Pumpkin Pie

After a two year hiatus, I checked in on my blog and realized that it receives hundreds of views a month. So, new product reviews are on the way.

Health has been a struggle. The longer I've been gluten free (due to celiac disease), the more sensitive I've become to cross-contamination. While the headaches and stomach aches can be brutal, part of me is relieved to know if I'm being the slightest bit poisoned. Essentially, I'm a guinea pig for the less-symptomatic celiacs, who can still suffer long-term effects of the disease without always knowing if they've eaten gluten.

Rarely do I eat at restaurants these days, which means that I cook most of my meals at home. This includes my new favourite breakfast food: pumpkin pie. Sobey's sells "Wholly Wholesome" Gluten-Free Pie Shells 2 for $6.99!

I've probably made about 20 pies since September. It's very simple - just mix together canned pumpkin, brown sugar, almond milk, a bit of ginger, and maybe an egg. Bake it at 350-400 degrees until it looks/smells/tastes done.

Pie Shell: "INGREDIENTS: Brown Rice Flour, Water, Non‐Hydrogenated Palm Fruit Shortening, Organic Evaporated Cane Juice, Tapioca Starch, Potato Starch, Sea Salt, Aluminum Free Baking Powder, Xanthan Gum. Produced in a Gluten, Wheat, Dairy, Egg, Soy, Nut & Casein Free Environment"

Learning to Dance

Until recently, I'd thought that being able to dance was an opportunity I'd missed out on.

Moving to music at a bar/club/wedding reception is simple enough, but learning and performing choreographed steps is pretty foreign to me. Apparently, I took dance when I was five and hated it. That was almost twenty years ago! People who dance are usually graceful, dramatic, and expressive, and I admire their confidence. An active life-style is healthy in so many ways; physically AND mentally.

With the exception of some swing-dance in high school, and a bit of belly dancing while living abroad, I haven't taken a dance class. I know my coordination is lacking, and I have no rhythm, but practice will improve that, right? When I was learning basic belly dance moves, I hula-hooped to get better. [Unfortunately, I failed at my 2008 New Years resolution to hula-hoop every day for the rest of my life].

A friend and I wanted to take a belly dance class this summer, but instead decided on a jazz class! If Britta on Community can take dance as an adult, why can't I? Maybe I'll be an awkward teapot as well one day.

[Side note: I purchased a leotard at American Apparel and found a neat way to reuse the sturdy brown bag that it came in; it makes an excellent storage container for my headbands, hair clips, scrunchies etc.]

At the first dance class, the enthusiastic instructor taught us foot positions/hand positions, stretching, and even a few dance moves [they had French names that I can't remember]. It was great to learn alongside other adults who had also recently discovered dance. The instructor even agreed to use songs from The Great Gatsby soundtrack in future classes, as myself and another student are big Gatsby fans. Though I often nervously forget where my feet are supposed to move, I will improve, and I'll have one less regret in life!

Pacifica Perfume

Are you looking for a safer perfume with fewer ingredients than the well-known brands?

Last week, I discovered Pacifica roll-on perfume at a natural health store.  Pacifica is a brand that sells a variety of unique scents (i.e.: Tuscan Blood Orange, Brazilian Mango Grapefruit) and classic scents (i.e.: Sandalwood). They are delightfully accurate, but not over-powering.

There are 14 scents available online. Each 10ml bottle sells for $12 + tax + shipping (for Canadians). Pacifica is an American company, based in Portland, Oregon.

I purchased the California Star Jasmine scent from a local retailer, and while jasmine is the most noticeable aroma, it also has a hint of orange and "faint driftwood." I've been using it daily, and I'm quit impressed. While the scent is not as long-lasting as other perfumes, there are fewer ingredients, which is definitely a positive.

Ingredients: Alcohol denatured (natural grain), parfum (Pacifica's own fragrance blend with natural and essential oils), aqua.

The perfume is 100% vegan and is not tested on animals. It is also "free of parabens, phthalates, and propylene glycol." Pacifica donates to "clean water" projects, and manufactures its perfumes in the U.S.A.

