Thank you, HyVee

I don't know how many of you are familiar with HyVee grocery stores, but I became a HUGE fan yesterday. I already knew that our store's produce and meat were above average, and it actually has a food court located right there in the store (with Chinese, Italian, American, etc. foods to choose from) with a very clean, large seating area.

The company is very committed to good health. The foods available at the food court are fairly healthy-- for example, the Chinese food contains no MSG.

HyVee stores also have dietitians on staff. Yesterday afternoon K and I met with the dietitian at our local store, and she helped us sort out so much. I can eat a lot more than that I thought!

She was familar with Dr. Sears and had even attended a conference he spoke at. But she discouraged the total elimination diet, because it would just make me crazy. (And I can attest to that-- yesterday I had rice for breakfast, and green beans and an apple for lunch... I was HUNGRY, even though I hadn't even abided by the strict diet!). Instead, she wants me to focus on cutting out dairy (and hidden dairy), soy, nuts, and chocolate. I can do that.

That means I can still eat meat, fruits, vegetables, etc. She told me some to avoid-- but my menu options are more numerous than I thought! So instead of grabbing a handful of hershey kisses, I can have a handful of craisins instead. Again, I can do that.

And did you know that there is such a thing as rice ice cream?! I haven't tried it yet, but I did put rice milk on my cereal (rice chex) this morning-- I couldn't tell the difference at all! Of course, I also put sugar on my cereal, which I don't normally do.... but since I am eating healthier now in all other respects, I think that was okay!