I had to literally laugh out loud the other day when watching a 5 Hour Energy commercial. It is pathetic that our lives have exhausted us to the point that we have to reach for an energy drink just to get through a "typical" day. I really can't remember a time that I had more energy than my kids. I don't know why I need to ingest a bunch of chemicals, dyes, and caffeine in order to accomplish this feat. What's scary is the risk associated with these type of "uppers".
The FDA only loosely monitors these products. The amount of caffeine in each serving is well above any recommended dose and the consumer is often ill-informed (or not at all) of the serving amount. Anything ending in "-ose" is recognized by your body as sugar, and should be avoided like the plague. Check the label on your favorite energy drinks, bet you anything there's a handful of ingredients with the suffix "-ose". Even if the label says there are no grams of sugar added, your brain is interpreting those ingredients otherwise. The other ingredients such as taurine, guarana, and inositol are highly deceptive. They camoflague themselves as healthy vitamins or amino acids, when really they are buffed up, perveted versions generated by people in white lab coats. Even the "vitamins" that are placed in the drinks are so synthetic your that body doesn't know what it's receiving--and flushes it (and any actual nutrients you might have taken in from other sources) out quicker than Pamela Anderson's marriages.
These drinks are diuretics and it is easy to become incredibly dehydrated when drinking them. This makes them highly dangerous for anyone attempting to utilize them to get through a workout. I have had clients and friends who have been informed, by their doc, that their liver looks like it belongs to that of a lifelong alcoholic. The scary thing is that the majority of individuals I've heard this from don't even drink! It was all because of their addiction to energy drinks. And yes, they are highly addictive. They mess with your body's natural biorhythm and can cause severe trouble sleeping or the ability to function properly without one (or five) in your system.
We all have busy times in our lives, but it is important to not consistently be at a point where you can barely function or keep your eyes open. Instead of reaching for an energy drink, perhaps you're dehydrated and need to be reaching for some H2O. The importance of water and your health can be found here. Maybe you just need a nap. There's no shame in it. Sometimes your body needs that 20-minutes-to-an-hour, midday recharge; especially, if you are embracing a rigorous exercise program. It is easy to forget that rest days are a part of training too. If you absolutely have to find some energy and you're properly hydrated (at least half of your body weight in ounces each day) and a nap isn't a feasible option, have some green tea, orange juice, healthy complex carbs (berries, green leafy veggies, brown rice, etc.), chia seeds, or even a coffee. Anything (well, almost anything- steer clear of the soft drinks, too) is better than flooding your body with all of that junk.
If you are having to reach for an energy drink just to get through a workout or workday, perhaps a proper evalution of one's life choices and priorities is more imperative than anything else. Are there unnecessary items filling your schedule? Is your self-made to-do list longer than your arm? Are you too prideful to ask for help when you could? Do Bobby and Susie really need to be involved in 3 different sports/art/musical activities? Does your house really need to look like the Queen of England is due for a visit? We all have things we HAVE to do. More often than not, however, we opt to fill our lives with things that are not necessary and are not helping to nourish any meaningful aspect of our lives. Isn't your health more important than dusting the baseboards each day or staying late to catch up on "busy-work"? Because as Count Rugen so adequately informed us in "The Princess Bride", "if you haven't got your health, you haven't got anything."
So quit with all the Rockstars, 5-hour Energies, and Monsters. Because truly they are monstrous to your health. You don't need them; you're better than that!
Remember, I'm always listening.
In Health & Strength,
Laurel
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia!
As consumers, we are constantly on the look-out for that next great product that is going to solve all of our problems. When it comes to our health and dietary needs, the shelves boast no shortage of possibilities. The "newest" fad is actually probably older than dirt and can easily be found while surfing through late night infomercials. Although, the Chia Pet probably wasn't designed for the purposes of ingestion.
Chia seeds are one of the lastest additions to the coined phrase, "superfoods". Short of aiding humans in the ability to take off in flight, there's not much this tiny little seed doesn't do. Help to lose weight? You betcha. Provide a high-caliber fuel source for athletes? You got it. Boast a low glycemic index? Sure thing. Help prevent and control diabetes? Absolutely. Provide a healthy balance of essential fats, protein, fiber, antixodants, and complex carbohydrates? Yes, sir. Curb hunger and provide sustainable energy in a healthy manner? Why, of course!
See the Aztecs, Mayans, and the Tarahumara were really on to something. The chia seed was/is considered a major component in these cultures' diets. Like cows to residents of India, or cats to the Egyptians, chia seeds hold a sacred place within these civilizations. And for good reason.
Here's the low-down on the break-down of chia seeds:
Each tiny seed packs an enourmous amount of fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. So you can cut back on all those Fiber One, protein bars (that aren't good for you anyways...) and fish oil pills you've been ingesting.
They're tasteless and can easily be thrown into just about anything. Toss 'em on your yougurt with some berries and nuts to make a healthy parfait; pour a handful in your smoothies or protein shakes; sprinkle some in place of croutons on your salads; use them as "breading" on top of fish or chicken; add to your morning oatmeal or granola; or sneak some into your green tea. When heated in liquid, they form a gelatanous consistency--great for use as a thickening agent in soups or gravies. Incorporating just a teaspoon or so a day will drastically benefit your overall health and stamina.
Many health food and grocery stores are jumping on the chia wagon. If, however, there isn't a supply near you, a great source, for not only the product but other valuable information, can be found here. And don't worry, the price may be offensive at first- until you realize that bag is going to last you a loooong time.
Hope this aids in fueling you for all your health & fitness endeavors. Never settle for less than your full potential. This is just a simple tool to help you tap into it.
Remember, I'm always listening!
In Health & Strength,
Laurel
Chia seeds are one of the lastest additions to the coined phrase, "superfoods". Short of aiding humans in the ability to take off in flight, there's not much this tiny little seed doesn't do. Help to lose weight? You betcha. Provide a high-caliber fuel source for athletes? You got it. Boast a low glycemic index? Sure thing. Help prevent and control diabetes? Absolutely. Provide a healthy balance of essential fats, protein, fiber, antixodants, and complex carbohydrates? Yes, sir. Curb hunger and provide sustainable energy in a healthy manner? Why, of course!
See the Aztecs, Mayans, and the Tarahumara were really on to something. The chia seed was/is considered a major component in these cultures' diets. Like cows to residents of India, or cats to the Egyptians, chia seeds hold a sacred place within these civilizations. And for good reason.
Here's the low-down on the break-down of chia seeds:
Each tiny seed packs an enourmous amount of fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. So you can cut back on all those Fiber One, protein bars (that aren't good for you anyways...) and fish oil pills you've been ingesting.
They're tasteless and can easily be thrown into just about anything. Toss 'em on your yougurt with some berries and nuts to make a healthy parfait; pour a handful in your smoothies or protein shakes; sprinkle some in place of croutons on your salads; use them as "breading" on top of fish or chicken; add to your morning oatmeal or granola; or sneak some into your green tea. When heated in liquid, they form a gelatanous consistency--great for use as a thickening agent in soups or gravies. Incorporating just a teaspoon or so a day will drastically benefit your overall health and stamina.
Many health food and grocery stores are jumping on the chia wagon. If, however, there isn't a supply near you, a great source, for not only the product but other valuable information, can be found here. And don't worry, the price may be offensive at first- until you realize that bag is going to last you a loooong time.