At first, as a celiac, I was concerned about the "natural grain" content (could this mean barley, or even wheat?). I called Pacifica. The lady who answered was very friendly, and confirmed that the grain is corn, and that all of Pacifica's perfumes are gluten free. However, I'm still curious about the "blend of natural and essential oils," as the ingredients could be listed more specifically. While I recommend this perfume, remember that even natural products can cause allergies in some individuals. If you have any questions about the ingredients, call: 1-800-866-337-7100, or email Pacifica at customerservice@pacificaperfume.com.

Have you tried Pacifica before? Share your thoughts.

Kanchanjangha Organic Green Tea

Last Christmas, I received a lot of tea. This one really stood out; it is not only an eco-fair-trade product sold in a Nepalese purse - it gave me a new love for green tea (must be the lemongrass?). I decided to further research the story behind the product to share with you.

Kanchanjangha Tea (KTE) is grown in the hills below Mount Kanchanjangha in Nepal, and is the result of farmers forming a cooperative in the mid-1980s. The Chairman, farmer Deepak Prakash Bashkota, was key in organizing this initiative, and the products are now available in 13 countries. The fair-trade certified organic tea plantation provides jobs for locals, and the farmers are technically "owners," as KTE is a cooperative.

Here KTE provides a basic timeline that begins with planting and ends with brewing so that the consumer better understands the process. Wouldn't it be lovely if all companies did this?

The website also includes photos of their products (a variety of tea, spices, organic juices). There is an order form online, though the products are also distributed through a Canadian whole-saler.

I asked my mother where she purchased the tea: someone was selling it as a fundraiser. On the tea purse, there was a sticker that read "Eco Fair Trading Ltd." I did some further investigating (read: googling), and learned that this is the name of a wholesale company that imports eco-friendly products from abroad. On their site, they have downloadable pdf information catalogues for; retailers who want to sell Eco Fair Trading Ltd. products, consumers who want to find a store, and groups who wish to fundraise.

Even if you aren't a retailer, check out the wholesale catalogue to see other eco fair-trade products imported by the company. I definitely recommend the tea!

Here is the information sheet that came with the Green Tea w/Lemongrass. Quote: "Organic tea provides freshness to the body and mind."

According to the website, the plantation is open to visitors (if you happen to be in the Himalayas).

Endless Color Nail Polish - Physician's Formula

When I was eight years old my grandmother told me, "always paint your toenails, it's good for them." For some reason, I took this seriously. Throughout high school, my nails were ever-painted, though each time I'd open up a bottle, my dad would say, "That stuff is toxic."

While nail polish is never "healthy," I'm always looking for brands that make it less toxic. Three years ago, I discovered that I have celiac disease, and I've paid close attention to the contents of food and beauty products ever since.

Until recently, the only "natural" nail polish that I'd used was Scotch Naturals. It chips almost instantly. While it is completely non-toxic, a tiny bottle costs nearly $15.

Gluten may or may not be in nail polish, but a new "gluten free" polish caught my eye last month at the grocery store. Not only is Physician's Formula Endless Color nail polish gluten free, it is also free from; camphor, toluene, formaldehyde, parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs, and triclosan.

I have no scientific background, but I'll include the ingredient list for anyone who may be interested:
Contains: butyl acetate, ethyl acetate, nitrocellulose, phthalic anhydride/trimellitic anhydride/glycols copolymer, isopropyl alcohol, acetyl tributyl citrate, stearalkonium hectorite, adipic acid/fumaric acid/phthalic acid/triclodecane dimethanol copolymer, citric acid, May Contain: ferric ferrocyanide, mica titanium dioxide, red 6, red 7, red 34, yellow 5.

Still, a lot of scary sounding ingredients. Chemists, please elaborate!

