Wild Zora’s Dehydrated Meals and Bars – a review

One of the most challenging things about the transition to life as a Celiac (or otherwise) on a gluten free diet (especially if you have additional allergies or sensitivities) is the loss of convenience foods, and foods with stable shelf life. While this is annoying in daily life, it is most challenging in contexts like backcountry hiking, camping, or preparing a disaster kit. Wild Zora to the rescue! Continue reading “Wild Zora’s Dehydrated Meals and Bars – a review”

Lauren’s Hope Medical Jewelry – a review

In an emergency where you or your loved ones are unable to talk and advocate for your care, wearing medical jewelry can be life saving! This could be especially important if you have a condition like Diabetes, an allergy to latex, corn, or medications, or a condition that might cause vital signs that would seem odd out of context, as in the case of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, among others. It can also be incredibly important for emergency medical staff to know if you are taking any medications, experience seizures, or are allergic to any analgesic medications. Try to think of the issues that are most likely to come up in a situation where you were unconscious (eg. getting IV fluids, a blood transfusion, having surgery or stitches, etc). If the issues are complex, it would be wise to include instructions to look for the paper in your purse, the note saved on your phone, or the contact information for a person who could explain on your behalf. Continue reading “Lauren’s Hope Medical Jewelry – a review”

Gabriel Cosmetics – a review

I used Gabriel Cosmetics years ago, before I was diagnosed with Celiac disease. I think I stopped somewhere in the midst of living in Prague, getting diagnosed, and switching all my products. So you can imagine my surprise and sheer glee when I discovered that they are in fact Certified Gluten Free!!! Their website states:

“Gabriel, Zuzu Luxe and Clean Kids Naturally have been certified gluten-free by the Gluten Intolerance Group. According to GFCO’s website their certification seal, “stands for the independent verification of quality, integrity, and purity of products. Products carrying the GF logo represents unmatched reliability and for meeting strict gluten-free standards. GFCO is the leading gluten-free certification program in the world.” Continue reading “Gabriel Cosmetics – a review”

Hot Logic – a review

I recently learned about the HotLogic Mini from another blogger who posted about it on their Instagram feed, and I have to say this thing is the new best friend of every human with a restrictive or modified diet! This fabulous little device allowed me to participate in a weekend away with 30 people in a cabin, without getting sick as I had on the same trip two years ago (when I had tried to do it sharing the communal kitchen. They also kept grains in a designated, ventilated area which helped keep me safe too). If you’re doing any sort of travel that will still give you access to a power outlet (they have adaptors for international travel and car adapters too), this thing is the bees knees! It could also be a wonderful solution for those working in offices or on the road. Let me tell you a bit more about how this thing works…
Continue reading “Hot Logic – a review”

Select Wisely Allergen Safety Cards – a review

Are you getting tired of repeating the same spiel to every server, chef, and family member who wants to learn how to cook for you? Would you love to have a pocket sized card that you could hand them with the most essential things for them to know to be able to prepare a meal that will be safe for you? Select Wisely is a company that makes these cards, offering several different standard options for allergies like nuts, dairy, gluten (we know Celiac disease isn’t an allergy, but the information would still be relevant in this case), sugar, etc. You can also order a custom card tailored to your specific needs! How cool is that?! And for any of you with Diabetes, they offer additional resources for diabetics for navigating airport security screening with your medical supplies! Continue reading “Select Wisely Allergen Safety Cards – a review”

Carina Organics – a review

Ok, it’s time I let you in on a little secret…. I LOVE CARINA ORGANICS!!! Not only do they make incredibly high quality products that perform as well – or better than – mainstream products, but they also don’t contain any gluten, corn, soy, or other grains! They are free of any nastiness or toxins that could be absorbed through the skin! And they’re totally safe?! Huzzah! They’re even made close to where I live! I LOVE them! Continue reading “Carina Organics – a review”

Red Apple Lipstick – a review

If you have discovered that you have a medical reason to avoid gluten/grains, there are a daunting number of places to consider as possible sources for cross contamination. Makeup is one of these. You can read more about why this is an important source to consider here. If you think about it, many powders and pressed powders pouf into the air, which you breathe in, and eventually swallow some along with the mucus in your airways. Products that you put on your lips (or that are on the lips of those you like to kiss) are also of particular concern as they are easiest to lick off and swallow. I used to get eczema and horrible burning rashes from most makeup before I was diagnosed. I even noticed that when I used mascaras that contain gluten or corn, my eyes would twitch, burn, and itch. No fun at all! Continue reading “Red Apple Lipstick – a review”