Hope this aids in fueling you for all your health & fitness endeavors. Never settle for less than your full potential. This is just a simple tool to help you tap into it.
Remember, I'm always listening!
In Health & Strength,
Laurel
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Looks Gross; Tastes Great!
Recovery Protein Shake
Ingredients:
1/2-3/4 (depending on taste preference and caloric needs) Cup frozen or fresh berries (organic is best)
1 Generous handful of spinach
1/2 Banana
1 Scoop Jay Robb Strawberry Whey Protein Powder
1 Scoop of the Ultimate Meal
1/4 Cup of Chia seeds
1/4 Rice, Almond, or Cow's Milk
2-4 Ice cubes
Blend and Enjoy!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Are you intolerant?
What is gluten?
noun /ˈglo͞otn/
1. A substance present in cereal grains, esp. wheat, that is responsible for the elastic texture of dough. A mixture of two proteins, it causes illness in people with celiac disease.
I have been hesitant for awhile to write this post. My reasoning, now that I think about it, is silly. I was fearful that it would be viewed like I was pushing my allergies onto my readers. The whole "misery loves company", thing. I don't want to place thoughts in your head or unwarranted concerns. I do, however, want to educate you so that you can make an educated decision as to what is best for you and your body. It was an eye-opening moment for me and one that I wish would have occurred much earlier in life. My hope is that this post helps someone out there in cyberspace in the same way the increase of knowledge on the subject helped me.
I discovered several years ago that I am highly intolerant to gluten. I really didn't want to believe it at first because I LOVED bread. I had even recently required a bread maker and was enjoying baking homemade "health-nut" bread to have toast for breakfast and sandwiches for lunch. I couldn't figure out why I had a headache every day since middle school (some days much worse than others) or why I had no energy to play with my kids and why I suffered from miserable tummy issues. There was also a dark period where looking back I realized I was drastically depressed. This was not a fun time in my life, but because I had let it get so bad, it was becoming evident to my husband. He came home one day talking about an article he'd read discussing a woman who had symptoms that mirrored mine. She discovered she was allergic to gluten. So I went on a research binge and found out everything I could about this new term. After cutting it out of my life for a couple weeks, I had lost 7 pounds, my energy was through the roof and the headaches and tummy problems that had accompanied me since high school were gone! I had gotten so used to waking up with a slight headache, I didn't even remember what it felt like not to have one. It was nothing short of miraculous.
It's frustrating to know that I'm a diseased ridden individual, but knowing that I suffer from Celiac's disease aids me in making decisions that can drastically increase my way of life.
Celiac's disease is an immune disease causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is ingested. As mentioned in the above definition, gluten is a protein that is commonly found in wheat, barley and rye. Most flours contain gluten; as do several vitamins and nutritional supplements/protein shakes.
It is estimated that more than 2 million Americans suffer from Celiac's disease. Unfortunately, a huge portion of that do not even realize it and have accepted their way of life as normal. The results of untreated Celiac's disease can result in severe digestive issues, anemia, infertility, Osteoporosis or simply weak and brittle bones, sensitive skin or even rashes. Some cancers carry a much higher percentage rate possibility in those with a gluten intolerance.
Symptoms of the disease vary but often include one or more of the following:
Headaches/Migraines
Stomach discomfort
Excess gas/bloating
Chronic diarrhea
Chronic fatigue
Inflamed and unnecessarily sore muscles
Mood changes/swings/depression
Weight loss/gain
Itchy rash often accompanied by blisters
Celiac disease can be difficult to accurately diagnose. Several of the symptoms mirror Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Irritable Bowel Syndrome and even Crohn's disease. Many with celiac disease may go undiagnosed and untreated for years. Even more never get diagnosed. If you or your doctor suspects you have celiac disease, a blood test should be performed. If this is the case, it is imperative to remain on your regular diet prior the test. If not, the results could be inaccurate.
Because the tests are often inconclusive, several Americans are taking matters into their own hands and opting for a Gluten-free diet to determine if their symptoms dissipate. Several regular grocery stores and common food items are now embracing the gluten-free crusade. Decades ago, if one had Celiac's disease they were forced to miss out on several traditional or favorite foods. Now several noodles and soups are made with rice flour and lend to an almost normal menu. Pizza chains are now catching on that their "high gluten" dough segments their marketing demographic and they are beginning to introduce gluten-free crust. Most Olive Gardens now carry gluten-free penne pasta noodles. Several other restaurants notify customers of their gluten-free options. If there was ever a time to be allergic to gluten, now is it!
If you suspect you have a couple of the symptoms associated with a gluten intolerance either set up an appointment to have it checked out or even try to eliminate gluten foods for just a week and see if your body doesn't react in a positive manner. It is a difficult adjustment, but for 2 million of us, it is one we should embrace so that life can fully be embraced. If you have any questions, I would love to hear from you! Just because the word “disease” is used doesn’t mean it can’t be treated or managed. It just takes some work and understand you’re not in the battle alone.
I leave you with an overwhelming list and information regarding "unsafe" gluten ingredients in our food. If you are cooking with pure wholesome foods, the majority of these ingredients will never be found in your home- just sayin'. Most of these ingredients are not "Laurel-approved", anyways. So, cutting them out even if you don't have Celiac's disease would be most pleasing...