I decided to try the product, as it is guaranteed to be gluten-free. The colours are sold in thematic category trios for $12.95: Smokin' Haute, Three Shades of Grey, Trendsetter Chic, California Goddess, Fashion Icon, In the Nude, Bare it All, and Treat Yourself. I purchased the set "In the Nude," as the colours are neutral and chipping is less noticeable.

Physician's Formula Endless Color nail polish works just as well as any other nail polish (note: the colours are intended to be muted/neutral). On my fingernails, I used the rose-hued polish, and last week, I tried the lighter pink one. On my toes, I used the pastel purple. [Fact: I spent 10 minutes trying to take a flattering photo of my feet. Verdict: My feet are creepy].

While it is fantastic that Physician's Formula Endless Color Trios are free from petrochemicals etc., I will likely use the polish more often on my toenails than on my fingernails.

In contrast to the Physician's Formula polish, the Scotch Naturals polish has only 4 ingredients: water, acrylic polymer emulsion, butoxy diglycol, non-toxic colorants. This leads me to believe that there is a middle-ground polish out there that; has fewer ingredients than Physician's Formula and is longer lasting than Scotch Naturals.

Flowers, Herbs, Veggies! Beginner Container Gardening

Last summer (while I neglected this blog), I had the amazing opportunity to work in a greenhouse, and to learn a "little bit" about gardening. Now that it is almost spring again, I thought it would be the perfect time to share my experiences from the last growing season. * Planting times differ based on location (in some places, it still frosts in May), so my "advice" will be quite general.

As a child, I enjoyed helping my parents weed and water their garden. They have the space to produce a few hundred tomatoes a year, peas, carrots, lettuce, potatoes, sunflowers, peppers, a variety of flowers etc. [See photo of gigantic sunflowers below].

The soil in my own yard probably couldn't do this on its own, and I surely don't have the knowledge on how to make that happen. As a beginner gardener, I took advice from my co-workers to start with container gardening, and it worked quite well.

Gardening in containers is beneficial because you move them around the yard based on the amount of sunlight or shade the plants require. Also, the entire container does not have to be filled with soil - it is useful to have rocks at the bottom for drainage. The rocks also help to weigh down the containers on windy days. Containers can be hidden during stormy weather or on frosty nights. I definitely recommend this method for any beginner gardener with limited space!

As you can see in the photo above, I planted a few herb containers. I purchased "cell-packs" of pre-grown herbs from my workplace. A more experienced gardener may start herbs from seed, but this was the best option for me. The herbs, with the exception of basil, grew surprisingly well. Basil can be temperamental, as it craves warmth. The parsley, chives, thyme, sage, camomile, catnip, lavender, and marjoram were a great success. This year, I'm hoping to buy coriander (cilantro) before it sells out.

This photo is one of two identical flower planters that I put together! Some people buy pre-made planters, but I love to get creative with the colours and the flowers. Pay close attention to the shade/sun requirements listed on the information cards when you're at he greenhouse. If one flower thrives in low light, and another one needs full sun, they may not work well in the same planter.

My jalapeno plants were fantastic (more likely due to the hot/dry summer, than my skills). Don't be concerned if your green jalapeno's turn partially black while they are still on the plant. I've read various posts about "sun scald," and others that suggest this is a ripening effect. Either way, they are fine to eat.

I bought my tomato plants on sale, late in the season, and didn't use large enough containers. However, they still grew to a decent size and could be used to make fried green tomatoes.

Pick your herbs regularly! It will help the plant to stay healthy/continue producing. Did you know that some herbs can be preserved in the freezer?

Finally, a lovely picture of my camomile. I attempted to dry it for tea, but forgot about it in the cupboard, and it got dusty.  This year, I resolve to make my own camomile tea. 

Hope you enjoyed the post, and good luck with your gardens!

Nacho Fries with Goat Cheese

Quick and Easy Meal!

Nachos are often a go-to "quick" food for those who eat gluten free, as there is a wide selection of GF corn chips. Personally, I'm a bit tired of nachos, and I find that the chips don't really fill me up. 

