Local Gluten Free Eateries Worth Checking Out

Be honest, have you dreamed of going gluten free? HAHA probably not, right? To some, it’s become the hip thing to do nowadays. We've all heard how beneficial it is for your health to go gluten free. A few months ago, I had to make this change just for a short period of time. As much of a struggle it was in the beginning, I continued to carry on the diet. I had tons of benefits from cutting out wheat from my diet, I believe it’s so worth it, let me explain! Switching to gluten free alternatives has helped with my sensitive stomach and my seasonal allergies. Did I mention that I have more energy and feel less sluggish? I don’t stick to this diet 24/7 but I try to maintain it as much as I can.

What IS gluten?

After picking my doctor’s brain for a few hours (I promise he loves me), in a nutshell, gluten is a protein in wheat and some other grains, such as barley and rye. You know, what makes our favorite foods taste really good!

Some benefits of going gluten free consist of increased energy levels, promote healthy weight loss, help digestion and those who suffer from irritate bowl syndrome, and reduces the risk of certain cancers and diseases.

This all makes sense when you look at the big picture, if you’re eliminating fried and or processed foods, you’re already helping yourself. By cutting wheat out of your diet, you’re more likely to eat fruits and vegetables since they are all gluten-free.

Keep in mind that…

Some people avoid gluten because they simply have to. Others choose to eliminate wheat to control their dermatitis, to reduce the symptoms of gluten sensitivity, folks that have an autoimmune disease or want to reduce inflammation.

However, some say that going gluten free isn’t always the best. Keep in mind that food companies in their quest to go gluten free may include other additives. Sometimes the goodies have additional calories, fat and sodium in the products. Just a heads up, be sure to check out any gluten free products before buying if you’re concerned with calorie intact. It amazes me how GOOD the food tastes and it prevents my stomach from hurting so I’m sold!

As you know, you don’t have to have Celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity to gain benefits of this diet. Luckily, cafes and restaurants have stepped up and offer gluten free bagels, cookies, wraps, buns, pastas, pizzas, and etc. I’ve been to a few hot spots that provide gluten free alternatives which are SO worth checking out!

• The Sunflower Café
• Kelley Jeans

Goshen, NY

• Eat this Bakery
• Francesca’s Pizzeria & Restaurant

Montgomery, NY

• Karma Road
• Bacchus

New Paltz, NY

• Sissys Café
• Enzo’s Restaurant 

Kingston, NY

• Clemson Bros. Brewery
• Cosimo’s

Middletown, NY

• Red Line Diner

Fishkill, NY

• Beacon Bagel

Beacon, NY

I guess you can say I spend my free time and money on FOOD! What's YOUR favorite, secret spot? Be sure to share your experience and feedback below!