It took me many years to realize I could not tolerate grains. I finally realized they were inflaming my body.
The Paleo Diet suggests removing grains for people who suffer with inflammation, joint pains, digestive issues and even depression. For me, I have found it vital for my autoimmune, my thyroid, my digestion, my sleep and my overall health to remove grains and beans. When I consume grains or beans, I feel swollen, tired and inflammed.
Look for imbalances in your body such as:
- headaches
- stomach pain
- muscle cramps
- coughing
- fatigue
- insomnia
- restlessness
- weak immune system
- muscle weakness
- poor concentration
- poor bowel elimination
- brain fog
I have found it more difficult to pin point how foods can affect me emotionally.
Look for imbalances in your emotions such as:
- feeling anxious
- angry
- sad
- depressed
- restless
- irritable
- agitated
- hyper
Food can either fuel the body or inflame it and for me, grains and beans inflame my body.
Going grain free can be really easy – you will not miss your favorite foods such as Oatmeal.
Here is my signature Grain Free Oatmeal Recipe for you.
Paleo “Oatmeal”
Active time: 10 minutes Total time: 10 minutes Serves 1
1/4 cup Coconut Flour
1/4 cup canned coconut milk
3/4+ water
1/2 banana
1 Egg
1/3 cup canned pumpkin
1/3 cup coconut chips (optional but gives it and oatmeal like texture)
1/2 square of unsweetened baker’s chocolate
Salt, cinnamon, vanilla extract
In a pot over medium heat combine the coconut flour, coconut milk, water, and thinly sliced 1/2 banana. Stir constantly until everything is combined and banana is broken up (~2 minutes). Crack the egg in and whisk until cooked and fully incorporated. Turn heat to low and stir in pumpkin, coconut chips, salt, cinnamon and vanilla.
Remove from heat and break up the unsweetened chocolate with a knife and sprinkle over the bowl and stir in. Serve warm with a dollop of coconut milk is desired. If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal you can use a full banana or add a sweetener of choice.
xo, Rachel
