belly superfruits.
Unfortunately, the above are either made with corn syrup, or the corn containing citric acid.
Gummy candy is another perrenial favorite...Gummy bears fit just perfectly into the plastic colored eggs. (And of course an egg laying bunny is going to hatch red and yellow bears, right?) Surf Sweet candies, Yummy Earth candies, and Annie's Naturals all have delicious alternatives. (Containing corn)
Florida's Natural Nuggets taste good and fit well in the eggs...but again contain corn derivatives.
For a corn free candy, you might have to resort to St Claire's Hard candies. (Tasty, but not quite as seasonal)
And then there is the chocolate bunny. Nut warnings, dairy derivatives, even gluten show up in those mischievous iconic candies. Alternatives may be maple sugar shapes (I haven't seen a bunny, though), chocolates bought from a premier specialty facility like Premium Chocolatiers, or chocolate chips melted to fit various candy molds available in the market place.
The only real candy novelties safe for corn avoiders are the ones we make ourselves. But some have gotten creative with Erewhon rice cereal and homemade marshmallows to shape krisie treats, gelatin mold eggs, and shaped chocolates.
Of course...the best egg stuffers are non candy...Littlest Pet shop figurines, In My Pocket pets, and small vehicles will delight kids 3-7; as will mardi gras beads and other small party favors (these aren't great for the environment, though)
As an adult with the corn allergy (and parent to a dairy free, gluten free kid and 2 who avoid artificial colorings) I prefer to not worry about the sugary novelties.
Spice cake sounds good to me; and maybe if we have a few carrots I'll grate them in for corn free carrot cake. I'm still working on a white frosting recipe. Powdered sugar has not been easy to find, but I'm certain there is decent frosting to be had without it. (after all, people have been frosting cakes for generations...haven't they?)
The kids are looking forward to egg dyeing. Although every year I tell myself we'll find some nice, safe, all natural dyes...I got lazy (and cheap) and purchased a sponge paintng kit. We will dye 2 dozen eggs, of the cheapest brand I find, and Mr. Violets will bring what he wants to work. The rest will be a tragic waste of resources...but at least they'll serve a purpose in entertainment, art exploration, and decoration. And they'll decompose quickly, a nice Earth Day bonus.
Maybe we'll work in a short hike, or at least a trip to the park. After all...the whole point of Easter is to welcome spring back to our lives. And part of springtime is getting back outside. We'll also be attempting another garden. We've already fed a honeydew seedling to the snails in our yard, and (after putting down salt) are considering ttempting strawberry plants. They grow well and Bumblebee enjoys them. Maybe I'll even be able to handle a few despite the prevalence of seeds. (Or maybe I'll puree them and strain the seeds) At least if they're homegrown, I'll know if it was the strawberry or the 'industry standard' rinse that didn't get scrubbed off.
Actually, for most people with food allergies, Easter celebrations can be pretty safe.
But, again, corn rears it's ugly head. Ear? Whatever.
Jelly beans may generally be free of the top 8; but their rainbow appeal generally comes from a rainbow of artificial food colorings. These are linked with behavior issues, and possibly further health problems, in some individuals. There are naturally colored jelly beans from Surf Sweets, Green Beans, and even Jelly Belly superfruits.
Unfortunately, the above are either made with corn syrup, or the corn containing citric acid.
Gummy candy is another perrenial favorite...Gummy bears fit just perfectly into the plastic colored eggs. (And of course an egg laying bunny is going to hatch red and yellow bears, right?) Surf Sweet candies, Yummy Earth candies, and Annie's Naturals all have delicious alternatives. (Containing corn)
Florida's Natural Nuggets taste good and fit well in the eggs...but again contain corn derivatives.
For a corn free candy, you might have to resort to St Claire's Hard candies. (Tasty, but not quite as seasonal)
And then there is the chocolate bunny. Nut warnings, dairy derivatives, even gluten show up in those mischievous iconic candies. Alternatives may be maple sugar shapes (I haven't seen a bunny, though), chocolates bought from a premier specialty facility like Premium Chocolatiers, or chocolate chips melted to fit various candy molds available in the market place.
The only real candy novelties safe for corn avoiders are the ones we make ourselves. But some have gotten creative with Erewhon rice cereal and homemade marshmallows to shape krisie treats, gelatin mold eggs, and shaped chocolates.
Of course...the best egg stuffers are non candy...Littlest Pet shop figurines, In My Pocket pets, and small vehicles will delight kids 3-7; as will mardi gras beads and other small party favors (these aren't great for the environment, though)
As an adult with the corn allergy (and parent to a dairy free, gluten free kid and 2 who avoid artificial colorings) I prefer to not worry about the sugary novelties.
Spice cake sounds good to me; and maybe if we have a few carrots I'll grate them in for corn free carrot cake. I'm still working on a white frosting recipe. Powdered sugar has not been easy to find, but I'm certain there is decent frosting to be had without it. (after all, people have been frosting cakes for generations...haven't they?)
The kids are looking forward to egg dyeing. Although every year I tell myself we'll find some nice, safe, all natural dyes...I got lazy (and cheap) and purchased a sponge paintng kit. We will dye 2 dozen eggs, of the cheapest brand I find, and Mr. Violets will bring what he wants to work. The rest will be a tragic waste of resources...but at least they'll serve a purpose in entertainment, art exploration, and decoration. And they'll decompose quickly, a nice Earth Day bonus.
Maybe we'll work in a short hike, or at least a trip to the park. After all...the whole point of Easter is to welcome spring back to our lives. And part of springtime is getting back outside. We'll also be attempting another garden. We've already fed a honeydew seedling to the snails in our yard, and (after putting down salt) are considering ttempting strawberry plants. They grow well and Bumblebee enjoys them. Maybe I'll even be able to handle a few despite the prevalence of seeds. (Or maybe I'll puree them and strain the seeds) At least if they're homegrown, I'll know if it was the strawberry or the 'industry standard' rinse that didn't get scrubbed off.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Corn allergy Dramatics
The girls have the week off of school for Spring Break. Of course, I promised them a trip to the zoo as well as a few new parks.
Unfortunately...Mr Violets caught a nasty bug that nixed our plans early in the week. And then it rained. The girls and I rallied though, and were set to go today if all else failed. Even if it rained.
Until I came down with another UTI last night. Ugh.
I called the doctor first thing this morning. Talked to the nurse. They have a fairly painless system set up. If...If you don't have a corn allergy.
I need to say that they've made progress. It's just the frustration that I've already been through the learning process, I already know the next step...I already have the info they need but they won't take it from me until they realize that they need it. I'm trying to be patient and acknowledge that they have a learning curve as well. It just takes time.
Anyways, if all was normal with me, I would have had an oncall doctor call in a prescription for me and that would have been that.
But all is not normal.
So, at 11:40 my doctor called me to figure out why things weren't going according to plan. And I explained that the prescription needed to be called in to the compounding pharmacy. And offered the phone number, again. I don't think she took it that time either. She did offer to find the inactive ingredients for me and call back, which she did in about 10-15 minutes...assuring me that they had a safe medication waiting at the pharmacy but I should double check with the pharmacist.
So...I trotted down to the office, left a sample, and waited in line to pick up my rx. They were friendly...and explained that I needed to wait a few more minutes to talk to a pharmacist. I ran to relieve myself and waited some more.
The pharmacist was on the phone with the manufacturer, and she approached me with the information that the prescribed medication was not safe for me (dumb microcrystalline cellulose in everything!) and asked if there was an alternate med I'd taken before.
I explained, again, that in the past I've needed to have antibiotics compounded. The only ones I've taken that were safe pre-filled were -cillins. She looked pretty uncomfortable at that revelation, did not take my compounding pharmacist's phone number, and said that she will talk to the doctor but at this point in the day I probably won't get an antibiotic until at least monday which is an awfully long time to wait when you have a UTI!!!
So what did I want to do?
I weighed my options. Corn reaction...or wait for something safe.
I decided to keep flushing my kidneys with as much water as I can manage while waiting for them to accept my compounding pharmacy phone number.
It's 2:15 now.
I'm not feeling terribly hopeful.
But maybe next time, when I call between 9 and 10, they will take the info and TRUST me; and just skip to the end step of making the necessary phone calls.
How hard is it to call a compounding pharmacist and say "I need an antibiotic for a UTI with no corn derivatives in it. What do you have in stock?" It can't take much longer than spending the day playing phone tag. :-(
I'd rather be at the zoo.
Unfortunately...Mr Violets caught a nasty bug that nixed our plans early in the week. And then it rained. The girls and I rallied though, and were set to go today if all else failed. Even if it rained.
Until I came down with another UTI last night. Ugh.
I called the doctor first thing this morning. Talked to the nurse. They have a fairly painless system set up. If...If you don't have a corn allergy.
I need to say that they've made progress. It's just the frustration that I've already been through the learning process, I already know the next step...I already have the info they need but they won't take it from me until they realize that they need it. I'm trying to be patient and acknowledge that they have a learning curve as well. It just takes time.
Anyways, if all was normal with me, I would have had an oncall doctor call in a prescription for me and that would have been that.
But all is not normal.
So, at 11:40 my doctor called me to figure out why things weren't going according to plan. And I explained that the prescription needed to be called in to the compounding pharmacy. And offered the phone number, again. I don't think she took it that time either. She did offer to find the inactive ingredients for me and call back, which she did in about 10-15 minutes...assuring me that they had a safe medication waiting at the pharmacy but I should double check with the pharmacist.
So...I trotted down to the office, left a sample, and waited in line to pick up my rx. They were friendly...and explained that I needed to wait a few more minutes to talk to a pharmacist. I ran to relieve myself and waited some more.
The pharmacist was on the phone with the manufacturer, and she approached me with the information that the prescribed medication was not safe for me (dumb microcrystalline cellulose in everything!) and asked if there was an alternate med I'd taken before.