Abyssinian Hard (Wheat triticum durum)
Alcohol (Spirits - Specific Types)
Amp-Isostearoyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Atta Flour
Barley Grass (can contain seeds)
Barley Hordeum vulgare
Barley Malt
Beer (most contain barley or wheat)
Bleached Flour
Bran
Bread Flour
Brewer's Yeast
Brown Flour
Bulgur (Bulgar Wheat/Nuts)
Bulgur Wheat
Cereal Binding
Chilton
Club Wheat (Triticum aestivum subspecies compactum)
Common Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Cookie Crumbs
Cookie Dough
Cookie Dough Pieces
Couscous
Criped Rice
Dinkle (Spelt)
Disodium Wheatgermamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate
Durum wheat (Triticum durum)
Edible Coatings
Edible Films
Edible Starch
Einkorn (Triticum monococcum)
Emmer (Triticum dicoccon)
Enriched Bleached Flour
Enriched Bleached Wheat Flour
Enriched Flour
Farina
Farina Graham
Farro
Filler
Flour (normally this is wheat)
Fu (dried wheat gluten)
Germ
Graham Flour
Granary Flour
Groats (barley, wheat)
Hard Wheat
Heeng
Hing
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol
Hydrolyzed Wheat Starch
Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Kamut (pasta wheat)
Kecap Manis (Soy Sauce)
Ketjap Manis (Soy Sauce)
Kluski Pasta
Maida (Indian wheat flour)
Malt
Malted Barley Flour
Malted Milk
Malt Extract
Malt Syrup
Malt Flavoring
Malt Vinegar
Macha Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Matza
Matzah
Matzo
Matzo Semolina
Mringue
Meripro 711
Mir
Nishasta
Oriental Wheat (Triticum turanicum)
Orzo Pasta
Pasta
Pearl Barley
Persian Wheat (Triticum carthlicum)
Perungayam
Poulard Wheat (Triticum turgidum)
Polish Wheat (Triticum polonicum)
Rice Malt (if barley or Koji are used)
Roux
Rusk
Rye
Seitan
Semolina
Semolina Triticum
Shot Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Small Spelt
Spirits (Specific Types)
Spelt (Triticum spelta)
Sprouted Wheat or Barley
Stearyldimoniumhydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Strong Flour
Suet in Packets
Tabbouleh
Tabouli
Teriyaki Sauce
Timopheevi Wheat (Triticum timopheevii)
Triticale X triticosecale
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Flour Lipids
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil
Udon (wheat noodles)
Unbleached Flour
Vavilovi Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Vital Wheat Gluten
Wheat, Abyssinian Hard triticum durum
Wheat amino acids
Wheat Bran Extract
Wheat, Bulgur
Wheat Durum Triticum
Wheat Germ Extract
Wheat Germ Glycerides
Wheat Germ Oil
Wheat Germamidopropyldimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Wheat Grass (can contain seeds)
Wheat Nuts
Wheat Protein
Wheat Triticum aestivum
Wheat Triticum Monococcum
Wheat (Triticum Vulgare) Bran Extract
Whole-meal Flour
Wild Einkorn (Triticum boeotictim)
Wild Emmer (Triticum dicoccoides)
The following items may or may not contain gluten depending on where and how they are made, and it is sometimes necessary to check with the manufacturer to find out:
Artificial Color4
baking powder4
Caramel Color1, 3
Caramel Flavoring1, 3
Clarifying Agents4
Coloring4
Dextrins1,7
Dextrimaltose1,7
Dry Roasted Nuts4
Emulsifiers4
enzymes4
Fat Replacer4
Flavoring6
food Starch1, 4
Food Starch Modified1, 4
Glucose Syrup4
Gravy Cubes4
Ground Spices4
HPP4
HVP4
Hydrolyzed Plant Protein4
Hydrolyzed Protein4
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein4
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate4
Hydroxypropylated Starch4
Maltose4
Miso4
Mixed Tocopherols4
Modified Food Starch1, 4
Modified Starch1, 4
Natural Flavoring6
Natural Flavors6
Natural Juices4
Non-dairy Creamer4
Pregelatinized Starch4
Protein Hydrolysates4
Seafood Analogs4
Seasonings4
Sirimi4
Smoke Flavoring4
Soba Noodles4
Soy Sauce4
Soy Sauce Solids4
Sphingolipids4
Stabilizers4
Starch1, 4
Stock Cubes4
Suet4
Tocopherols4
Vegetable Broth4
Vegetable Gum4
Vegetable Protein4
Vegetable Starch4
vitamins4
Wheat Starch5
•1) If this ingredient is made in North America it is likely to be gluten-free.
•3) The problem with caramel color is it may or may not contain gluten depending on how it is manufactured. In the USA caramel color must conform with the FDA standard of identity from 21CFR CH.1. This statute says: the color additive caramel is the dark-brown liquid or solid material resulting from the carefully controlled heat treatment of the following food-grade carbohydrates: Dextrose (corn sugar), invert sugar, lactose (milk sugar), malt syrup (usually from barley malt), molasses (from cane), starch hydrolysates and fractions thereof (can include wheat), sucrose (cane or beet). Also, acids, alkalis and salts are listed as additives which may be employed to assist the caramelization process.
•4) Can utilize a gluten-containing grain or by-product in the manufacturing process, or as an ingredient.
•5) Most celiac organizations in the USA and Canada do not believe that wheat starch is safe for celiacs. In Europe, however, Codex Alimentarius Quality wheat starch is considered acceptable in the celiac diet by most doctors and celiac organizations. This is a higher quality of wheat starch than is generally available in the USA or Canada.
•6) According to 21 C.F.R. S 101,22(a)(3): [t]he terns natural flavor or natural flavoring means the essential oil, oleoresin, essence or extractive, protein hydrolysate, distillate, or any product of roasting, heating or enzymolysis, which contains the flavoring constituents derived from a spice, fruit or fruit juice, vegetable or vegetable juice, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud, root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof. Whose significant function in food is flavoring rather than nutritional.
•7) Dextrin is an incompletely hydrolyzed starch. It is prepared by dry heating corn, waxy maize, waxy milo, potato, arrowroot, WHEAT, rice, tapioca, or sago starches, or by dry heating the starches after: (1) Treatment with safe and suitable alkalis, acids, or pH control agents and (2) drying the acid or alkali treated starch. (1) Therefore, unless you know the source, you must avoid dextrin.
May 1997 Sprue-Nik News.
(1) Federal Register (4-1-96 Edition) 21CFR Ch.1, Section 184.12277.
(2) Federal Register (4-1-96) 21 CFR. Ch.1, Section 184.1444
Remember, I'm always listening!
In Health & Strength,
Laurel
noun /ˈglo͞otn/
1. A substance present in cereal grains, esp. wheat, that is responsible for the elastic texture of dough. A mixture of two proteins, it causes illness in people with celiac disease.
I have been hesitant for awhile to write this post. My reasoning, now that I think about it, is silly. I was fearful that it would be viewed like I was pushing my allergies onto my readers. The whole "misery loves company", thing. I don't want to place thoughts in your head or unwarranted concerns. I do, however, want to educate you so that you can make an educated decision as to what is best for you and your body. It was an eye-opening moment for me and one that I wish would have occurred much earlier in life. My hope is that this post helps someone out there in cyberspace in the same way the increase of knowledge on the subject helped me.
I discovered several years ago that I am highly intolerant to gluten. I really didn't want to believe it at first because I LOVED bread. I had even recently required a bread maker and was enjoying baking homemade "health-nut" bread to have toast for breakfast and sandwiches for lunch. I couldn't figure out why I had a headache every day since middle school (some days much worse than others) or why I had no energy to play with my kids and why I suffered from miserable tummy issues. There was also a dark period where looking back I realized I was drastically depressed. This was not a fun time in my life, but because I had let it get so bad, it was becoming evident to my husband. He came home one day talking about an article he'd read discussing a woman who had symptoms that mirrored mine. She discovered she was allergic to gluten. So I went on a research binge and found out everything I could about this new term. After cutting it out of my life for a couple weeks, I had lost 7 pounds, my energy was through the roof and the headaches and tummy problems that had accompanied me since high school were gone! I had gotten so used to waking up with a slight headache, I didn't even remember what it felt like not to have one. It was nothing short of miraculous.
It's frustrating to know that I'm a diseased ridden individual, but knowing that I suffer from Celiac's disease aids me in making decisions that can drastically increase my way of life.
Celiac's disease is an immune disease causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is ingested. As mentioned in the above definition, gluten is a protein that is commonly found in wheat, barley and rye. Most flours contain gluten; as do several vitamins and nutritional supplements/protein shakes.
It is estimated that more than 2 million Americans suffer from Celiac's disease. Unfortunately, a huge portion of that do not even realize it and have accepted their way of life as normal. The results of untreated Celiac's disease can result in severe digestive issues, anemia, infertility, Osteoporosis or simply weak and brittle bones, sensitive skin or even rashes. Some cancers carry a much higher percentage rate possibility in those with a gluten intolerance.
Symptoms of the disease vary but often include one or more of the following:
Headaches/Migraines
Stomach discomfort
Excess gas/bloating
Chronic diarrhea
Chronic fatigue
Inflamed and unnecessarily sore muscles
Mood changes/swings/depression
Weight loss/gain
Itchy rash often accompanied by blisters
Celiac disease can be difficult to accurately diagnose. Several of the symptoms mirror Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Irritable Bowel Syndrome and even Crohn's disease. Many with celiac disease may go undiagnosed and untreated for years. Even more never get diagnosed. If you or your doctor suspects you have celiac disease, a blood test should be performed. If this is the case, it is imperative to remain on your regular diet prior the test. If not, the results could be inaccurate.