Recently, I've started making "nacho-fries." Basically, I put the same toppings that I would put onto nachos (olives, hot peppers, bell peppers, green onions, red onions, goat cheese) onto potato fries. I bake the fries until they are brown before adding on the toppings. While "fries" don't exactly sound healthy, you can cut up potatoes yourself, or bake fries that are on the less-greasy side. Just add a ton of healthy toppings!

Learning to Run

It’s been a month since my friend, Andrea, and I decided to train for a 10 mile race this summer. Neither of us are runners, and we have much to learn!

So far, we go to the gym three times per week, stretch/tone before & after our workouts, and jog on the treadmill. Canada is quite icy/slushy in February, and I can’t wait to get outside. However, the treadmill is helping me keep a steady pace until Spring. Having healthy snacks that are high in protein/carbs are necessary to combat my low blood sugar (see the Almond “Bounce” ball review below).

I’ve been consulting a variety of friends who are regular runners, and mixing their expert advice with internet info. Here are two of the most useful (paraphrased) tips so far:

From “M”
- Increase your running time SLOWLY - more so for your joints than for your lung capacity
[I made the mistake of increasing my time from 20 minutes to 45 minutes within two days and suffered a few days of leg pain]

From “Alex”
- His favorite tip: Make an iPod playlist of both fast & slow music. High-energy “exercise” music isn’t ideal for long runs.

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Songs from my own running playlist:

“Get Some” – Lykke Li
“Bigger than Love” – Benjamin Gibbard
“Lisztomania” – Wolfgang Amadeus Pheonix
“The Theory of Relativity” – Stars
“Paper Planes” – M.I.A.
“Dancing Shoes” – Arctic Monkeys
“Black, Black Heart” – David Usher
“Terrible Angels”  – Charlotte Gainsbourg
"Hold Me" - Yoko Ono
“Ne Me Jugez Pas” – Sawt El Atlas
“We Go Together” - Grease
“Rococo” – Arcade Fire
“Cecilia” – Simon & Garfunkel
“Escape Velocity” – Chemical Brothers
“Deny, Deny, Deny” – Joel Plasket
“Maneater” – Nelly Furtado
“Don’t Leave Me (Ne Me Quitte Pas) – “Regina Spektor”
“Seven Nation Army” – The White Stripes
“Day to Day” – Amy Millan
“Numa Numa” - Ozone
“Life in Technicolor II” – Coldplay
“Windsurfing Nation” – Broken Social Scene
“Yer So Bad” – Tom Petty
“Never Give Up on the Good Times” – Spice Girls
“Fanfare Macvara” – Figli Di Madre Ignota
“Finding Something New to Do” – Hellogoodbye
“She Wolf” – Shakira
“Magdalena” – Brandon Flowers
“Straight to Hell” – Lily Allen Ft. Mick Jones
“Cemetery Gates” – The Smiths
“4 Minutes” - Madonna
“Move Over” – Janis Joplin
“Zeye Meyel” – Nass Marrakech
“What  You Waiting For” – Gwen Stefani
“Can’t Buy Me Love” – The Beatles
“Never Ever (All Stars Remix)” – All Saints
“Run On” - Moby
“You are a Tourist (The 2 Bears Remix) – Death Cab for Cutie
“Hey Ya” - Outkast
“Heartlines” – Florence and the Machine

"Almond Protein Hit" Bounce Energy Ball

After my run on Monday, I tried an "Almond Protein Hit" Bounce Energy Ball for the first time. It was so good - I've been carrying around the empty wrapper in my bag for four days in order to blog about it!

As I mentioned in my last post, my doctor recommended that I take in more protein and carbs to slow my super-fast digestion. Before this, I'd been suspicious of protein bars (remember the movie Mean Girls? Lindsay Lohan secretly tries to make Rachel McAdams gain weight using protein bars).  However, in moderation, protein bars can be handy and healthy. Each Bounce ball has 12g of protein and 210 calories.

It was delicious! The almond is like a thicker version of peanut butter, as it is mixed with whey protein. Not only does it taste amazing, but it's gluten-free, free of artificial preservatives, and GMO free.