I explained, again, that in the past I've needed to have antibiotics compounded. The only ones I've taken that were safe pre-filled were -cillins. She looked pretty uncomfortable at that revelation, did not take my compounding pharmacist's phone number, and said that she will talk to the doctor but at this point in the day I probably won't get an antibiotic until at least monday which is an awfully long time to wait when you have a UTI!!!
So what did I want to do?
I weighed my options. Corn reaction...or wait for something safe.
I decided to keep flushing my kidneys with as much water as I can manage while waiting for them to accept my compounding pharmacy phone number.
It's 2:15 now.
I'm not feeling terribly hopeful.
But maybe next time, when I call between 9 and 10, they will take the info and TRUST me; and just skip to the end step of making the necessary phone calls.
How hard is it to call a compounding pharmacist and say "I need an antibiotic for a UTI with no corn derivatives in it. What do you have in stock?" It can't take much longer than spending the day playing phone tag. :-(
I'd rather be at the zoo.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Note to self: do not move to Chicago.
Or, if it's ever necessary, plan to homeschool.
No, it's not the academic values, or the teacher quality, or the test scores. It's nothing to do with the lovely folk who live there. My problem with Chicago?
Some schools have a mandatory "purchase lunch here" policy. Of course, there is the standard "medical conditions are exempt" caveat.
My questions: How must the medical conditions be documented? And what constitutes a worthy medical excuse? Diabetes, food allergies, Celiac Disease...migraines? IBS? Lactose intolerance? Kosher requirements? Vegetarian or vegan choices? Behavior issues? Autism?
If they require a simple doctor's note, they usually require it every single year. And sometimes a new one midyear when some policy or another changes. It sounds reasonable to get your medical professional to write out a note for you. But doctors seem to HATE this policy. They have better things to do than take a 15 minute appointment to write a note stating that a medical condition has not been outgrown and that the parents, not the school administrators who have never met your child, should decide what, exactly, can and can not pass your child's teeth.
And then there's the simple fact that some medical conditions, like IBS, don't require one specific diet. It's an ongoing balancing act...and one day's requirements may be completely counter to another day's. Control over diet is critical to the overall health of someone with severe IBS or chronic digestive issues...and I guarantee that by High School; digestive concerns are the last thing any child wants to discuss over lunch.
Which brings up my next concern. If bagged lunches are banned, then anyone who brings a bagged lunch will be under scrutiny. The third degree can come about whether they are the best of friends, mortal enemies or complete strangers. Why did you bring a lunch? Why are you exempt from the hard and fast rules? What are you eating...Why are you different?
It's hard enough to be different. To be unique. And now some schools insist that the unique individuals get a doctor to document their needs and then go around in obvious defiance of the school rule because they are exempt? This sends the wrong message.
I don't know about other kids with food allergies. But mine wants to slip just under the radar. She wants to bring enough chocolate chip cookies to share so that she isn't 'different'. She wants to donate a normal fruit platter, or be in charge of the crackers, or offer safe snacks that taste and appear 'normal' to her friends and schoolmates. She wants to be safe and cocooned in her food world...but she doesn't want anyone else to question it or tease her about it.
I'm sure there are kids who don't really care where their lunch comes from, or what's in it, as long as it tastes good. And parents who are happy to let the school make good decisions. There are plenty of families not paying any attention to the ratio of doughnuts and chips and cookies to fresh produce consumed in the household. But taking control by removing choice from consumers (You must purchase lunch here, no outside food in a school where children are required by a court of law to attend) doesn't solve anything.
I say ban soda if you have to ban something (it makes a sticky mess when spilled, and the way it sprays after being shaken up in a backpack all day can make a custodian cry), provide plenty of healthy options at the school...and turn a blind eye to the 'junk food' as long as it isn't consumed during class hours. Continue encouraging and teaching about good choices, start a garden (They won't be interested the first year, so give it 5 years) and eventually kids will start to make better and better choices. They have to be the ones to choose in the long run, we have to trust them with their own health. Which means, we start by trusting them with their own lunch.
Or, if it's ever necessary, plan to homeschool.
No, it's not the academic values, or the teacher quality, or the test scores. It's nothing to do with the lovely folk who live there. My problem with Chicago?
Some schools have a mandatory "purchase lunch here" policy. Of course, there is the standard "medical conditions are exempt" caveat.
My questions: How must the medical conditions be documented? And what constitutes a worthy medical excuse? Diabetes, food allergies, Celiac Disease...migraines? IBS? Lactose intolerance? Kosher requirements? Vegetarian or vegan choices? Behavior issues? Autism?
If they require a simple doctor's note, they usually require it every single year. And sometimes a new one midyear when some policy or another changes. It sounds reasonable to get your medical professional to write out a note for you. But doctors seem to HATE this policy. They have better things to do than take a 15 minute appointment to write a note stating that a medical condition has not been outgrown and that the parents, not the school administrators who have never met your child, should decide what, exactly, can and can not pass your child's teeth.
And then there's the simple fact that some medical conditions, like IBS, don't require one specific diet. It's an ongoing balancing act...and one day's requirements may be completely counter to another day's. Control over diet is critical to the overall health of someone with severe IBS or chronic digestive issues...and I guarantee that by High School; digestive concerns are the last thing any child wants to discuss over lunch.
Which brings up my next concern. If bagged lunches are banned, then anyone who brings a bagged lunch will be under scrutiny. The third degree can come about whether they are the best of friends, mortal enemies or complete strangers. Why did you bring a lunch? Why are you exempt from the hard and fast rules? What are you eating...Why are you different?
It's hard enough to be different. To be unique. And now some schools insist that the unique individuals get a doctor to document their needs and then go around in obvious defiance of the school rule because they are exempt? This sends the wrong message.
I don't know about other kids with food allergies. But mine wants to slip just under the radar. She wants to bring enough chocolate chip cookies to share so that she isn't 'different'. She wants to donate a normal fruit platter, or be in charge of the crackers, or offer safe snacks that taste and appear 'normal' to her friends and schoolmates. She wants to be safe and cocooned in her food world...but she doesn't want anyone else to question it or tease her about it.
I'm sure there are kids who don't really care where their lunch comes from, or what's in it, as long as it tastes good. And parents who are happy to let the school make good decisions. There are plenty of families not paying any attention to the ratio of doughnuts and chips and cookies to fresh produce consumed in the household. But taking control by removing choice from consumers (You must purchase lunch here, no outside food in a school where children are required by a court of law to attend) doesn't solve anything.
I say ban soda if you have to ban something (it makes a sticky mess when spilled, and the way it sprays after being shaken up in a backpack all day can make a custodian cry), provide plenty of healthy options at the school...and turn a blind eye to the 'junk food' as long as it isn't consumed during class hours. Continue encouraging and teaching about good choices, start a garden (They won't be interested the first year, so give it 5 years) and eventually kids will start to make better and better choices. They have to be the ones to choose in the long run, we have to trust them with their own health. Which means, we start by trusting them with their own lunch.
Saturday, April 09, 2011
I used to see kids melt down in public. Full blown screaming tantrums, and parents in various states of disarray, hair in disarray, bags falling out of arms, flailing limbs, red faces.
I'd shake my head with everyone else. And tell myself I wasn't judging.
But I lied.
I admit this now, to myself, after being 'that mom'. With the screaming, stomping, "I hate you! I wish I was never born! Why don't you love me?" kid. The one trying to unlock the car door while preventing flailing arms and legs from pummeling any other children (namely the sister who unexpectedly triggered the attack) The one telling her barely-over-12 year old to get in the **front** seat, and stuffing the breath-holding stiff-as-a-board child into the back.
I admit it because in between blocking kicks and steering kids through a well-populated area, I glimpsed a sea of faces. Most carefully averting their eyes, and a few too fascinated by the spectacle to be ashamed at watching. I remember thinking it wouldn't ever happen to me. My kids wouldn't... I'd cut it off early, never give in, never let it start. In retrospect, while I never really held it against them, I held myself apart from them. And now I've become that mom. With that kid.
The one who ate sprinkles yesterday and can't keep herself under control today.
I wish I could just pin a sign on her shirt that says "I'm not responsible for my actions if you feed me artificial food colorings" but I'm not sure anyone would pay attention. I wish I'd video taped todays performance, if not for FDA hearings on whether or not food dye is evil, then for a dr to help evaluate her...because she's usually an angel for strangers. I think the adrenaline of 'different' caretakers helps her keep control. But it's just a theory.
I don't pretend that eliminating food dyes from her diet would solve the problem. Even when she is dye free, which is most of the time, she has her moments. There is definitely something there that lies just outside the realm of norm. But, artificial colorings exacerbate it. They tip whatever scale it is inside of her that helps to maintain control and propriety.
And I don't mean to make excuses for her. She needs to keep herself from losing control. We're trying to find all the tools she needs to do it. I will say she's made progress. She was still "there" during this tantrum, and didn't have to cry herself to sleep to get out of it. And honestly...I've never given in to her tantrums. She's never once earned herself a new toy, an extra cookie, or a second trip around the merry go round. If her goal is to get me to leave the store, the closest she gets is sitting in the car or on a curb until she's calm and then heads back in. I'd wondered why she bothered throwing them until I read "The Explosive Child" and started pining after one of those dreaded labels. Now I try, hard, to take them in stride. Although, days like today, I'm not sure that's really working. (She's better...but she's nine. Shouldn't she be past this?)
Which reminds me that stress may not be the root of my digestive disorders, but it really doesn't help them any. Ugh.
I'd shake my head with everyone else. And tell myself I wasn't judging.
But I lied.
I admit this now, to myself, after being 'that mom'. With the screaming, stomping, "I hate you! I wish I was never born! Why don't you love me?" kid. The one trying to unlock the car door while preventing flailing arms and legs from pummeling any other children (namely the sister who unexpectedly triggered the attack) The one telling her barely-over-12 year old to get in the **front** seat, and stuffing the breath-holding stiff-as-a-board child into the back.