Because the tests are often inconclusive, several Americans are taking matters into their own hands and opting for a Gluten-free diet to determine if their symptoms dissipate. Several regular grocery stores and common food items are now embracing the gluten-free crusade. Decades ago, if one had Celiac's disease they were forced to miss out on several traditional or favorite foods. Now several noodles and soups are made with rice flour and lend to an almost normal menu. Pizza chains are now catching on that their "high gluten" dough segments their marketing demographic and they are beginning to introduce gluten-free crust. Most Olive Gardens now carry gluten-free penne pasta noodles. Several other restaurants notify customers of their gluten-free options. If there was ever a time to be allergic to gluten, now is it!
If you suspect you have a couple of the symptoms associated with a gluten intolerance either set up an appointment to have it checked out or even try to eliminate gluten foods for just a week and see if your body doesn't react in a positive manner. It is a difficult adjustment, but for 2 million of us, it is one we should embrace so that life can fully be embraced. If you have any questions, I would love to hear from you! Just because the word “disease” is used doesn’t mean it can’t be treated or managed. It just takes some work and understand you’re not in the battle alone.
I leave you with an overwhelming list and information regarding "unsafe" gluten ingredients in our food. If you are cooking with pure wholesome foods, the majority of these ingredients will never be found in your home- just sayin'. Most of these ingredients are not "Laurel-approved", anyways. So, cutting them out even if you don't have Celiac's disease would be most pleasing...
Abyssinian Hard (Wheat triticum durum)
Alcohol (Spirits - Specific Types)
Amp-Isostearoyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Atta Flour
Barley Grass (can contain seeds)
Barley Hordeum vulgare
Barley Malt
Beer (most contain barley or wheat)
Bleached Flour
Bran
Bread Flour
Brewer's Yeast
Brown Flour
Bulgur (Bulgar Wheat/Nuts)
Bulgur Wheat
Cereal Binding
Chilton
Club Wheat (Triticum aestivum subspecies compactum)
Common Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Cookie Crumbs
Cookie Dough
Cookie Dough Pieces
Couscous
Criped Rice
Dinkle (Spelt)
Disodium Wheatgermamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate
Durum wheat (Triticum durum)
Edible Coatings
Edible Films
Edible Starch
Einkorn (Triticum monococcum)
Emmer (Triticum dicoccon)
Enriched Bleached Flour
Enriched Bleached Wheat Flour
Enriched Flour
Farina
Farina Graham
Farro
Filler
Flour (normally this is wheat)
Fu (dried wheat gluten)
Germ
Graham Flour
Granary Flour
Groats (barley, wheat)
Hard Wheat
Heeng
Hing
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol
Hydrolyzed Wheat Starch
Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Kamut (pasta wheat)
Kecap Manis (Soy Sauce)
Ketjap Manis (Soy Sauce)
Kluski Pasta
Maida (Indian wheat flour)
Malt
Malted Barley Flour
Malted Milk
Malt Extract
Malt Syrup
Malt Flavoring
Malt Vinegar
Macha Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Matza
Matzah
Matzo
Matzo Semolina
Mringue
Meripro 711
Mir
Nishasta
Oriental Wheat (Triticum turanicum)
Orzo Pasta
Pasta
Pearl Barley
Persian Wheat (Triticum carthlicum)
Perungayam
Poulard Wheat (Triticum turgidum)
Polish Wheat (Triticum polonicum)
Rice Malt (if barley or Koji are used)
Roux
Rusk
Rye
Seitan
Semolina
Semolina Triticum
Shot Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Small Spelt
Spirits (Specific Types)
Spelt (Triticum spelta)
Sprouted Wheat or Barley
Stearyldimoniumhydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Strong Flour
Suet in Packets
Tabbouleh
Tabouli
Teriyaki Sauce
Timopheevi Wheat (Triticum timopheevii)
Triticale X triticosecale
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Flour Lipids
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil
Udon (wheat noodles)
Unbleached Flour
Vavilovi Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Vital Wheat Gluten
Wheat, Abyssinian Hard triticum durum
Wheat amino acids
Wheat Bran Extract
Wheat, Bulgur
Wheat Durum Triticum
Wheat Germ Extract
Wheat Germ Glycerides
Wheat Germ Oil
Wheat Germamidopropyldimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Wheat Grass (can contain seeds)
Wheat Nuts
Wheat Protein
Wheat Triticum aestivum
Wheat Triticum Monococcum
Wheat (Triticum Vulgare) Bran Extract
Whole-meal Flour
Wild Einkorn (Triticum boeotictim)
Wild Emmer (Triticum dicoccoides)
The following items may or may not contain gluten depending on where and how they are made, and it is sometimes necessary to check with the manufacturer to find out:
Artificial Color4
baking powder4
Caramel Color1, 3
Caramel Flavoring1, 3
Clarifying Agents4
Coloring4
Dextrins1,7
Dextrimaltose1,7
Dry Roasted Nuts4
Emulsifiers4
enzymes4
Fat Replacer4
Flavoring6
food Starch1, 4
Food Starch Modified1, 4
Glucose Syrup4
Gravy Cubes4
Ground Spices4
HPP4
HVP4
Hydrolyzed Plant Protein4
Hydrolyzed Protein4
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein4
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate4
Hydroxypropylated Starch4
Maltose4
Miso4
Mixed Tocopherols4
Modified Food Starch1, 4
Modified Starch1, 4
Natural Flavoring6
Natural Flavors6
Natural Juices4
Non-dairy Creamer4
Pregelatinized Starch4
Protein Hydrolysates4
Seafood Analogs4
Seasonings4
Sirimi4
Smoke Flavoring4
Soba Noodles4
Soy Sauce4
Soy Sauce Solids4
Sphingolipids4
Stabilizers4
Starch1, 4
Stock Cubes4
Suet4
Tocopherols4
Vegetable Broth4
Vegetable Gum4
Vegetable Protein4
Vegetable Starch4
vitamins4
Wheat Starch5
•1) If this ingredient is made in North America it is likely to be gluten-free.
•3) The problem with caramel color is it may or may not contain gluten depending on how it is manufactured. In the USA caramel color must conform with the FDA standard of identity from 21CFR CH.1. This statute says: the color additive caramel is the dark-brown liquid or solid material resulting from the carefully controlled heat treatment of the following food-grade carbohydrates: Dextrose (corn sugar), invert sugar, lactose (milk sugar), malt syrup (usually from barley malt), molasses (from cane), starch hydrolysates and fractions thereof (can include wheat), sucrose (cane or beet). Also, acids, alkalis and salts are listed as additives which may be employed to assist the caramelization process.
•4) Can utilize a gluten-containing grain or by-product in the manufacturing process, or as an ingredient.
•5) Most celiac organizations in the USA and Canada do not believe that wheat starch is safe for celiacs. In Europe, however, Codex Alimentarius Quality wheat starch is considered acceptable in the celiac diet by most doctors and celiac organizations. This is a higher quality of wheat starch than is generally available in the USA or Canada.
