Why choose Paleo?

For anyone familiar with dietary restrictions due to allergies, digestive issues or auto-immune deficiencies you probably already know the answer to this question. For those that are not familiar, I'll tell you my story. I have had numerous illnesses since I was a child. From asthma to thyroid problems to autoimmune deficiencies to extreme food allergies to infectious viruses and Lyme Disease, I have seen it all. I've also dealt with breast cancer scares three times over the years. Thank God, all that was found were pre-cancerous cells. The doctors always said that my issues pointed to Fibromyalgia but even then they are not completely convinced. So since the medical community was unable to help me find some relief from my many symptoms, I turned to where many have turned for some shred of hope. The internet!

I spent years researching, going to homeopathic and chiropractic doctors. I tried numerous diets: juice smoothie fasts, vegan lifestyle, etc. I read countless books and articles on all things health and nutrition. Finally, a friend told me about the Paleo diet. One night, at an Essential Oils party I discovered a book called, "The Autoimmune Paleo Cookbook" by Mickey Trescott, NTP. It's an allergen-free approach to managing chronic illness. I will tell you this...the protocol is not for the faint of heart. I must give Mickey credit, she knew her stuff. In her book, she recommends that certain foods be removed from the diet and replaced with high quality, nutrient dense foods. The premise is that this helps heal the gut from intestinal permeability (otherwise known as "leaky gut") which is shown to be present in those with autoimmune disease. By removing food allergens from the diet, the gut lining is then able to heal and proper flora balance can be established. What can result is the lessening of symptoms and healing can occur.

As I stated earlier, the protocol is not for the faint of heart but when you are at your wit's end and in constant, crippling pain it tends to not be so difficult. After 2 years of following the diet (one year strictly and the following with caution) I felt relief. I have found that staying gluten-free has helped but staying close to the Paleo diet not only keeps me almost pain-free, it also keeps me in shape. I look at it like a game...what can I eat and still stay in my size 6 jeans!! As much as I love food, it's well-worth the sacrifice!

Here is one of my saving-grace recipes that I had for breakfast this morning and they were delish!

Bob's Red Mill Paleo Pancakes

Ingredients

• 1 cup Paleo Baking Flour

• 3/4 tsp Baking Soda

• 1/4 tsp Salt

• 2 Eggs

• 1/3 – 1/2 cup Regular or Non-Dairy Milk or Water

• 1 Tbsp Coconut Oil or butter, melted and cooled

• 2 tsp Honey or Maple Syrup

• 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

1. Preheat skillet to medium heat, about 325°F.

2. In a small bowl, combine Paleo Baking Flour, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, 1/3 cup milk or water, coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

3. Add flour blend and whisk thoroughly. If batter is too thick, add additional milk or water until it reaches a pourable consistency.

4. Pour ¼ cup batter onto the preheated skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes, then flip and continue to cook for 3 minutes. Repeat until all batter is used. Makes eight 4-inch pancakes.

And for those wondering...no, my family doesn't mind eating Paleo but not as strictly as I follow. *smile*