I admit it because in between blocking kicks and steering kids through a well-populated area, I glimpsed a sea of faces. Most carefully averting their eyes, and a few too fascinated by the spectacle to be ashamed at watching. I remember thinking it wouldn't ever happen to me. My kids wouldn't...
The one who ate sprinkles yesterday and can't keep herself under control today.
I wish I could just pin a sign on her shirt that says "I'm not responsible for my actions if you feed me artificial food colorings" but I'm not sure anyone would pay attention. I wish I'd video taped todays performance, if not for FDA hearings on whether or not food dye is evil, then for a dr to help evaluate her...because she's usually an angel for strangers. I think the adrenaline of 'different' caretakers helps her keep control. But it's just a theory.
I don't pretend that eliminating food dyes from her diet would solve the problem. Even when she is dye free, which is most of the time, she has her moments. There is definitely something there that lies just outside the realm of norm. But, artificial colorings exacerbate it. They tip whatever scale it is inside of her that helps to maintain control and propriety.
And I don't mean to make excuses for her. She needs to keep herself from losing control. We're trying to find all the tools she needs to do it. I will say she's made progress. She was still "there" during this tantrum, and didn't have to cry herself to sleep to get out of it. And honestly...I've never given in to her tantrums. She's never once earned herself a new toy, an extra cookie, or a second trip around the merry go round. If her goal is to get me to leave the store, the closest she gets is sitting in the car or on a curb until she's calm and then heads back in. I'd wondered why she bothered throwing them until I read "The Explosive Child" and started pining after one of those dreaded labels. Now I try, hard, to take them in stride. Although, days like today, I'm not sure that's really working. (She's better...but she's nine. Shouldn't she be past this?)
Which reminds me that stress may not be the root of my digestive disorders, but it really doesn't help them any. Ugh.
Thursday, April 07, 2011
Back away from the Jellybeans!
Those lovely assorted iconic Easter candies may just have to go this year. At least the traditional ones.
Although they are on shelves, and nothing in their standard artificial ingredient list has changed, the FDA is beginning to look closer at the questions raised by consumers.
They are catching up to European questions.
Although the evidence is still weak, the fact is that artificial food colorings and sodium benzoate in combination appear to increase the hyperactivity of the average 3-8 year old. The trouble is that activity is subjective. It can't be scientifically measured.
And, while we can note observations that are consistently raised after consumption of suspect foods, it's symptoms we witness occasionally when only safe foods are eaten as well.
The question is whether the colorings themselves are the cause.
I think the answer is obviously that they are one potential cause. And with the lack of testing (foodcolorings slipped under the radar and into our food supply, with slowly increasing amounts. Currently, the average child ingests about 121 milligrams of dye a day. It's a big number in small increments, but it's more than the amount of magnesium a 3 year old should be ingesting, and about a quarter of the calcium. Compared to vitamins...that's a lot of synthetic, non-essential junk. Especially when you factor in the picky eating that is common at that age...and the fact that preschoolers and school age children are still growing and forming. Anything that is going to affect health will have a greater affect on them just because they are at a more vulnerable stage of development than an adult.
Hyperactivity isn't the only health concern associated with artificial dyes and preservatives, it's only the one that gets the most press because of Dr. Feingold's work. Even cancer may be associated with certain colorings, but studies are still in the works.
Meanwhile, I don't think making bland food look brighter is worth the risk. So, this year, the Easter Bunny is searching out safer treats...resorting to beets and turmeric and black carrot juice to color Surf Sweet or Yummy Earth candies with, and maybe he'll splurge on Annie's Homegrown gummy bunnies.
It won't cost a fortune, because kids don't need a lot of sweet. My kids, anyways, will find plenty of non-edibles in their Easter baskets, and the plastic eggs he hides around the house. You don't need old fashioned jelly beans to have fun. And carrot cake can be just as exciting without multicolored springtime sprinkles.
Although they are on shelves, and nothing in their standard artificial ingredient list has changed, the FDA is beginning to look closer at the questions raised by consumers.
They are catching up to European questions.
Although the evidence is still weak, the fact is that artificial food colorings and sodium benzoate in combination appear to increase the hyperactivity of the average 3-8 year old. The trouble is that activity is subjective. It can't be scientifically measured.
And, while we can note observations that are consistently raised after consumption of suspect foods, it's symptoms we witness occasionally when only safe foods are eaten as well.
The question is whether the colorings themselves are the cause.
I think the answer is obviously that they are one potential cause. And with the lack of testing (foodcolorings slipped under the radar and into our food supply, with slowly increasing amounts. Currently, the average child ingests about 121 milligrams of dye a day. It's a big number in small increments, but it's more than the amount of magnesium a 3 year old should be ingesting, and about a quarter of the calcium. Compared to vitamins...that's a lot of synthetic, non-essential junk. Especially when you factor in the picky eating that is common at that age...and the fact that preschoolers and school age children are still growing and forming. Anything that is going to affect health will have a greater affect on them just because they are at a more vulnerable stage of development than an adult.
Hyperactivity isn't the only health concern associated with artificial dyes and preservatives, it's only the one that gets the most press because of Dr. Feingold's work. Even cancer may be associated with certain colorings, but studies are still in the works.
Meanwhile, I don't think making bland food look brighter is worth the risk. So, this year, the Easter Bunny is searching out safer treats...resorting to beets and turmeric and black carrot juice to color Surf Sweet or Yummy Earth candies with, and maybe he'll splurge on Annie's Homegrown gummy bunnies.
It won't cost a fortune, because kids don't need a lot of sweet. My kids, anyways, will find plenty of non-edibles in their Easter baskets, and the plastic eggs he hides around the house. You don't need old fashioned jelly beans to have fun. And carrot cake can be just as exciting without multicolored springtime sprinkles.
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Gluten Free idiots
Gee. Just when you thought things were settling down and the Gluten Free community was getting some respect, a famous chef comes out of the closet with his REAL feelings on the subject.
I won't repost his full condemnation. You can read it at ABC. Or here. Or here.
It's obvious this guy has anger management issues.
But the gist of the post isn't generic anger or irritation. He's not just angry. He's mad enough to do something. And dangerous enough to apparently smile while poisoning anyone with Celiac who walks through his door.
The worst part is...he seems educated. He knows what gluten is. He states that he will reassure gluten free diners that their food is gluten free, and then he will knowingly serve them homemade high-gluten pasta (extra gluten in dough can improve texture), and take their compliments.
What he doesn't realize is that Celiac disease is not anaphylaxis. It doesn't strike immediately. The gluten has to hit the intestines before it does it's damage. And different people react differently.
Some might have no symptoms at all. Some poor bloke could eat weekly at this restaurant, assured that the pasta is gluten free, and die from intestinal cancer. Because of the damage caused by the gluten he unknowingly ingested. Others will have their romantic night out spoiled...just about the time they're settling in for a movie, or bed. Or possibly not until tomorrow morning's early meeting that can't be missed.
Yes, grains have been a part of the human diet for hundreds of years. And Celiac has existed for just as long (there are reports in the Bible of wasting diseases that are suspected cases of Celiac disease. That means it's at least 2000 years old.)
But the sanity of a gluten free diet isn't the question. Any individual in America has the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We have the right to protect our lives the way we see fit. (By pursuing whatever diet...medically proven or fad...that we believe will be most suitable to our needs) We have the right to CHOOSE what we eat. Now, we don't have to choose to eat in restaurants. But, if we do, we have the right to know what exactly they are putting in the food if we choose to ask. And we have the right to pursue happiness. Some chef who has decided that a medical diagnosis of Celiac Disease is ridiculous and therefore derails attempts to live a normal life within the constraints of a medically restricted diet interferes with our right to pursue happiness.
In fact, he could cause irreprable harm. Not just to a person's health (eventually, there is an exposure that you really don't come back all the way from) but to their psyche. If he's assuring a gluten free consumer that they received a gluten free meal, while they are developing symptoms, they will blame the symptoms on something else. Like nerves, or eating out in general (the stress or the airborne particles) or kissing their significant other. A well placed reaction can lead to a fight between even the most understanding of spouses. Just because it's disappointing to have well made plans go astray for bathroom access.
I don't think this man is alone in thinking people following a gluten free diet are "idiots". (liberal hippie idiots, in fact) And that's the real danger. I've seen the poker face that slides over someone's face when I clarify that no, we don't make exceptions for parties. No, we don't make exceptions for really good pizza or really expensive cookies. It's all or nothing for our family. Mr. Violets and Bumblebee eat all the gluten they want outside of the home and ask for no accomodation. Penguin and I eat none. At all. Period.
The reactions are miserable and it sends the wrong message. Some people think the diet is too restrictive. I think that it's only restrictive when there are people we can't trust to respect our choices and physical needs. And statements like the ones made by Chef Cardone make those of us with dietary needs feel that we can't trust others, even ones who seem supportive.
I won't repost his full condemnation. You can read it at ABC. Or here. Or here.
It's obvious this guy has anger management issues.
But the gist of the post isn't generic anger or irritation. He's not just angry. He's mad enough to do something. And dangerous enough to apparently smile while poisoning anyone with Celiac who walks through his door.
The worst part is...he seems educated. He knows what gluten is. He states that he will reassure gluten free diners that their food is gluten free, and then he will knowingly serve them homemade high-gluten pasta (extra gluten in dough can improve texture), and take their compliments.
What he doesn't realize is that Celiac disease is not anaphylaxis. It doesn't strike immediately. The gluten has to hit the intestines before it does it's damage. And different people react differently.