•6) According to 21 C.F.R. S 101,22(a)(3): [t]he terns natural flavor or natural flavoring means the essential oil, oleoresin, essence or extractive, protein hydrolysate, distillate, or any product of roasting, heating or enzymolysis, which contains the flavoring constituents derived from a spice, fruit or fruit juice, vegetable or vegetable juice, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud, root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof. Whose significant function in food is flavoring rather than nutritional.
•7) Dextrin is an incompletely hydrolyzed starch. It is prepared by dry heating corn, waxy maize, waxy milo, potato, arrowroot, WHEAT, rice, tapioca, or sago starches, or by dry heating the starches after: (1) Treatment with safe and suitable alkalis, acids, or pH control agents and (2) drying the acid or alkali treated starch. (1) Therefore, unless you know the source, you must avoid dextrin.
May 1997 Sprue-Nik News.
(1) Federal Register (4-1-96 Edition) 21CFR Ch.1, Section 184.12277.
(2) Federal Register (4-1-96) 21 CFR. Ch.1, Section 184.1444
Remember, I'm always listening!
In Health & Strength,
Laurel
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
I'll show you mine if you show me yours!
I'm extending a challenge to you all to show me your fridge! I want to see what you are fueling your bodies with. If you are brave enough, take a snapshot of your daily nourishment and share it with me @ LaurelFitness@gmail.com or find me on Facebook.
If you need help with what's lurking in your arctic cooler, I'd be happy to take you local yokels on a shopping trip.
Anyways, to get things rolling, here's a few pics of what's in my fridge and freezer. Bear in mind, I've got more than just myself to feed. If there's a few "non-Laurel" items in here, that's why. Although, it could just be I'm not perfect and like to indulge sometimes. Hence, the Bolthouse Farms Mochachino protein shake. Yum!
There might be a training session (or two) involved for the winner of the best (or worst) fridge award. So start cleaning out that fridge and get that camera trigger finger ready!
Thanks for letting me into your homes! Can't wait to see some of your guilty pleasures!
Remember I'm always listening (even if you are hiding POP in your fridge)!
In Health & Strength,
Laurel
If you need help with what's lurking in your arctic cooler, I'd be happy to take you local yokels on a shopping trip.
Anyways, to get things rolling, here's a few pics of what's in my fridge and freezer. Bear in mind, I've got more than just myself to feed. If there's a few "non-Laurel" items in here, that's why. Although, it could just be I'm not perfect and like to indulge sometimes. Hence, the Bolthouse Farms Mochachino protein shake. Yum!
There might be a training session (or two) involved for the winner of the best (or worst) fridge award. So start cleaning out that fridge and get that camera trigger finger ready!
Thanks for letting me into your homes! Can't wait to see some of your guilty pleasures!
Remember I'm always listening (even if you are hiding POP in your fridge)!
In Health & Strength,
Laurel
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Don't take the detour!
In this high-tech and fast-paced society that we reside in, it is easy to get swept up in the allure of instant gratification. Don't have time for breakfast? You can "make" Carnations Instant Breakfast- or of course there's always the option of hitting up the Mickey D's drive-thru. Want to watch a movie, but don't want to make the long trek to the video store? You can have DVD's delivered right to your door or even watch a movie instantly online. Not so many decades ago, meals took hours to prepare. Now we can just grab a box from the freezer and pop it in the oven or even better, nuke it in the microwave; as the oven takes too long. I was amazed the other day at the store to find that we can now even by pre-shucked corn. Apparently, the joys of childhood and fighting over who gets to shuck the corn for dinner is overrated and time-consuming. Some things in our society are so fast, they make time go in reverse! With the increase of miracle creams, botox, and plastic surgery, women can turn back time....instantly! Don't get me wrong, there are several of life's little conveniences that I enjoy, but this constant need to have everything instantly can translate to a negative approach to managing your health. Quite often this "instant" mentality carries over into our health and fitness goals. We easily get discouraged because the results are not as fast as a TV dinner. We throw in the towel after a very short period of time because we aren't instantly looking like supermodels or immediately able to lift Campbell's soup filled shopping bags with ease. I want to encourage you today to not take the detour down instant gratification drive. Don't fall prey to the mentality that all your goals and dreams for your health can be attained instantly. Bear in mind this experience is a marathon, not a sprint. While you may feel like those 5, 10, or 50 pounds snuck up on you instantly, the negative habits you picked up that got you there have been around for quite some time. A lot of us have been working most of (if not all) of our lives at being unhealthy. Why would we assume that something that is a lifelong habit could be transformed overnight?! While there are a select few moms who are able to wear their pre-pregnancy jeans out of the hospital, it is not a realistic goal- not to mention, incredibly unfair! It took 9 months for your body to shift and to change, it's going to take a while for your hormones to regulate and to lose the weight.
This is not to say that taking an aggressive, proactive approach to one's eating and exercise is a waste of time. It merely means that one must have an open mind regarding success. Try to focus more on little changes that you are noticing. Don't disregard something that now comes easier to you that used to be a struggle. Accept compliments. This is tough for many people, but accepting a compliment with a smile and thank you- and then placing it in your memory bank- can aid you in a rough patch. If others are noticing changes about you, there must be something to it. Don't be so quick to pass it off without any thought. Maybe shifting your goals slightly is in order. If the task is too daunting and you find yourself getting easily discouraged, a smaller goal may need to be met first. This is the whole, "how do you eat an elephant?" approach: one bite at a time. Baby steps. But, with the success of each baby step, don't be so quick to rush off to the next one without congratulating yourself on reaching that milestone. Don't fall prey to crash diets or latest diet fad. Most new exercise fads are all hype, as well. If we haven't figured out by now how to go to bed overweight and unhealthy and wake up looking like Naomi Cambell, it's not going to happen. What we have discovered is pure wholesome foods in proper portions and an active lifestyle leads to an overall healthy life. It works. Unfortunately, it takes a lot of work and that isn't what we wanna hear. We want the drive-thru weight loss miracle. This is the one body you get. Understanding that the choices you make are lifelong may help you not to be so hurried to get to that ultimate goal. Maybe that ultimate is never attained, does it negate all the positive changes that will be made in the attempt of attaining it? Absolutely not! Keep striving, but for crying out loud, give yourself a pat on the back from time to time!
“Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.” -Greg Anderson
Remember I'm always listening!
In Health & Strength,
Laurel
This is not to say that taking an aggressive, proactive approach to one's eating and exercise is a waste of time. It merely means that one must have an open mind regarding success. Try to focus more on little changes that you are noticing. Don't disregard something that now comes easier to you that used to be a struggle. Accept compliments. This is tough for many people, but accepting a compliment with a smile and thank you- and then placing it in your memory bank- can aid you in a rough patch. If others are noticing changes about you, there must be something to it. Don't be so quick to pass it off without any thought. Maybe shifting your goals slightly is in order. If the task is too daunting and you find yourself getting easily discouraged, a smaller goal may need to be met first. This is the whole, "how do you eat an elephant?" approach: one bite at a time. Baby steps. But, with the success of each baby step, don't be so quick to rush off to the next one without congratulating yourself on reaching that milestone. Don't fall prey to crash diets or latest diet fad. Most new exercise fads are all hype, as well. If we haven't figured out by now how to go to bed overweight and unhealthy and wake up looking like Naomi Cambell, it's not going to happen. What we have discovered is pure wholesome foods in proper portions and an active lifestyle leads to an overall healthy life. It works. Unfortunately, it takes a lot of work and that isn't what we wanna hear. We want the drive-thru weight loss miracle. This is the one body you get. Understanding that the choices you make are lifelong may help you not to be so hurried to get to that ultimate goal. Maybe that ultimate is never attained, does it negate all the positive changes that will be made in the attempt of attaining it? Absolutely not! Keep striving, but for crying out loud, give yourself a pat on the back from time to time!
“Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.” -Greg Anderson
Remember I'm always listening!
In Health & Strength,
Laurel
Monday, July 11, 2011
Muddy Buddy Recap
Most of my blogs offer some sort of knowledge that can be utilized to further your health and fitness journey. This one will veer off the beaten path and hopefully inspire you to find something you love to do regarding your health and fitness journey. For me, that something is mud. Yes, you heard me correctly. I love to play in the mud. Fortunately for me, so do several other weirdos; and they've created several races around that very thing. This weekend I had the pleasure of "competing" in my second Muddy Buddy. This time around, I had a better idea of what to expect. Not having the pre-race butterflies accompanying me as much this go around, I was able to allow myself to soak in the experience. There were several times during the "race" that I even got choked up at what I was witnessing. Don't get me wrong, I still worked my tail off to get to that 
mud pit, but the experience along the way was highly rewarding. There is still some training that is involved to be able to tackle the tough course. There were some unfortunate souls that must've gotten roped into doing it last minute by their buddy and weren't adequately prepared. I witnessed two complete wipe-outs on the bike, and one gal just completely collapse from heat exhaustion. There were medics dispersed along the way and they dealt with the injuries and ailments in a very professional and timely matter. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Let's go back to the beginning....
A lot of the fun of a Muddy Buddy is the memories that get shared with your fellow buddy. I get the pleasure of crawling through the mud with my best bud. The night before the race is filled with tons of laughs and way too many inside jokes. We stay up too late and eat a bunch of junk that doesn't normally fit into Laurel's vocabulary or diet. It's like a middle school slumberparty. If you are entertaining the idea of doing a competition where you will be couped up with someone in a hotel room (or for us, a generous neighbor's condo), I highly recommend you select someone where the time before the race is half the fun. Translation: Someone you wouldn't mind being in prison with.
The morning of the race is filled with some anxiety, more laughing over sleepy-eyed mistakes and a lot of hustling around to get out the door, "on time"- it's one of my many endearing qualities: I will literally be late to my own funeral. Upon arrival we meet up with our photographer (a big "thank you" shout out to my Buddy's mom who made the trek early that morning to capture us in our element!) and get several snapshots that show off our shirts we stayed up late
and just how squeaky clean we are. Multiple nervous trips to the porta-potties are then made (a whole 'nother blog could be written ab't porta potties at a race- I'll spare you the details). Numbers must be installed on our bike, helmets and shirts. A timing chip is then installed in our laces. But since we are not in the "competitive wave" this last detail is rather pointless to me.
It is then time to start moseying to the starting line. We are in wave eight. Two waves have already gone; thanks to my punctuality. Several more pictures are taken and more laughs are had. Mostly, it's the people watching that aids in passing the time until our wave is up. Nowhere else can you find what looks to be a Halloween party in the middle of July. There are guys wearing tutus and thongs (outside shorts- thank goodness!), girls in ties, multiple people in boas, leis and fishnets. Bikes are all decked out, too. One creative bike I saw was the Trojan Horse; the buddies were Roman soldiers. The names for several duos are displayed proudly on shirts, arms, legs, shorts, etc. Emilio Estevez never really goes away- people are stealing his fame for a Muddy Buddy name. Other fun ones usually involve mud or racing in some way or another: "The Mud Studs", "This Mud's For You", "Sole Sisters", "Brothers from Another Mudder" and "Sister Sludge" are a few of the memorable ones. Pretty soon it was time for the "Bandana Babes" to take to the trail. The buddy biking starts off first. So I was left to wait for a minute until it was time for the running buddies in my wave to go. Next thing I know, the time for sight-seeing was over and my legs were pumping away.
The course is 6 miles long and approximately every mile you switch off running or biking with your buddy. The first leg was running for me and I was feeling pretty good until the outside of my knee starting hurting a touch. I began to panic. Flashbacks of the darkworld of injury flooded my mind. Then I remembered, I wasn't wearing the right shoes. I had worn my old Mizuno's so that I didn't have to stress upon the mucky assault that was going to be had on them when I danced with dirt at the finish. Phew! My legs weren't failing me; just my shoes. Along the way I caught up to my buddy who was tackling the tough trail on the bike. We shouted encouragements to each other and next thing I know, I'm scaling up and over a wall and dealing with cargo nets. Then, I have to find our bike that my buddy left for me amongst the sea of two wheels. Once I locate it, I'm off for my first bike leg. It is awesome. I LOVE trail riding. It is so beautiful and the downhill parts that whip my pigtails back are priceless. This also gives me a chance to see some of the costumes I missed. "Love your fishnets!" I call out as I pass a girl running sporting the neon pink panty-hose.
I come up to the second obstacle and drop the bike someplace that I hope is conspicuous enough for my buddy to find and "crawl" through the (less than thrilling) frog maze. After a pit stop at the water station I'm off for another round of running. A gal who looks like she stole Richard Simmons' wardrobe has been neck and neck with me the whole way. She is starting to slow her pace. My inner trainer comes out and I give her a little pep talk and she gets back into gear. About a quarter mile into this leg, I notice a leopard print thong that was thoughtlessly discarded by its owner strewn on the side of the road. "This is hilarious," I think to myself. Other road races, I'm running through puke and spit. Here, it's thongs and wigs.
Just as I was thoroughly enjoying myself, I witness a girl completely wipe-out going down the hill on the bike. I sprint towards her and see that her quad is completely stuck between the top tube (the bar leading from the handle bars to the seat) and the handlebars of her bike. She's covered in scrapes and is shaking uncontrollably. All thoughts of the race and the thongs it boasts are a distant memory and my first aid training kicks in. I get her leg dislodged and get her somewhat off the path, away from the other bikers. Another runner comes and aids in the diagnosis. The girl is obviously embarrassed and just wants to get going again (us Muddy Buddy folks are tough!). After another once-over and some water, we let her head back on the trail. As she is pedaling out of sight, and I'm getting back in my stride, another biker just completely falls off her bike into the tall grass. I race up to her as she's getting back on. "I'm fine, just embarrassed," she quips. I'm growing greatly concerned for my buddy who is currently biking this very part of the course.
Up ahead a little farther, I am called back by a fellow mudder and asked if I could help get her up the hill. I respond with a "sure" and, upon second glance, I notice this awesome woman is doing this course with the absence of one of her legs. She just needs a little help with getting the bike up the hills. The rest she did completely on her own and the use of a cane during the running parts. I told her she was my new hero and she is an inspiration to all of us. She smiled humbly and thanked me for the push. I saw her again at the obstacle when she was greeted by her boyfriend who was full of amazing motivational words for a girl he clearly adored. I saw her again making her way towards the finish during one of her running portions of the course. It was awe-inspiring. That experience made the whole race for me. All I could think was, "no excuses". She will be what I draw upon the next time I don't want to head out the door for a run. I'll do it anyways because: "no excuses".
