Food is an essential part of our everyday lives. Not only do we need it, but many of us are obsessed with finding the best foods we can eat. There’s nothing like indulging in our favorite meals to put us in a better mood. However, what happens when we discover a particular food we love is harming our bodies? How do we move forward, replacing other foods with the ones we miss? At some point, we must cut out these harmful items and decide to put our health first.
Food sensitives might be challenging to navigate, but you can always replace the foods you once loved with other ingredients. If you are new to understanding your food sensitivities, take heart knowing that many food companies have developed different ingredients that won’t harm your body. There’s even gluten free pie crust you can use to make delicious desserts! Here are some tips that will steer you toward better health.
1. Sort through your kitchen and remove harmful foods
Many household kitchens have a variety of different foods stocked away in their pantry. Unfortunately, there may be plenty of fresh and frozen food items lingering in your home that may not be safe for you to eat anymore. You might also own ingredients that you can longer add to your recipes when you cook.
This food restriction might be a harsh realization to come to terms with, but you must know what foods to throw out. Read the nutrition labels on the foods in your home and toss out what you cannot eat anymore.
2. Substitute ingredients to make familiar foods
Once you throw out the food items you no longer want due to dietary restrictions, you can begin to purchase new food items and new ingredients. Your home should be full of nourishing foods that fill your kitchen and pantry shelves.
When you go shopping, you might become overwhelmed by the supply in the grocery store. Read the labels carefully on each food item you consider buying. You can still cook many of your favorite recipes. Just be sure to buy the right substitute ingredients.
3. Start eating foods that work for your body
If you have recently consulted with your physician about your food sensitivities, they may have given you a list of the foods you should avoid. They may have also given you a list of nourishing foods to enjoy instead.
In some cases, when people cut out a variety of different food items, they miss out on some of the vitamins and minerals they desperately need. Ensure that you are eating a variety of foods that are nutritious for your body.
4. Discover foods and menu items that won’t cause problems at home or a restaurant
Hopefully, your physician will discuss new foods you can incorporate into your weekly meal plans. Some physicians may recommend brands of foods that have worked for their patients in the past.
Before you go out to eat with friends or colleagues, consider viewing the restaurant’s online menu. You can also call the restaurant beforehand and ask what dishes are best for someone with your food sensitivity.
5. Lean on your support system
Now that you know you’re sensitive to a particular food, you may want to ask your physician for advice on what it might be like to shop at grocery stores or order food items at restaurants. Your doctor can help you navigate this new culinary landscape.
Consider telling a close friend or family member about your food sensitivity. This way, when you need help finding a menu item that accommodates your needs at a restaurant, you can ask them for help.
Food gives us sustenance and nourishment. It may also provide us with comfort. Remember that you are not alone in your journey, and you can re-discover new foods that you will love to eat. You deserve to find healthy foods that keep your mind and body strong.