Some might have no symptoms at all. Some poor bloke could eat weekly at this restaurant, assured that the pasta is gluten free, and die from intestinal cancer. Because of the damage caused by the gluten he unknowingly ingested. Others will have their romantic night out spoiled...just about the time they're settling in for a movie, or bed. Or possibly not until tomorrow morning's early meeting that can't be missed.
Yes, grains have been a part of the human diet for hundreds of years. And Celiac has existed for just as long (there are reports in the Bible of wasting diseases that are suspected cases of Celiac disease. That means it's at least 2000 years old.)
But the sanity of a gluten free diet isn't the question. Any individual in America has the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We have the right to protect our lives the way we see fit. (By pursuing whatever diet...medically proven or fad...that we believe will be most suitable to our needs) We have the right to CHOOSE what we eat. Now, we don't have to choose to eat in restaurants. But, if we do, we have the right to know what exactly they are putting in the food if we choose to ask. And we have the right to pursue happiness. Some chef who has decided that a medical diagnosis of Celiac Disease is ridiculous and therefore derails attempts to live a normal life within the constraints of a medically restricted diet interferes with our right to pursue happiness.
In fact, he could cause irreprable harm. Not just to a person's health (eventually, there is an exposure that you really don't come back all the way from) but to their psyche. If he's assuring a gluten free consumer that they received a gluten free meal, while they are developing symptoms, they will blame the symptoms on something else. Like nerves, or eating out in general (the stress or the airborne particles) or kissing their significant other. A well placed reaction can lead to a fight between even the most understanding of spouses. Just because it's disappointing to have well made plans go astray for bathroom access.
I don't think this man is alone in thinking people following a gluten free diet are "idiots". (liberal hippie idiots, in fact) And that's the real danger. I've seen the poker face that slides over someone's face when I clarify that no, we don't make exceptions for parties. No, we don't make exceptions for really good pizza or really expensive cookies. It's all or nothing for our family. Mr. Violets and Bumblebee eat all the gluten they want outside of the home and ask for no accomodation. Penguin and I eat none. At all. Period.
The reactions are miserable and it sends the wrong message. Some people think the diet is too restrictive. I think that it's only restrictive when there are people we can't trust to respect our choices and physical needs. And statements like the ones made by Chef Cardone make those of us with dietary needs feel that we can't trust others, even ones who seem supportive.
Friday, April 01, 2011
April Fools
Most people diagnosed with a corn allergy for the first time, breathe a sigh of relief. At least it isn't something really hard, like gluten or dairy.
And then they read the list, and check their calendar.
Today's April Fools day, and I can't help but thinking it should also be Corn Allergy Awareness day. (Or maybe April 2nd should be...when the realization that it ISN'T a joke sinks in). Because as surreal as food restrictions seem, especially ones that extend to medication and what an animal ate before it was slaughtered not to mention the slaughtering process, they are real. And many of us lead a surreal life in order to actually live...or at least, in the hopes of actually LIVING. Breathing. Dreaming. Enjoying.
It seems crazy. Which is why it's important to keep our sense of humor. It helps deal with uncomfortable situations like the side-long glance when you turn down water for a corn allergy (Yeah, well, certain brands...) Or when you have to go sit on a porch because the host decided to pop some corn, or did some nice deep cleaning before you got there. You see...April 2nd really would be the ideal awareness day...humor mixed with reality, and acceptance.
And since April is also the month for Autism Awareness, let's expand it to be the month to solve puzzles in healthcare...and accept that there is more than we understand about the body, not just something to blame on stress.
And then they read the list, and check their calendar.
Today's April Fools day, and I can't help but thinking it should also be Corn Allergy Awareness day. (Or maybe April 2nd should be...when the realization that it ISN'T a joke sinks in). Because as surreal as food restrictions seem, especially ones that extend to medication and what an animal ate before it was slaughtered not to mention the slaughtering process, they are real. And many of us lead a surreal life in order to actually live...or at least, in the hopes of actually LIVING. Breathing. Dreaming. Enjoying.
It seems crazy. Which is why it's important to keep our sense of humor. It helps deal with uncomfortable situations like the side-long glance when you turn down water for a corn allergy (Yeah, well, certain brands...) Or when you have to go sit on a porch because the host decided to pop some corn, or did some nice deep cleaning before you got there. You see...April 2nd really would be the ideal awareness day...humor mixed with reality, and acceptance.
And since April is also the month for Autism Awareness, let's expand it to be the month to solve puzzles in healthcare...and accept that there is more than we understand about the body, not just something to blame on stress.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Sometimes food allergies and restrictions seem so much a part of my life, I'm surprised to remember that not everyone deals with them every single day. Not everyone comprehends the reality of true allergies. And some people still tend to shock and sadden me. Stories like the Florida protesters, parents who don't want their children to spend time washing their hands and rinsing out their mouths at school to keep a fellow schoolchild safe.
Some kids have mild allergies. The symptoms are uncomfortable, and they avoid them to varying degrees...depending on the parent and their understanding and ability to conform. Others have severe allergies. Their parents have watched eyes and lips swell; held blue children in their arms and listened to sirens wailing, acknowledging deep inside that this time it might really by it...all the while hoping, praying, holding their own breath that the epi pen kicks in and they make it to the hospital. And out again.
Of course those parents would want to keep their child in a bubble. Protect them, lock them up like Rapunzel in a tower. But that isn't realistic. We have to live with food allergies, our kids have to LIVE with food allergies. And it gets easier as they get older and everyone under the sun doesn't try and offer treats to them. Or treat them as rude and inconsiderate if they say "no thank you" to a cookie. But in elementary school, kids are really at the mercy of the adults around them. And sometimes, those adults need extreme measures to keep themselves on task. "Our kids have rights, too!" the protest signs read.
I've seen the case debated and both sides say "If you don't like it, homeschool!" The difference is, the allergic child either needs the accommodations or can't safely attend school. It's perfectly safe for the ones objecting to the rules to attend. They just have to follow the necessary guidelines.
I have to wonder what the kids are learning. Respect for the needs of others, or resentment for those who are different?
I'm grateful we aren't anaphylactic. And saddened by the actions of those who don't want to accommodate someone who is.
Some kids have mild allergies. The symptoms are uncomfortable, and they avoid them to varying degrees...depending on the parent and their understanding and ability to conform. Others have severe allergies. Their parents have watched eyes and lips swell; held blue children in their arms and listened to sirens wailing, acknowledging deep inside that this time it might really by it...all the while hoping, praying, holding their own breath that the epi pen kicks in and they make it to the hospital. And out again.
Of course those parents would want to keep their child in a bubble. Protect them, lock them up like Rapunzel in a tower. But that isn't realistic. We have to live with food allergies, our kids have to LIVE with food allergies. And it gets easier as they get older and everyone under the sun doesn't try and offer treats to them. Or treat them as rude and inconsiderate if they say "no thank you" to a cookie. But in elementary school, kids are really at the mercy of the adults around them. And sometimes, those adults need extreme measures to keep themselves on task. "Our kids have rights, too!" the protest signs read.
I've seen the case debated and both sides say "If you don't like it, homeschool!" The difference is, the allergic child either needs the accommodations or can't safely attend school. It's perfectly safe for the ones objecting to the rules to attend. They just have to follow the necessary guidelines.
I have to wonder what the kids are learning. Respect for the needs of others, or resentment for those who are different?
I'm grateful we aren't anaphylactic. And saddened by the actions of those who don't want to accommodate someone who is.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Fifteen Fictional Characters
This apparently started as a facebook status post; but it's hit various message boards, reading forums and now I'm probably not the first to take it to my blog. :-)
The idea is to list 15 fictional characters who are influential to your life. They can be from books, movies, TV series (past and present) or plays. They can be well known or obscure. Just someone, anyone, who has made you go "hmmm," and somehow found a place in your life.
You are not to think too long about this task. They suggested 15 minutes, but when I first came across and was intrigued by the idea...I drew a blank. Who has most influenced me? Who has influenced me? Er, um. Hm. What was her name again? From...that movie...about...well, it was elusive.
Anyways. I have purposefully not concentrated or put too much thought into this, but I have tossed the idea around in my head for longer than 15 minutes.
Fifteen Fictional Characters; in no particular order:
1. Sam Gribley. Who didn't dream of living on a mountain in the middle of nowhere, or the catskills, or somewhere undiscovered after reading "My Side of the Mountain"?
2. Anna. I doubt very many people reading this blog have heard of Anna. The book was "Mister God, This is Anna" and it was written by Fynn. I'm not sure who had more influence, the girl Fynn described or the man whose life was changed by her, but the book kept me thinking for a long time. It's time to return to it. :-)
3. Laura Ingalls Wilder; book and TV series. The characters blend in my mind at this point.
4. Sally from When Harry Met Sally. She taught me how to order in restaurants, and that it was okay to be weird long before food allergies entered the picture. :-)
5. Molly Grue. She's the one that follows Schmendrick in The Last Unicorn. She walked away from everything for a dream; and then she mentored a hero.
6. Gilbert Blythe.
7. Anne Shirley (Blythe) Yeah, well...Like every other tweenager I fell in love with the story. Even as an adult she was awesome; as was Gil. The perfect literary couple.
8. Lilly (of the Purple plastic purse) She really demonstrates how kids think sometimes. At least, my kids.
9. Annie Sullivan: Although she's a historical character, she's also "The Miracle Worker" and I drank in everything I could read about her...or resembling the story. i think of "The Miracle Worker" when Bumblebee melts down sometimes. It gives me a weird sense of calm.
10. Elizabeth; the woman from "When breaks the Dawn"; a series I very much enjoyed as a tween. My grandma introduced me to the world of Janette Oke, and although it's light Christian romance, the stories helped me to form and define my faith...encouraging me to look at what they looked up and consider thoughts the characters pondered. Besides...I used to love the thought of living in the wilds. Like Sam Gribley. Only, with an awesome Mounty husband and a huge eskimo dog.