The next obstacle was an inflatable contraption that proved difficult for many of us to get over. The amount of teamwork that went into getting everyone over this obstacle was another awesome experience. During other races, it's "every man (or woman) for themself". At Muddy Buddy, there is a sense of "we're all in this together". Perhaps, it's a "misery loves company" type of thing. But, it feels like something more than that. Maybe I'm getting too poetic, but there is definitely an ambience that cannot be duplicated anywhere else.
After making sure my buddy made it safely to that obstacle, and retrieving our bike from her, it was time to get back on the trail- but not before
hitting up another water station (loved the Muddy Buddy volunteers! Those water stations kept me going!). While I was getting my H20 in me, several people started calling for the medic. There was an assembly line of voices calling back for help. Every racer stopped what they were doing and made sure the next person back was getting someone else's attention. The medic truck was right near the water station, and it loaded up and headed towards the injured party. Everyone went back to making their way towards the mud pit. After biking for a little bit, I came upon the poor lass who was suffering from heat stroke. She was in good hands. I was amazed to see how far away this girl was from where the medics had to come. Several people were involved in ensuring she was taken care of. Have I mentioned how much I love the team spirit of Muddy Buddy?!
This leg of the trail was treacherous. The mountains (they were definitely mountains!) were full of big rocks, roots and sand. The sand is what made it so tough. You couldn't find a line in which to stay to make your way to the top. Everyone in front of me was hopping off their bikes. I got cocky (yes, it does happen) and attempted to ride through it. I made it ab't halfway up, when I felt my bike start to fishtail. After seeing so many wipeouts, I decided not to be the one that needed to have an assembly line of people getting the medics' attention. Begrudgingly, I gave in and hopped off the bike. I ran (if I couldn't bike, I was gonna run!) it up the rest of the way. The downhill was very steep and the turns were narrow. There was a point at which I saw my life flash before my eyes. It was a good life, so I wasn't too upset. It did enter my head that I hadn't run a marathon, gone to Paris, been in a massive food fight or gone skydiving yet. So, it wasn't my time to go. After not dying, the trail started to even out a little and I was nearing the last leg of my journey. I made it to the big slide, dropped the bike, and attempted to leave it right in front so my buddy could find it; but a volunteer who took his position a little too seriously yelled at me to move it past the sign. I only hope she found it easily this go around. I got in line for the slide, and a chick with a gorgeous Australian accent was next to me as we made our way up the "ladder" to the slide. Upon looking down, we both had a slight bit of panic. The slide resembles more of a roller-coaster than what it claimed to be. I held hands with a complete stranger as we braved our way down the slide. We both complained of butt burns and wedgies; then parted ways. Another pit stop, and then it was time for the last leg of the race.
I was feeling great. I was in a euphoric mood. I don't know if it was from heat stroke or all the neat experiences I had had along the way, but the last bit of the course was over way too quickly. I was enjoying all of the conversations around me and the last little bit of people watching. I could over hear compliments of "I like your wig", "digging the coconuts", "your shirt is so cute", etc. all around me. I got kind of melancholy as I knew the end was near. A whole year awaits until I get to experience this again. Before I got too sentimental over it ending, I recalled I still had the mud pit! I made my way to the bike drop and waited for my buddy. I was worried because some of the hills in the beginning of this last leg were kinda scary. I was not alone. Several other running buddies were waiting for their biking counterpart. Conversations ranged from where they were eating afterwards to who made their costumes. The elation that shown on all the running buddies' faces as their bike buddy made it around the bend was the same. It was like seeing a long lost friend get off an airplane....or when your name is called after a long wait at a restaurant. Pretty soon, I got to join in the jubilation as my buddy made her way down that last hill. We dropped the bike and headed towards the finish. A rope attached to a tall wall and a slew of tires were all that was between us and that glorious mud. We put our arm muscles to the test and climbed up the wall (I won't mention how terrified my buddy was of the height- oops!), and then tiptoed our way (in perfect sync) through the tires like professional NFL players. Finally, the whole reason why we do this nonsense...the mud pit! We "dove" right in. Our bellies grazing the mucky floor as the slimy substance finds its way into our shoes and undies. My "buddy" slams my face into the filth while some fellow mudders (from the earlier waves) cheer us on. I retaliate with a wicked splash to her face that nails her right in the teeth and ears. We Army-crawl our way out of the pit, climb out, and join hands as we joyously cross the finish. The time clock is displayed above our heads, but we don't care. We got what we came for: an awesome time and lots of mud!
Is there something that you always thought would be fun to do, but maybe it doesn't fit the "norm" or you don't think you could do it? Maybe the only thing standing in the way of you reaching some of your goals is a little mud.
Remember, I'm always listening.
In Health, Strength & Mud,
Laurel
A lot of the fun of a Muddy Buddy is the memories that get shared with your fellow buddy. I get the pleasure of crawling through the mud with my best bud. The night before the race is filled with tons of laughs and way too many inside jokes. We stay up too late and eat a bunch of junk that doesn't normally fit into Laurel's vocabulary or diet. It's like a middle school slumberparty. If you are entertaining the idea of doing a competition where you will be couped up with someone in a hotel room (or for us, a generous neighbor's condo), I highly recommend you select someone where the time before the race is half the fun. Translation: Someone you wouldn't mind being in prison with.
The morning of the race is filled with some anxiety, more laughing over sleepy-eyed mistakes and a lot of hustling around to get out the door, "on time"- it's one of my many endearing qualities: I will literally be late to my own funeral. Upon arrival we meet up with our photographer (a big "thank you" shout out to my Buddy's mom who made the trek early that morning to capture us in our element!) and get several snapshots that show off our shirts we stayed up late
It is then time to start moseying to the starting line. We are in wave eight. Two waves have already gone; thanks to my punctuality. Several more pictures are taken and more laughs are had. Mostly, it's the people watching that aids in passing the time until our wave is up. Nowhere else can you find what looks to be a Halloween party in the middle of July. There are guys wearing tutus and thongs (outside shorts- thank goodness!), girls in ties, multiple people in boas, leis and fishnets. Bikes are all decked out, too. One creative bike I saw was the Trojan Horse; the buddies were Roman soldiers. The names for several duos are displayed proudly on shirts, arms, legs, shorts, etc. Emilio Estevez never really goes away- people are stealing his fame for a Muddy Buddy name. Other fun ones usually involve mud or racing in some way or another: "The Mud Studs", "This Mud's For You", "Sole Sisters", "Brothers from Another Mudder" and "Sister Sludge" are a few of the memorable ones. Pretty soon it was time for the "Bandana Babes" to take to the trail. The buddy biking starts off first. So I was left to wait for a minute until it was time for the running buddies in my wave to go. Next thing I know, the time for sight-seeing was over and my legs were pumping away.
The course is 6 miles long and approximately every mile you switch off running or biking with your buddy. The first leg was running for me and I was feeling pretty good until the outside of my knee starting hurting a touch. I began to panic. Flashbacks of the darkworld of injury flooded my mind. Then I remembered, I wasn't wearing the right shoes. I had worn my old Mizuno's so that I didn't have to stress upon the mucky assault that was going to be had on them when I danced with dirt at the finish. Phew! My legs weren't failing me; just my shoes. Along the way I caught up to my buddy who was tackling the tough trail on the bike. We shouted encouragements to each other and next thing I know, I'm scaling up and over a wall and dealing with cargo nets. Then, I have to find our bike that my buddy left for me amongst the sea of two wheels. Once I locate it, I'm off for my first bike leg. It is awesome. I LOVE trail riding. It is so beautiful and the downhill parts that whip my pigtails back are priceless. This also gives me a chance to see some of the costumes I missed. "Love your fishnets!" I call out as I pass a girl running sporting the neon pink panty-hose.