Ingredients:

Almonds, Brown Rice Syrup, Frutrim (Grape Juice, Pear Juice, Brown Rice Starch), Whey Protein Blend (Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Hydrolysate), Rice Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Crisps (Whey Protein Isolate, Tapioca Starch, Calcium Carbonate, Sunflower Lecithin), Brown Rice Flour, Rice Bran, Natural Vanilla Extract, Guar Gum, Sea Salt, Natural Almond Flavour, Mixed Tocopherols. No Artificial Preservatives. Contains: Almods and Products Derived from Milk. May Contain Eggs, Peanuts, Soy, Sesame Seeds, and Tree Nuts.

Only question: Why does it taste like cherries? I was surprised that cherries were not on the ingredient list.

The bars retail at $2.49 - a bit expensive compared to other health bars, but I'm going to purchase one a week until I try MORE flavours!

[A COMMENTER NOTIFIED ME THAT NOT ALL FLAVOURS ARE GLUTEN FREE, SO CHECK THE PACKAGE BEFORE EATING]

- Cashew and Pecan Delight

- Coconut Macadamia Protein Bliss

- Fudgie Walnut Treat

- Peanut Protein Blast

- Spirulina and Ginseng Kick

Learn more about Bounce products at: http://www.bouncefoods.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6&Itemid=7

A Little Bit MORE Healthy

My last blog post was over a year ago. I logged on for the first time in a long time and wondered "why am I not doing this any more?" The page had over 100 views last month from strangers who stumbled across it - so I may as well post something new.


I've tried many new gluten-free products that I can't wait to review, but I am  also blogging about my new quest to be a "little bit" more healthy - RUNNING!

In addition to celiac disease, I've been diagnosed with hypoglycaemia  (which means that I have to pay close attention to the sugars in my diet because my body processes them too quickly). This includes eating complex carbohydrates and protein, which made me think "That's what runners eat, I should start running." This summer, my friend and I will be running a TEN MILE race, and I will be blogging about the training/diet involved as someone with  health restraints. 

Shampoo Review!

My first blog post was about an amazing sea-salt based shampoo called "Big" by Lush soaps. It's only downfall is the price; $24.95 a tub, and the fact that it totals over $30 with shipping costs included.

So, I went in search of a product that could match the power of Lush's sea-salt mixture. Though I haven't found anything comparable, and I'm seriously considering making shampoo by hand, "Nude - Volumizing Shampoo" by Down Under Naturals is a decent replacement for now!

"Fragrance Free Daily Shampoo" - J/A/S/O/N

The first Lush replacement that I tried was "Fragrance Free Daily Shampoo"  (~$8 for 473ml) by the brand J/A/S/O/N. A few months ago, I reviewed their hairspray, which worked well for an all-natural product. Their shampoo is, "free of parabens, harsh chemicals, dyes...perfect for all hair types." But, not perfect for my hair. Imagine putting laundry detergent on your hair. It didn't lather well, and left a greasy residue. Yet, this product may be beneficial to those with dry hair (if any of you dry-haired people want the rest of my bottle, let me know).

On the plus side, this is the ingredient list:

Water, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Cocamidopropyl Bentaine, Sodium Laurel Sulfoacetate, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Leaf Extract, Sage Leaf Extract, Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract, Guar Hydropropyltrimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Provitamin B5, Lauryl Glucoside, Stearyl Citrate, Sodium Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate

"Nude Volumizing Shampoo" - Down Under Naturals

The "Nude" line of hair care products by Down Under Naturals is impressive, cheap ($4 for 325ml), and 98% plant-derived. The volumizing shampoo is, "Free from parabens, sulfates, phosphates, DEA, Phthalates." The website describes WHY it is important to be free of these potentially harmful ingredients in the "Get the Facts" section.