11. Santa Clause. In any incarnation, pretty much. A mythical man who delivers presents in secret although many doubt his existence. Awesome.
12. The youngest Who. Who believed in Christmas, not gifts.
13. Jo in Little Women. She did her own thing, which was right, and was an author. Although I didn't think she should marry Bauer. Until I read Little Men, anyway.
14. Cinderella. She was always cheerful, no matter what the others did, she was comfortable with who she was and accepted her lot in life.
15. Merriweather. She's a fairy in Sleeping Beauty and possibly my favorite Disney character. She's always saying NO! and then cleaning up the mess when no one listens to her. I can identify with that...
There was also Olivia Walton, and Ma and Pa Ingalls (more the TV show than the books), and Jonathon the leather-jacket-wearing-angel ("I turned the other cheek" now...*knockout*), and many others I can't quite think of right now. Most things you read become a part of you whether you really want them to or not, sometimes in ways you can't quite explain. I'm not sure why the above made my top 15. Although I added a bit of an explanation, what makes them the top? They just came to mind first. And they're only the "fictional" characters. I've noticed that almost all of these were characters I came to love somewhere between the ages of 12 and 18...which I found interesting. I suppose that's when my identity was forming, solidifying.
Anyways...enough of that. There's my top 15. I'm not sure if they have anything to do with stress, or food allergies, but I either identified with them on some level or they impacted me in some way.
Who would you choose?
The idea is to list 15 fictional characters who are influential to your life. They can be from books, movies, TV series (past and present) or plays. They can be well known or obscure. Just someone, anyone, who has made you go "hmmm," and somehow found a place in your life.
You are not to think too long about this task. They suggested 15 minutes, but when I first came across and was intrigued by the idea...I drew a blank. Who has most influenced me? Who has influenced me? Er, um. Hm. What was her name again? From...that movie...about...well, it was elusive.
Anyways. I have purposefully not concentrated or put too much thought into this, but I have tossed the idea around in my head for longer than 15 minutes.
Fifteen Fictional Characters; in no particular order:
1. Sam Gribley. Who didn't dream of living on a mountain in the middle of nowhere, or the catskills, or somewhere undiscovered after reading "My Side of the Mountain"?
2. Anna. I doubt very many people reading this blog have heard of Anna. The book was "Mister God, This is Anna" and it was written by Fynn. I'm not sure who had more influence, the girl Fynn described or the man whose life was changed by her, but the book kept me thinking for a long time. It's time to return to it. :-)
3. Laura Ingalls Wilder; book and TV series. The characters blend in my mind at this point.
4. Sally from When Harry Met Sally. She taught me how to order in restaurants, and that it was okay to be weird long before food allergies entered the picture. :-)
5. Molly Grue. She's the one that follows Schmendrick in The Last Unicorn. She walked away from everything for a dream; and then she mentored a hero.
6. Gilbert Blythe.
7. Anne Shirley (Blythe) Yeah, well...Like every other tweenager I fell in love with the story. Even as an adult she was awesome; as was Gil. The perfect literary couple.
8. Lilly (of the Purple plastic purse) She really demonstrates how kids think sometimes. At least, my kids.
9. Annie Sullivan: Although she's a historical character, she's also "The Miracle Worker" and I drank in everything I could read about her...or resembling the story. i think of "The Miracle Worker" when Bumblebee melts down sometimes. It gives me a weird sense of calm.
10. Elizabeth; the woman from "When breaks the Dawn"; a series I very much enjoyed as a tween. My grandma introduced me to the world of Janette Oke, and although it's light Christian romance, the stories helped me to form and define my faith...encouraging me to look at what they looked up and consider thoughts the characters pondered. Besides...I used to love the thought of living in the wilds. Like Sam Gribley. Only, with an awesome Mounty husband and a huge eskimo dog.
11. Santa Clause. In any incarnation, pretty much. A mythical man who delivers presents in secret although many doubt his existence. Awesome.
12. The youngest Who. Who believed in Christmas, not gifts.
13. Jo in Little Women. She did her own thing, which was right, and was an author. Although I didn't think she should marry Bauer. Until I read Little Men, anyway.
14. Cinderella. She was always cheerful, no matter what the others did, she was comfortable with who she was and accepted her lot in life.
15. Merriweather. She's a fairy in Sleeping Beauty and possibly my favorite Disney character. She's always saying NO! and then cleaning up the mess when no one listens to her. I can identify with that...
There was also Olivia Walton, and Ma and Pa Ingalls (more the TV show than the books), and Jonathon the leather-jacket-wearing-angel ("I turned the other cheek" now...*knockout*), and many others I can't quite think of right now. Most things you read become a part of you whether you really want them to or not, sometimes in ways you can't quite explain. I'm not sure why the above made my top 15. Although I added a bit of an explanation, what makes them the top? They just came to mind first. And they're only the "fictional" characters. I've noticed that almost all of these were characters I came to love somewhere between the ages of 12 and 18...which I found interesting. I suppose that's when my identity was forming, solidifying.
Anyways...enough of that. There's my top 15. I'm not sure if they have anything to do with stress, or food allergies, but I either identified with them on some level or they impacted me in some way.
Who would you choose?
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Parenting and Holland
Like most people, I had a vague idea of what sort of parent I hoped to be. I formed an image in my mind of our family, of how I would handle different situations.
When I got pregnant sooner than anticipated, I knew that those images were changing, just by virtue of the situation. I continued to form ideas, but I kept them vague. General.
I quickly learned that the only way to parent my wayward babies with my wavering health was to take things as they came, without judgment.
I like the Holland metaphor.
Some days, I feel as if I've embarked on a journey. I embraced the excitement. I packed a small bag of just the essentials (patience, respect, and creativity) and set out. I said "I'm going to Italy!" I was so excited, I only glanced at the guidebooks. I didn't bother to learn the language, I just accepted that I'd learn as I went.
I climbed on the train and looked out the window. I saw tulips. I bought quaint little clogs. I gushed over the waterfront and windmills. I explored the shops, learning to speak Dutch through immersion. But somewhere along the way, as I contact friends to tell them of my experiences in "Italy", I started to suspect that it wasn't Italy. It's only in retrospect that I was given a label for the things I've observed, experienced.
And it's not Italy.
Maybe it's vacation. It's a voyage, an adventure. But there's no gelato, or Venice, Rome, Florence. And there's no Colosseum hiding around the bend .
And in retrospect, I see that the times I traversed flooding railway tracks were not necessarily "normal" inconveniences. But at the time, they were a problem...and I simply pressed through the best I could. I've reassessed my expectations of this adventure. But, I'm no longer certain it's Italy.
I'm not sure if the labels I find will ever work. After all, I still had the time of my life, and there's no going back. No matter what I do, there will be no Colosseum, no Italian vineyards to explore. Even if I were to miraculously manage a transfer, I'd be comparing the two visits and wondering what I was missing from the trip I first embarked on.
I didn't really realize that there was anything all that out of the ordinary until I started hearing others gush about their Italian vacations and realized that my experience, while valid and wonderful, just doesn't quite compare. It doesn't mean I don't enjoy my journey. I do. But this is where a label comes in handy.
When I complain about the pea soup, or mention the coffee hour, if I knew I was in Holland a lightbulb would go on. But if I'm talking of Italy, the image just doesn't jive with the pasta and gelato they experienced. When I talk about the quaint cottages I stayed at, and they recall brick vineyards...well, it's hard to relate.
We didn't all visit Italy. I was in Holland, but I don't know the word for it, even though I learned to communicate with the people I met.
Just like this fictional vacation; I'm raising my kids with limited labels. I have a few...I know Penguin's a trichotillomaniac with ADD tendencies and Bumblebee...well; I know there is a label for her. But I still don't know what it is, or if it's worth pursuing.
And then there's the food.
The food is kind of like that elusive Colosseum. I had a vague idea of my plans, an image of what I wanted to see. I keep thinking it's just around the corner. And then I remember I'm not in Italy. And there is no Colosseum here. But there are beautiful flowers, lovely people, and amazing views. I'll always wonder about that Colosseum. But I wouldn't trade these views for the Roman Empire.
When I got pregnant sooner than anticipated, I knew that those images were changing, just by virtue of the situation. I continued to form ideas, but I kept them vague. General.
I quickly learned that the only way to parent my wayward babies with my wavering health was to take things as they came, without judgment.
I like the Holland metaphor.
Some days, I feel as if I've embarked on a journey. I embraced the excitement. I packed a small bag of just the essentials (patience, respect, and creativity) and set out. I said "I'm going to Italy!" I was so excited, I only glanced at the guidebooks. I didn't bother to learn the language, I just accepted that I'd learn as I went.
I climbed on the train and looked out the window. I saw tulips. I bought quaint little clogs. I gushed over the waterfront and windmills. I explored the shops, learning to speak Dutch through immersion. But somewhere along the way, as I contact friends to tell them of my experiences in "Italy", I started to suspect that it wasn't Italy. It's only in retrospect that I was given a label for the things I've observed, experienced.
And it's not Italy.
Maybe it's vacation. It's a voyage, an adventure. But there's no gelato, or Venice, Rome, Florence. And there's no Colosseum hiding around the bend .
And in retrospect, I see that the times I traversed flooding railway tracks were not necessarily "normal" inconveniences. But at the time, they were a problem...and I simply pressed through the best I could. I've reassessed my expectations of this adventure. But, I'm no longer certain it's Italy.
I'm not sure if the labels I find will ever work. After all, I still had the time of my life, and there's no going back. No matter what I do, there will be no Colosseum, no Italian vineyards to explore. Even if I were to miraculously manage a transfer, I'd be comparing the two visits and wondering what I was missing from the trip I first embarked on.
I didn't really realize that there was anything all that out of the ordinary until I started hearing others gush about their Italian vacations and realized that my experience, while valid and wonderful, just doesn't quite compare. It doesn't mean I don't enjoy my journey. I do. But this is where a label comes in handy.