I come up to the second obstacle and drop the bike someplace that I hope is conspicuous enough for my buddy to find and "crawl" through the (less than thrilling) frog maze. After a pit stop at the water station I'm off for another round of running. A gal who looks like she stole Richard Simmons' wardrobe has been neck and neck with me the whole way. She is starting to slow her pace. My inner trainer comes out and I give her a little pep talk and she gets back into gear. About a quarter mile into this leg, I notice a leopard print thong that was thoughtlessly discarded by its owner strewn on the side of the road. "This is hilarious," I think to myself. Other road races, I'm running through puke and spit. Here, it's thongs and wigs.
Just as I was thoroughly enjoying myself, I witness a girl completely wipe-out going down the hill on the bike. I sprint towards her and see that her quad is completely stuck between the top tube (the bar leading from the handle bars to the seat) and the handlebars of her bike. She's covered in scrapes and is shaking uncontrollably. All thoughts of the race and the thongs it boasts are a distant memory and my first aid training kicks in. I get her leg dislodged and get her somewhat off the path, away from the other bikers. Another runner comes and aids in the diagnosis. The girl is obviously embarrassed and just wants to get going again (us Muddy Buddy folks are tough!). After another once-over and some water, we let her head back on the trail. As she is pedaling out of sight, and I'm getting back in my stride, another biker just completely falls off her bike into the tall grass. I race up to her as she's getting back on. "I'm fine, just embarrassed," she quips. I'm growing greatly concerned for my buddy who is currently biking this very part of the course.
Up ahead a little farther, I am called back by a fellow mudder and asked if I could help get her up the hill. I respond with a "sure" and, upon second glance, I notice this awesome woman is doing this course with the absence of one of her legs. She just needs a little help with getting the bike up the hills. The rest she did completely on her own and the use of a cane during the running parts. I told her she was my new hero and she is an inspiration to all of us. She smiled humbly and thanked me for the push. I saw her again at the obstacle when she was greeted by her boyfriend who was full of amazing motivational words for a girl he clearly adored. I saw her again making her way towards the finish during one of her running portions of the course. It was awe-inspiring. That experience made the whole race for me. All I could think was, "no excuses". She will be what I draw upon the next time I don't want to head out the door for a run. I'll do it anyways because: "no excuses".
The next obstacle was an inflatable contraption that proved difficult for many of us to get over. The amount of teamwork that went into getting everyone over this obstacle was another awesome experience. During other races, it's "every man (or woman) for themself". At Muddy Buddy, there is a sense of "we're all in this together". Perhaps, it's a "misery loves company" type of thing. But, it feels like something more than that. Maybe I'm getting too poetic, but there is definitely an ambience that cannot be duplicated anywhere else.
After making sure my buddy made it safely to that obstacle, and retrieving our bike from her, it was time to get back on the trail- but not before
hitting up another water station (loved the Muddy Buddy volunteers! Those water stations kept me going!). While I was getting my H20 in me, several people started calling for the medic. There was an assembly line of voices calling back for help. Every racer stopped what they were doing and made sure the next person back was getting someone else's attention. The medic truck was right near the water station, and it loaded up and headed towards the injured party. Everyone went back to making their way towards the mud pit. After biking for a little bit, I came upon the poor lass who was suffering from heat stroke. She was in good hands. I was amazed to see how far away this girl was from where the medics had to come. Several people were involved in ensuring she was taken care of. Have I mentioned how much I love the team spirit of Muddy Buddy?!
This leg of the trail was treacherous. The mountains (they were definitely mountains!) were full of big rocks, roots and sand. The sand is what made it so tough. You couldn't find a line in which to stay to make your way to the top. Everyone in front of me was hopping off their bikes. I got cocky (yes, it does happen) and attempted to ride through it. I made it ab't halfway up, when I felt my bike start to fishtail. After seeing so many wipeouts, I decided not to be the one that needed to have an assembly line of people getting the medics' attention. Begrudgingly, I gave in and hopped off the bike. I ran (if I couldn't bike, I was gonna run!) it up the rest of the way. The downhill was very steep and the turns were narrow. There was a point at which I saw my life flash before my eyes. It was a good life, so I wasn't too upset. It did enter my head that I hadn't run a marathon, gone to Paris, been in a massive food fight or gone skydiving yet. So, it wasn't my time to go. After not dying, the trail started to even out a little and I was nearing the last leg of my journey. I made it to the big slide, dropped the bike, and attempted to leave it right in front so my buddy could find it; but a volunteer who took his position a little too seriously yelled at me to move it past the sign. I only hope she found it easily this go around. I got in line for the slide, and a chick with a gorgeous Australian accent was next to me as we made our way up the "ladder" to the slide. Upon looking down, we both had a slight bit of panic. The slide resembles more of a roller-coaster than what it claimed to be. I held hands with a complete stranger as we braved our way down the slide. We both complained of butt burns and wedgies; then parted ways. Another pit stop, and then it was time for the last leg of the race.
I was feeling great. I was in a euphoric mood. I don't know if it was from heat stroke or all the neat experiences I had had along the way, but the last bit of the course was over way too quickly. I was enjoying all of the conversations around me and the last little bit of people watching. I could over hear compliments of "I like your wig", "digging the coconuts", "your shirt is so cute", etc. all around me. I got kind of melancholy as I knew the end was near. A whole year awaits until I get to experience this again. Before I got too sentimental over it ending, I recalled I still had the mud pit! I made my way to the bike drop and waited for my buddy. I was worried because some of the hills in the beginning of this last leg were kinda scary. I was not alone. Several other running buddies were waiting for their biking counterpart. Conversations ranged from where they were eating afterwards to who made their costumes. The elation that shown on all the running buddies' faces as their bike buddy made it around the bend was the same. It was like seeing a long lost friend get off an airplane....or when your name is called after a long wait at a restaurant. Pretty soon, I got to join in the jubilation as my buddy made her way down that last hill. We dropped the bike and headed towards the finish. A rope attached to a tall wall and a slew of tires were all that was between us and that glorious mud. We put our arm muscles to the test and climbed up the wall (I won't mention how terrified my buddy was of the height- oops!), and then tiptoed our way (in perfect sync) through the tires like professional NFL players. Finally, the whole reason why we do this nonsense...the mud pit! We "dove" right in. Our bellies grazing the mucky floor as the slimy substance finds its way into our shoes and undies. My "buddy" slams my face into the filth while some fellow mudders (from the earlier waves) cheer us on. I retaliate with a wicked splash to her face that nails her right in the teeth and ears. We Army-crawl our way out of the pit, climb out, and join hands as we joyously cross the finish. The time clock is displayed above our heads, but we don't care. We got what we came for: an awesome time and lots of mud!
Is there something that you always thought would be fun to do, but maybe it doesn't fit the "norm" or you don't think you could do it? Maybe the only thing standing in the way of you reaching some of your goals is a little mud.
Remember, I'm always listening.
In Health, Strength & Mud,
Laurel
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