"Nude" uses, "certified organic botanicals..and biodegradeable ingredients." As a consumer, it is necessary to read this carefully - these terms don't necessarily mean that EVERY botanical/ingredient fits these descriptions, only that some do. Yet, compared with J/A/S/O/N's alternative, "Nude" successfully cleans my hair without coating it in grease.

Ingredients

Water, Certified Organic Botanicals/Extracts: Soybean Protein, Black Tea Extract, Nettle Extract

Bamboo Extract, Sodium Methyl 2 Sulfolaurate, Disodium 2 Sulfolaurate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycol Distearate, Coco Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Glyceryl Stearate, Kaolin, Glycerin, Provitamin B5, Parfum, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Polyquaternium 10, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid

Many other ingredients are similar to those in J/A/S/O/N's product, and though they appear slightly-less-natural, it does work better!

Chemists, provide feedback, why does "Nude" work better than "Fragrance Free Daily Shampoo"?

Arbonne Goes Green

Many of the leading catalogue/consultant based beauty product lines have not taken steps to use healthier ingredients, and do not demonstrate care for the environment - Arbonne is becoming an exception. Arbonne consultant, June Hart, heard about my blog, and provided me samples and information about the company. I was surprised to learn that Arbonne was going green! Here is what I discovered:

- All Arbonne products are vegan, and therefore contain no animal byproducts, and are not tested on animals.
- Though not all products are gluten free, the company is willing to provide ingredient sources and allergy information when asked.
- They steer clear of formaldehyde and many petroleum-based products.
- Their packaging contains "only renewable resources," and they are working to decrease packaging size - Other efforts include recycling at distribution facilities and using soy-based ink.


The products featured below are NOT all gluten-free, but are some of June's top-selling products:


Arbonne has a selection of skincare products that promote tighter, youthful, and healthy skin.

The RE Advanced sample-set includes: Facial Cleanser, Regenerating Toner, Renewal Serum, Corrective Eye Creme, Restorative Day Creme and Night Repair Creme.

Revelage serves to brighten skin, this sample-set includes: On-Target Brightening, Nighttime Brightening, Brightening Hand Creme, and Brightening Face Creme.

I sampled the FC5 Swiss Cleanser/Creme set. The Hydrating Cleanser + Freshner contains wheat straw (gluten), and the Day Lotion caused a slight break-out. But the Moisturizing Night Creme was fantastic(!) and does not appear to contain gluten. It made my face quite smooth, and uses many natural ingredients including: olive, orange, clover, sandalwood, mango, lemon, lime, grapefruit, cucumber, safflower, sunflower, and ginger (among other not-as-natural ingredients).



If you are gluten free (or have other allergies), I suggest calling the company before using any of these products, as the sheer number of ingredients could contain hidden allergens. As Arbonne continues down the road of "going green," it would be great to see either a line of specifically gluten free products, or allergy labelling on products. Though Arbonne's skin care products retail for roughly $50 each, some of their other products (the Clear Advantage Line, Shampoo, Conditioner & Cosmetics) may be more affordable for students. It is important to support the companies that are taking steps to remove harmful ingredients - over the companies that are not!

For more information, or to purchase a product you can contact June Hart (or any other Arbonne Consultant)

J/A/S/O/N Pure Natural & Organic Hair Spray

Having thin hair, I've usually relied on aerosol sprays because they typically work better than non-aerosals. I know, not good for the environment, right? Not to mention they are comprised of synthetic chemicals and are highly flammable. Probably not a good thing to accidentally breathe in, or get on my skin... So, I went in search of healthier options.

First, I tried Herbal Essences' non-aerosal spray in the "Lily Bliss" fragrance. Though it is cheap, contains fewer chemical ingredients, and includes"cactus flower extract," it did not work very well and actually flattened my hair.

Next, I purchased "Thin to Thick," an all natural and organic hair spray produced by J/A/S/O/N Natural Products. Surprisingly, it does give my hair a bit more volume and succeeds in holding it in place. Though it does not quite work as well as an aerosol spray, it is a less toxic option, as all ingredients are naturally occurring.