When I complain about the pea soup, or mention the coffee hour, if I knew I was in Holland a lightbulb would go on. But if I'm talking of Italy, the image just doesn't jive with the pasta and gelato they experienced. When I talk about the quaint cottages I stayed at, and they recall brick vineyards...well, it's hard to relate.
We didn't all visit Italy. I was in Holland, but I don't know the word for it, even though I learned to communicate with the people I met.
Just like this fictional vacation; I'm raising my kids with limited labels. I have a few...I know Penguin's a trichotillomaniac with ADD tendencies and Bumblebee...well; I know there is a label for her. But I still don't know what it is, or if it's worth pursuing.
And then there's the food.
The food is kind of like that elusive Colosseum. I had a vague idea of my plans, an image of what I wanted to see. I keep thinking it's just around the corner. And then I remember I'm not in Italy. And there is no Colosseum here. But there are beautiful flowers, lovely people, and amazing views. I'll always wonder about that Colosseum. But I wouldn't trade these views for the Roman Empire.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Sometimes it really is just stress
At the beginning of the school year, we noticed something really...odd...about Penguin's appearance.
Her eyes. There was something...different. The lashes were disappearing.
She admitted to pulling them out during a tense part of a book she was reading. She agreed to stop, and began wearing gloves to bed to help herself remember not to pluck.
Then there were no eyelashes left. And her eyebrows started to disappear.
That's when she said she needed help. She was stressed out abuot school. She was stressed out about her sister (who insists on living life as intensely as she can). She was embarrassed about her vanishing hair.
I called the doctor, and then the school to find someone to talk to her.
I was assured that it was a parenting issue, and that I should handle it at home.
I looked it up online and found that, undoubtedly, she had developed something called "trichotillomania", or the compulsive desire to pull out her own hair. She described the urges just the way the websites do. It's essentially a cross between OCD and a nervous habit. When she's bored or stressed out, she develops an overwhelming urge to remove hair. If she doesn't comply, she has a panic attack. I repeatedly tell her she's not in any trouble at all, but I'd like her to try and wait just a little longer before giving in. (Preferably forever, but I *think* that will come in time)
Eventually we managed to get in to see a psychologist. She was very nice, very reassuring, but she says she can't help.
Although the Mayo Clinic does indicate that imbalances of dopamine and seratonin (which, interestingly enough, can also effect migraines) can play a part in trichotillomania, she disagrees. It's stress. We just need to destress her life. Which I'm happy to do, and reluctant to try meds even if they are indicated.
I just thought it was ironic. After all these years of pulling out MY hair (figuratively speaking) while working with doctors to slowly discover that in truth..,it's not "just stress" that makes me miserable; sometimes...well, sometimes it really IS just stress.
Trichotillomania just happens to be one of those times.
Her eyes. There was something...different. The lashes were disappearing.
She admitted to pulling them out during a tense part of a book she was reading. She agreed to stop, and began wearing gloves to bed to help herself remember not to pluck.
Then there were no eyelashes left. And her eyebrows started to disappear.
That's when she said she needed help. She was stressed out abuot school. She was stressed out about her sister (who insists on living life as intensely as she can). She was embarrassed about her vanishing hair.
I called the doctor, and then the school to find someone to talk to her.
I was assured that it was a parenting issue, and that I should handle it at home.
I looked it up online and found that, undoubtedly, she had developed something called "trichotillomania", or the compulsive desire to pull out her own hair. She described the urges just the way the websites do. It's essentially a cross between OCD and a nervous habit. When she's bored or stressed out, she develops an overwhelming urge to remove hair. If she doesn't comply, she has a panic attack. I repeatedly tell her she's not in any trouble at all, but I'd like her to try and wait just a little longer before giving in. (Preferably forever, but I *think* that will come in time)
Eventually we managed to get in to see a psychologist. She was very nice, very reassuring, but she says she can't help.
Although the Mayo Clinic does indicate that imbalances of dopamine and seratonin (which, interestingly enough, can also effect migraines) can play a part in trichotillomania, she disagrees. It's stress. We just need to destress her life. Which I'm happy to do, and reluctant to try meds even if they are indicated.
I just thought it was ironic. After all these years of pulling out MY hair (figuratively speaking) while working with doctors to slowly discover that in truth..,it's not "just stress" that makes me miserable; sometimes...well, sometimes it really IS just stress.
Trichotillomania just happens to be one of those times.
Monday, February 14, 2011
The Hardest Holiday
When it comes to food related treats...Valentines day just might take the chocolate cake.
It's second only to Halloween in candy filled delights, from the dum-dums taped to classroom valentines to the red heart shaped boxes lining grocery and drug store shelves to the scrumptious recipes for sinful chocolate dipped strawberries or swirled fudgy brownies that abound in my email inbox.
The ubiquitous conversation hearts are practically as iconic as candy corn. And twice as fun, since you get to make up silly poems on your school desk before enjoying them.
And since it's not a "big" holiday...it seems like everyone likes to go overboard. And feels justified in passing out "just a little candy" because it's February. What's the harm in having a little fun for a small holiday?
Nothing. There's nothing wrong with it. And actually, the gluten free/casein free crowd might enjoy a variety of mainstream Valentine treats...since most of the confections are simply sugar...spun in various forms and molded into a variety of shapes. Artificially flavored and dyed pretty petroleum based colors, they aren't good for you. But they aren't damaging intestines the way gluten might. Or doubling you over the way casein might.
Even the chocolate dipped strawberries can be made safe.
However, when you're 8; and you can't eat artificial dyes without really going nuts, the holiday is hard.
Today there was a GREAT party with cake, strawberries and whipped cream (That Bumblebee could eat!) and then the party became "The worst ever" because the valentines were passed out.
Unfortunately, I've grown complacent. The kids both had the flu all last week (The scary form of the flu...that had us in for chest x rays and contemplating antibiotics because that fever just wouldn't break), we're on a budget, it's a Hallmark holiday and so I didn't do much in the way of preparing. Bad plan.
Most of Bumblebees valentines this year included something colorful and edible. I'm proud of her for choosing not to enjoy them. I'm sad that she was grumpy and felt left out. The gluten free kid could eat the candy. The nut allergy kids could eat the candy. There were other kids who chose not to eat the candy (kids like I used to be...who just don't like suckers and chewy artificial goop) but Bumblebee felt like she was the only one who **couldn't** eat the candy.
She told me she could've and I wouldn't have known the difference.
I agreed.
But she didn't because she doesn't like how it makes her feel.
"I want one of my candies" she told me, "And I'm going to choose to eat one unless you can give me a good reason not to!"
I opened my mouth.
"Ten good reasons!" She amended.
When I said that artificial food colors are banned from kids' food in Europe she asked why Americans let kids eat them. Penguin interrupted with "Because they're dumb."
"Why do you have to be smart, then?" Bumblebee grouched at me. (I corrected them both with the information that most of our society is simply uninformed. Not dumb.)
I started to falter around 8. She grinned, then giggled. Gave an exaggerated sigh at 10.
And then she enjoyed a bit of pudding cake. (My experiment du jour...it was a success, although I thought this first incarnation might be a bit too rich)
Some will probably wonder why on earth I'm leaving something like this up to her. Why is it such a stress?
The answer is simple. Food dye reactions are mostly behavioral and fall in the neurological and 'intolerance' spectrum. That means that there isn't a lot of medical backing, or reassurance. It means she doesn't have a quantifiable reaction. It also means that we might take calculated risks.
When it comes to true allergies, there is no gray area. You either need to avoid the allergen, or you don't. Penguin has distinctly debilitating (but not life threatening) reactions to gluten and dairy. And blue dye. There is no acceptable risk for her. There isn't an "Ugh, oops...oh well." If she is exposed she misses at least 24 hours...more like 48. And she seems to feel 'bleck' for longer. If a person with an anaphylactic dairy allergy eats something with a touch of butter on it; they can stop breathing or go into cardiac arrest. There's no room for a learning curve or experimentation.
But Bumblebee's intolerance is in the gray zone. If there's a way to avoid the dye, we do. If she were to need an antibiotic that was colored, though, we could muddle through. Calling it an "allergy" without following through with total avoidance lessens the view of allergies in general and creates a false sense of security.
So why do I leave such an important decision up to her? Because it is her body. And ultimately, it's her choice. She can cheat on this "diet". I wouldn't know the difference; except that she was exceptionally more difficult than usual.
It has to be her choice to be healthier, happier. I'll support it one hundred percent, and if she makes good choices I'll provide safe, appropriate, and FUN alternatives. If she chooses poorly, I won't be nearly as supportive through the recoop time. I won't punish her, but I won't provide (expensive) alternate treats. And I won't go to bat for her if she's going to waffle around. It's not fair to the kids who can't cheat, who can't even take a calculated risk. And it isn't fair to her to have rules that bend and change to fit the day's requirements. Only she knows the best choices for herself. So at this point, I'm letting it be harder and telling her I disapprove of her eating them but not forbidding it. Mean, but hopefully it will strengthen her resolve in the long run.
Meanwhile, Penguin's homemade valentines came out adorable. She cut key shapes out of cardstock, wrote little sayings on them (which I'm not supposed to read or share) and then attached them to little heart shaped keychains. Bumblebee taped markers to fuzzy poster valentines. Fun, cute but not "over the top" since she doesn't like to stand out too much.
And on the brighter side, Penguin had an awesome Valentine's day in Middle school. Her friends gave out cutesy cards. And since she's still recovering from the flu...she doesn't really care about the limited candy making it's way around. She's just tickled that there was a lollipop that's safe for her. :-)
It's second only to Halloween in candy filled delights, from the dum-dums taped to classroom valentines to the red heart shaped boxes lining grocery and drug store shelves to the scrumptious recipes for sinful chocolate dipped strawberries or swirled fudgy brownies that abound in my email inbox.
The ubiquitous conversation hearts are practically as iconic as candy corn. And twice as fun, since you get to make up silly poems on your school desk before enjoying them.
And since it's not a "big" holiday...it seems like everyone likes to go overboard. And feels justified in passing out "just a little candy" because it's February. What's the harm in having a little fun for a small holiday?
Nothing. There's nothing wrong with it. And actually, the gluten free/casein free crowd might enjoy a variety of mainstream Valentine treats...since most of the confections are simply sugar...spun in various forms and molded into a variety of shapes. Artificially flavored and dyed pretty petroleum based colors, they aren't good for you. But they aren't damaging intestines the way gluten might. Or doubling you over the way casein might.
Even the chocolate dipped strawberries can be made safe.
However, when you're 8; and you can't eat artificial dyes without really going nuts, the holiday is hard.
Today there was a GREAT party with cake, strawberries and whipped cream (That Bumblebee could eat!) and then the party became "The worst ever" because the valentines were passed out.
Unfortunately, I've grown complacent. The kids both had the flu all last week (The scary form of the flu...that had us in for chest x rays and contemplating antibiotics because that fever just wouldn't break), we're on a budget, it's a Hallmark holiday and so I didn't do much in the way of preparing. Bad plan.
Most of Bumblebees valentines this year included something colorful and edible. I'm proud of her for choosing not to enjoy them. I'm sad that she was grumpy and felt left out. The gluten free kid could eat the candy. The nut allergy kids could eat the candy. There were other kids who chose not to eat the candy (kids like I used to be...who just don't like suckers and chewy artificial goop) but Bumblebee felt like she was the only one who **couldn't** eat the candy.
She told me she could've and I wouldn't have known the difference.
I agreed.
But she didn't because she doesn't like how it makes her feel.
"I want one of my candies" she told me, "And I'm going to choose to eat one unless you can give me a good reason not to!"
I opened my mouth.
"Ten good reasons!" She amended.
When I said that artificial food colors are banned from kids' food in Europe she asked why Americans let kids eat them. Penguin interrupted with "Because they're dumb."
"Why do you have to be smart, then?" Bumblebee grouched at me. (I corrected them both with the information that most of our society is simply uninformed. Not dumb.)
I started to falter around 8. She grinned, then giggled. Gave an exaggerated sigh at 10.
And then she enjoyed a bit of pudding cake. (My experiment du jour...it was a success, although I thought this first incarnation might be a bit too rich)
Some will probably wonder why on earth I'm leaving something like this up to her. Why is it such a stress?
The answer is simple. Food dye reactions are mostly behavioral and fall in the neurological and 'intolerance' spectrum. That means that there isn't a lot of medical backing, or reassurance. It means she doesn't have a quantifiable reaction. It also means that we might take calculated risks.
When it comes to true allergies, there is no gray area. You either need to avoid the allergen, or you don't. Penguin has distinctly debilitating (but not life threatening) reactions to gluten and dairy. And blue dye. There is no acceptable risk for her. There isn't an "Ugh, oops...oh well." If she is exposed she misses at least 24 hours...more like 48. And she seems to feel 'bleck' for longer. If a person with an anaphylactic dairy allergy eats something with a touch of butter on it; they can stop breathing or go into cardiac arrest. There's no room for a learning curve or experimentation.
But Bumblebee's intolerance is in the gray zone. If there's a way to avoid the dye, we do. If she were to need an antibiotic that was colored, though, we could muddle through. Calling it an "allergy" without following through with total avoidance lessens the view of allergies in general and creates a false sense of security.
So why do I leave such an important decision up to her? Because it is her body. And ultimately, it's her choice. She can cheat on this "diet". I wouldn't know the difference; except that she was exceptionally more difficult than usual.
It has to be her choice to be healthier, happier. I'll support it one hundred percent, and if she makes good choices I'll provide safe, appropriate, and FUN alternatives. If she chooses poorly, I won't be nearly as supportive through the recoop time. I won't punish her, but I won't provide (expensive) alternate treats. And I won't go to bat for her if she's going to waffle around. It's not fair to the kids who can't cheat, who can't even take a calculated risk. And it isn't fair to her to have rules that bend and change to fit the day's requirements. Only she knows the best choices for herself. So at this point, I'm letting it be harder and telling her I disapprove of her eating them but not forbidding it. Mean, but hopefully it will strengthen her resolve in the long run.
Meanwhile, Penguin's homemade valentines came out adorable. She cut key shapes out of cardstock, wrote little sayings on them (which I'm not supposed to read or share) and then attached them to little heart shaped keychains. Bumblebee taped markers to fuzzy poster valentines. Fun, cute but not "over the top" since she doesn't like to stand out too much.
And on the brighter side, Penguin had an awesome Valentine's day in Middle school. Her friends gave out cutesy cards. And since she's still recovering from the flu...she doesn't really care about the limited candy making it's way around. She's just tickled that there was a lollipop that's safe for her. :-)
Saturday, February 12, 2011
I love it when dinner goes surprisingly well.
Tonight's plan was to finally make that tuna noodle casserole Penguin was too sick for last night. (Friday is casserole night; and this week it was going to be Thursday because of rehearsal but everyone got sick.)
This is a meal that will feed Mr Violets, myself and Penguin. Bumblebee will eat the noodles with a bit of cheese, if I save the noodles before assembling. Sometimes. Other times she makes faces at the dinner table and licks her veggies until her toast is ready. Yes, she's a bit old for that kind of behavior. But since it's an improvement and we can see the visual struggle she goes through not to throw a full out tantrum...it's a compromise we live with. Most of the time.
Anyways. Back to my story.
I started with the onion. Chopped it up and started carmelizing it on the stove. (I'm not very good at this part...I usually charcoalize bits and soften bits and brown bits. But I didn't do too bad tonight.) Then I rinsed out the spinach. Then I discovered we were out of peas, so I decided that tonight's experiment would be to add peppers.
Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, and since the kids both have an exceptionally nasty case of the flu vitamin C sounds like a good plan.
The water was boiling by now, so I opened the cupboard to pull out the pasta.
I found spice cake mix for making lunch 'muffins'.
I found spaghetti.
I found the Trader Joe's brand rice spaghetti my husband bought by accident and Bumblebee didn't like because it's thinner than Tinkyada and doesn't hold up to overcooking as well.
I found an extra bottle of grapeseed oil, the mint tea bag I keep up there as protection against food moths and a mysterious curly ribbon.
Drat.
Then I remembered telling myself to write "TJ--corkscrew pasta" on the list last time I made pasta. Before I got distracted by having to play referee and Mr Violet's arrival home.
Double drat.
I looked at the softening onions, the casserole dish with spinach and bell peppers and the boiling water. I furrowed my brow. I looked at the spaghetti in my hand and thought "But, spaghetti and tuna just sounds...gross. It's...wrong."
Then Penguin called out, and I answered.
"Mommy, if it's not too much trouble, could I have rice and beans for dinner? I think there's leftovers. And then you and Bumblebee can have mac and cheese I guess." (This is a big sacrifice. Penguin hates when the rest of us have mac and cheese because she can't eat it. But she's sick, she knows her sister is sick and she wanted to do something nice for her.)
I looked at the casserole dish again, and let the wheels in my brain turn, vaguely a recipe for savory noodle kugel I once read about. I assessed my options...and made the spaghetti. We weren't going to eat it as spaghetti anyways. Well, I might. The kids and my husband will continue to hem and haw and choose cereal if we're out of Tinkyada. (Ironically, they prefer the TJ corkscrews, though.)
Then I cubed up teensy tiny cubes of cheese. I didn't feel like grating it.
I beat 2 eggs. I probably could have beaten 3, but I was just experimenting at that point. I really didn't want tuna with spaghetti, I didn't want beans with all those veggies tonight, and I did want a protein.
I mixed it all together. Added a ladle full of veggie broth. Stuffed it in the oven and let it bake for half an hour while I refreshed water bottles, redosed everyone on medecine and started Penguin's leftover rice and beans on the back burner.
I ended up with a meal that fed 3; just as planned. It just didn't feed the 3 that I expected it to feed. And Bumblebee wasn't nearly as thrilled with my concoction as Penguin tends to enjoy regular casserole.
So it's a definite make again meal. Maybe next time I'll even try it with an extra egg or two and no cheese. But, I like the cheese. It added extra pockets of creamy flavor. It wasn't a 5 star meal. It wouldn't earn any acclaim.
But it was tasty and free of corn, gluten, nuts and dye. What more can one ask for in a meal?
Tonight's plan was to finally make that tuna noodle casserole Penguin was too sick for last night. (Friday is casserole night; and this week it was going to be Thursday because of rehearsal but everyone got sick.)
This is a meal that will feed Mr Violets, myself and Penguin. Bumblebee will eat the noodles with a bit of cheese, if I save the noodles before assembling. Sometimes. Other times she makes faces at the dinner table and licks her veggies until her toast is ready. Yes, she's a bit old for that kind of behavior. But since it's an improvement and we can see the visual struggle she goes through not to throw a full out tantrum...it's a compromise we live with. Most of the time.
Anyways. Back to my story.
I started with the onion. Chopped it up and started carmelizing it on the stove. (I'm not very good at this part...I usually charcoalize bits and soften bits and brown bits. But I didn't do too bad tonight.) Then I rinsed out the spinach. Then I discovered we were out of peas, so I decided that tonight's experiment would be to add peppers.
Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, and since the kids both have an exceptionally nasty case of the flu vitamin C sounds like a good plan.
The water was boiling by now, so I opened the cupboard to pull out the pasta.
I found spice cake mix for making lunch 'muffins'.
I found spaghetti.
I found the Trader Joe's brand rice spaghetti my husband bought by accident and Bumblebee didn't like because it's thinner than Tinkyada and doesn't hold up to overcooking as well.