Ingredients: Purified water, SD Alcohol 40-B, Methacryloyl ethyl betaine/acrylates copolymer, Polysorbate 20, Acetamide MEA, Glycoproteins, Biotin (vitamin H), Retinyl palmitate (vitamin A), Panthenol (vitamin B5), Green Tea leaf extract, Aloe vera leaf juice, Matricaria flower extract, Glycerin, Silicone quaternium-8, Sodium benzonate, Potassium sorbate, Fragrance oil blend (product appears to be gluten free)

As stated on their website, J/A/S/O/N avoids using, "animal by-products, synthetic colors or fragrance, and harmful chemicals." Thin to Thick hair spray retails for roughly $8.99 CDN and can be found in various supermarkets and health stores.

Thrift Store Style

Shopping secondhand is something that I consider "healthy". I love the challenge of finding unique items that fit my personal style - for extremely low prices. For instance, I've found a red Le Chateau jacket for $9.99, a pair of orange suede boots (worth over $100) for $6.99, and two super bright 1970s dresses.   Here are some of my favorite purchases from garage sales, clothes swaps, and thrift stores:

The last photo here is of a blanket given to me by a stranger on a plane. I was cold on a flight from Rome to Toronto, and a very nice Lebanese/Iraqi man insisted that I take this blanket. All secondhand items have a story - I encourage you to donate what you no longer wear and find some used treasures!

Cereal Review: Nature's Path "Crunchy Vanilla Sunrise" and EnjoyLife "Granola Very Berry Crunch"

Most breakfast cereals contain either wheat, barley, oats or rye - which are also the four sources of gluten. Even seemingly safe cereals, such as Corn Pops, use barley malt.  Here is a review of two gluten-free cereals that I eat often, and they're healthy too!

Nature's Path Organic's Crunchy Vanilla Sunrise is made without any preservatives, and is certified organic. The ingredients used are said to create, "Less soil erosion, less groundwater pollution, and improved farm biodiversity."  Nature's Path recently reduced the size of their packaging to save cardboard - yet the box still contains 300g of cereal! Crunchy Vanilla Sunrise is delicious. The vanilla flavour is not overpowering, and the mixture of gluten free grains create a unique taste.

INGREDIENTS: Whole corn meal*, evaporated cane juice*, brown rice flour*, yellow corn flour*, inulin*, quinoa puffs*, flax seeds*, natural vanilla flavor, buckwheat flour*, quinoa*, sea salt, amaranth*, molasses*, tocopherols (natural vitamin E). *Organic. Produced in a facility that uses peanuts, tree nuts or soy.

EnjoyLife's Very Berry Crunch mimics oat granola, but it is made primarily from brown rice flakes.  Though it is sold in a small bag, the cereal is very dense (365g) - which is 65 g more than Crunchy Vanilla Sunrise. Along with gluten, it is free of dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, soy, fish, shellfish, sulphites, sesame and mustard (I didn't know that mustard could be an allergy until I read this). 

Very Berry Crunch is FULL of vitamins and minerals (ie: 35% of your daily iron intake, 20% of your daily magnesium intake). The dried strawberries add flavour, yet this cereal is definitely better with real fruit added. I recommend using plain unsweetened yogurt and blueberries.

INGREDIENTS: Brown Rice Flakes, Brown Rice Syrup, Evaporated Cane Juice, Rice Bran, Rice Crisps (Rice Flour, Rice Bran, Raisin Juice Concentrate, Honey, Salt), Water, Freeze-Dried Raspberries* and Strawberries*, Expeller-Pressed Vegetable Oil (Safflower Oil and/or Sunflower Oil), Natural Strawberry Flavor, Citric Acid, Ground Flaxseed, Rosemary Extract

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Both cereals are sold for around $6.99 each. 

If you are looking for the best natural and delicious cereal, choose Crunchy Vanilla Sunrise. But, if you are looking for something that is natural, AND full of vitamins and minerals, try Very Berry Crunch.

* Avoid Glutino brand cereals, they taste like chemicals.