I found an extra bottle of grapeseed oil, the mint tea bag I keep up there as protection against food moths and a mysterious curly ribbon.
Drat.
Then I remembered telling myself to write "TJ--corkscrew pasta" on the list last time I made pasta. Before I got distracted by having to play referee and Mr Violet's arrival home.
Double drat.
I looked at the softening onions, the casserole dish with spinach and bell peppers and the boiling water. I furrowed my brow. I looked at the spaghetti in my hand and thought "But, spaghetti and tuna just sounds...gross. It's...wrong."
Then Penguin called out, and I answered.
"Mommy, if it's not too much trouble, could I have rice and beans for dinner? I think there's leftovers. And then you and Bumblebee can have mac and cheese I guess." (This is a big sacrifice. Penguin hates when the rest of us have mac and cheese because she can't eat it. But she's sick, she knows her sister is sick and she wanted to do something nice for her.)
I looked at the casserole dish again, and let the wheels in my brain turn, vaguely a recipe for savory noodle kugel I once read about. I assessed my options...and made the spaghetti. We weren't going to eat it as spaghetti anyways. Well, I might. The kids and my husband will continue to hem and haw and choose cereal if we're out of Tinkyada. (Ironically, they prefer the TJ corkscrews, though.)
Then I cubed up teensy tiny cubes of cheese. I didn't feel like grating it.
I beat 2 eggs. I probably could have beaten 3, but I was just experimenting at that point. I really didn't want tuna with spaghetti, I didn't want beans with all those veggies tonight, and I did want a protein.
I mixed it all together. Added a ladle full of veggie broth. Stuffed it in the oven and let it bake for half an hour while I refreshed water bottles, redosed everyone on medecine and started Penguin's leftover rice and beans on the back burner.
I ended up with a meal that fed 3; just as planned. It just didn't feed the 3 that I expected it to feed. And Bumblebee wasn't nearly as thrilled with my concoction as Penguin tends to enjoy regular casserole.
So it's a definite make again meal. Maybe next time I'll even try it with an extra egg or two and no cheese. But, I like the cheese. It added extra pockets of creamy flavor. It wasn't a 5 star meal. It wouldn't earn any acclaim.
But it was tasty and free of corn, gluten, nuts and dye. What more can one ask for in a meal?
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
Once upon a time, I was a vegetarian. A strict vegetarian.
I didn't eat red meat, or "white meat", or poultry or fish. I even swore off eggs and honey and dairy products for a time, in honor of "a cruelty free lifestyle".
I wasn't judgemental of others choices, or at least...I didn't mean to be. I thought I accepted them and that any of our teasing was in good natured fun. But I was proud of my choices, and my ability to wield my choice proudly. I looked forward to passing this dietary discretion on to my children. The whole "we choose what we eat, we choose what impact we make on the world, and we choose respect through nutrients" thing that I hadn't completely worked out in my still-maturing mind was important to me; and at one time I identified my conscientious eating as a vegetarian lifestyle.
I may not have always had an ideal vegetarian lifestyle, and I now realize that pasta roni meals simply aren't nearly as environmentally sound as a few conscientiously harvested scrambled eggs with locally grown veggies. But I tried.
Although I still think that cruelty free eating is important, and I'm still on an ethical eating kick...I'm no longer focused on flesh free food. I'm too busy avoiding gluten, and corn derivatives, and a myriad of other dangers. When you're corn derivative free...well, your options are remarkably confined. Add in gluten and dairy to the restrictions and your available proteins are left at...eggs. Beans. Nuts. Throw in digestive disorders...and you start to rethink the whole ethical eating idea.
As I've stated before, my personal tipping of the scales came when I paused and asked myself "What would Jesus have eaten?" (I'm not trying to be all high and mighty there, my religious beliefs are certainly convoluted and confusing...but I hang steadfastly to the belief that for me, personally, they are right. Just as yours are right for you.) And the answer came to me, quietly but assuredly "Mary made Chicken soup. 'Jewish pennicilin'" (Again, no offense intended to those websurfers who manage to stumble onto this post from some random web search.) And so, I sought out safe chicken.
This has left my family reeling. I began raising my kids with the "it's better to avoid flesh foods; but we all make our own decisions and we WILL respect others choices" mantra. They told people they were vegetarian, making their own choices. And then...then I dropped a landslide as I began sliding into a carnivorous world. (No, I'm still not eating red meat. And I'm still keeping it kosher style to the best of my ability. My half jewish husband isn't very helpful. His household wasn't kosher.)
I'm still in the "You choose what you believe" mind set for my kids though; whether we are discussing Santa Clause, the religion they most closely identify with or what to eat for dinner.
"Meat is bad," my youngest tells me, "You shouldn't eat dead things. I think it makes them sad. Would you want someone to eat YOU?"
And then she glares at me reproachfully. I try to simply remind her that there is a circle of life on the planet. And that some animals do get eaten. Even the Bible condones it, to a degree. The main thing is to eat anything you choose to eat respectfully. To choose healthy produce, and whole grains and protein sources.
She munches on her cheese crackers and continues to glare.
But my husband, being who he is, purchased bacon. It's not kosher by any stretch of the imagination. (except maybe St. Paul) and it's probably not terribly healthy. Although the bacon purchased is nitrite free.
He offered some to the kids. Who eventually accepted.
I'm not complaining, mind you. As said...I'm still in the "everyone chooses what to believe" mindset. And everyone makes their own peace with their choices, so it's fine if the kids want to eat bacon. I doubt it would be safe for me, even if I could justify consuming pig. They eat bacon, and I'll even prepare it for them.
But what boggles my mind is last night's exchange.
Bumblebee not only wanted bacon...but she didn't want to let Daddy cook it.
Mommy's bacon is better.
Now how on earth did an ex vegetarian who still can't bring herself to consume meat from a 4 legged animal ever become the "better" bacon cooker?
I always say the hardest thing about cooking for food allergies is not getting to taste things to see how they're coming along.
But apparently, my easy-cheating style of cooking has produced not just an edible bacon...but one that my picky daughter prefers over my (also picky) bacon eating husband's.
Weird.
I didn't eat red meat, or "white meat", or poultry or fish. I even swore off eggs and honey and dairy products for a time, in honor of "a cruelty free lifestyle".
I wasn't judgemental of others choices, or at least...I didn't mean to be. I thought I accepted them and that any of our teasing was in good natured fun. But I was proud of my choices, and my ability to wield my choice proudly. I looked forward to passing this dietary discretion on to my children. The whole "we choose what we eat, we choose what impact we make on the world, and we choose respect through nutrients" thing that I hadn't completely worked out in my still-maturing mind was important to me; and at one time I identified my conscientious eating as a vegetarian lifestyle.
I may not have always had an ideal vegetarian lifestyle, and I now realize that pasta roni meals simply aren't nearly as environmentally sound as a few conscientiously harvested scrambled eggs with locally grown veggies. But I tried.
Although I still think that cruelty free eating is important, and I'm still on an ethical eating kick...I'm no longer focused on flesh free food. I'm too busy avoiding gluten, and corn derivatives, and a myriad of other dangers. When you're corn derivative free...well, your options are remarkably confined. Add in gluten and dairy to the restrictions and your available proteins are left at...eggs. Beans. Nuts. Throw in digestive disorders...and you start to rethink the whole ethical eating idea.
As I've stated before, my personal tipping of the scales came when I paused and asked myself "What would Jesus have eaten?" (I'm not trying to be all high and mighty there, my religious beliefs are certainly convoluted and confusing...but I hang steadfastly to the belief that for me, personally, they are right. Just as yours are right for you.) And the answer came to me, quietly but assuredly "Mary made Chicken soup. 'Jewish pennicilin'" (Again, no offense intended to those websurfers who manage to stumble onto this post from some random web search.) And so, I sought out safe chicken.
This has left my family reeling. I began raising my kids with the "it's better to avoid flesh foods; but we all make our own decisions and we WILL respect others choices" mantra. They told people they were vegetarian, making their own choices. And then...then I dropped a landslide as I began sliding into a carnivorous world. (No, I'm still not eating red meat. And I'm still keeping it kosher style to the best of my ability. My half jewish husband isn't very helpful. His household wasn't kosher.)
I'm still in the "You choose what you believe" mind set for my kids though; whether we are discussing Santa Clause, the religion they most closely identify with or what to eat for dinner.
"Meat is bad," my youngest tells me, "You shouldn't eat dead things. I think it makes them sad. Would you want someone to eat YOU?"
And then she glares at me reproachfully. I try to simply remind her that there is a circle of life on the planet. And that some animals do get eaten. Even the Bible condones it, to a degree. The main thing is to eat anything you choose to eat respectfully. To choose healthy produce, and whole grains and protein sources.
She munches on her cheese crackers and continues to glare.
But my husband, being who he is, purchased bacon. It's not kosher by any stretch of the imagination. (except maybe St. Paul) and it's probably not terribly healthy. Although the bacon purchased is nitrite free.
He offered some to the kids. Who eventually accepted.
I'm not complaining, mind you. As said...I'm still in the "everyone chooses what to believe" mindset. And everyone makes their own peace with their choices, so it's fine if the kids want to eat bacon. I doubt it would be safe for me, even if I could justify consuming pig. They eat bacon, and I'll even prepare it for them.
But what boggles my mind is last night's exchange.
Bumblebee not only wanted bacon...but she didn't want to let Daddy cook it.
Mommy's bacon is better.
Now how on earth did an ex vegetarian who still can't bring herself to consume meat from a 4 legged animal ever become the "better" bacon cooker?
I always say the hardest thing about cooking for food allergies is not getting to taste things to see how they're coming along.
But apparently, my easy-cheating style of cooking has produced not just an edible bacon...but one that my picky daughter prefers over my (also picky) bacon eating husband's.
Weird.
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