Tag: gluten free

2024- My Recap of a Year Full of Love, Light, and Growth

Goodbye 2024 and helloooo 2025! It feels so weird to say that out loud- or on keyboard I should say. This year was an eventful one full of laughter, love, tears, growth, and prosperity. With each year etched as a tally mark on the metaphorical wall that represents my life, I become more and more grateful to be alive. This world has so much love and light to offer, and I’m so happy to be in it. With that being said, I’m going to do a recap of some of the moments that helped me grow and appreciate life. Maybe this recap will inspire you to try new things in 2025!

#1: Started my blog!

The very first thing I did back in January was start this website you are reading off of right now! I do have to admit that I have not posted or written as much as I would have liked over the past year. During my winter break last year I was very committed to consistently put out good quality content, but since school started back up and I began working two jobs, it has been so hard to make the time to write/journal/blog/create content. Moving forward into 2025 I want to dedicate more time to making posts on here. I’ve always loved creating content and sharing my life, opinions, thoughts, and so forth with the world, so I am really going to try and hold myself accountable.

#2: Left my teenage years behind (turned 20)!

This year I hit a huge milestone for younger Diana- I left my teenage years behind. I remember turning thirteen and imagining myself in the future. Turning twenty, BEING twenty, sounded so old and official because it meant no longer being a teenager. It felt so grown up to hear people talk about being in their twenties. I always thought that I would have my entire life figured out as soon as I entered that decade in my life. Safe to say I was being severely over dramatic.

As a twenty year old girl now, I am still so young and have so much to learn and grow from in life. If I could give a younger version of myself some advice, I would tell her: 1.) It is okay to not have everything figured out yet! Life is still so brand new and you have so much to accomplish. There is no rush! Just enjoy life at your own pace. You have so much time. 2.) Being twenty is just as fun and exciting as being sixteen. You find fun in every decade of your life.

#3: I walked in my first runway show!

Diana Farmer walking for Jiagia Studios in the Hook’d Magazine 2024 Runway Show. Photo from The Daily Texan instagram post. Photographer: Manoo Sirivelu

This was so much fun!! At my university I am a part of several fashion clubs/organizations, one of them being Hook’d Magazine. Every year Hook’d hosts a runway show that showcases designs created by university students. In April I had the unique opportunity to walk as a model for one of the designers, Jiagia Studios, created by Parth Ghawghawe. This experience was so amazing and I had a blast pretending to be a top model walking in NYFW. It was definitely a little out of my comfort zone as I was terrified to trip in front of hundreds of people in my six inch stiletto heels. Thankfully everything went smoothly and I felt like the third Hadid on that catwalk. 10/10 would do this again.

#4: Watched my little sister graduate

In June I got to see my little sister graduate, which was so emotional for me. As an older sibling, it’s hard to grasp the concept of your younger siblings growing up and hitting major milestones in their lives. She will always be four years old with botched bangs she used safety scissors to cut herself. Nevertheless, I am so proud of her and excited to see where life takes her.

#5: Experienced Italy as a diagnosed celiac for the first time

My mom and all of her family are from Italy (I am half Italian), so I have been going every summer to visit since I was born. The summer of 2023 I was officially diagnosed with celiac disease AFTER I had gotten back from my yearly trip to Italy. Summer 2023 Diana was still enjoying all the glutenous pizza, pasta, desserts, and breads that Italy is so well known for (unknowingly damaging my intestinal cells but it’s okay because at least it all tasted so good). I was so scared to visit Italy this past summer as I was unsure of how my diet would play out.

To my utmost surprise, Italy is so far advanced in the gluten free world. Because food is such a big part of Italian culture, the Italian Celiac Association (or AIC for short in Italy) has done an amazing job at making the lives celiacs living/visiting Italy so easy and enjoyable. For starters, Italian citizens/residents get a monthly stipend from the government to help them purchase gluten free foods. Secondly, there is a booklet created by the AIC that showcases every certified gluten free establishment (and establishments that have been recognized for their food safety) for EVERY region of Italy. You can find everything from gluten free grocery stores, gluten free gelaterias, gluten free bakeries, to restaurants that are safe to eat at.

The photo above shows some desserts I tried from a certified 100% gluten free bakery in the hometown where my nonna lives. Finding this bakery was so special for me because the tartlets above were always my favorites growing up as a kid. I was so happy to find out how tasty they could be made- despite being gluten free.

If you are a fellow celiac and you have concerns about traveling to Italy, I want you to rest assured that you will have no trouble finding delicious foods to indulge in.

#6: Moved into my first apartment

I’m currently a junior in college and this is my first year not living in a dorm. Having an apartment to call your own is so nice. Pictured is a view of the sunset from my room- I could not be more in love. This was another huge milestone because your first apartment is something that you remember for the rest of your life. It’s an additional step into adulthood!

Decorating was so much fun. It’s such a girl apartment and I love it so much.

#7: Got featured in magazines

Sophia, Montana from Spark Magazine’s issue No. 23, Motor.

Like I mentioned before, I am a part of several fashion clubs/organizations at my university, one of them being Spark Magazine. This is my first semester in this organization, and I am a part of the modeling committee. Modeling is one of my hobbies that I find so much fun. It’s kind of like theatre in a way because you get to put on a persona and pose in front of the camera.

This shoot was so much fun to execute and I really love how all the photos turned out. I hope to be able to be a part of this team again next semester!

Stoicism from Hook’d Magazine’s issue No. 7, Sanctum.

Another magazine I got to model in was for Hook’d Magazine. This is the second issue of Hook’d I have been able to model for but this one holds a special place in my heart because I loved this team so much! The garments we were modeling were hand made by two Textile and Apparel students. That in itself is incredible. Again, I hope to have the opportunity to model in future magazines.

#8: Saw one of my favorite artists, Clairo, in concert

Words cannot describe how much I love Clairo. She is one of my favorite artists and getting to see her in concert with my friends was unreal. This was kind of a spur of the moment decision as my friends and I all bought tickets to this concert like the day before. We all needed a break from our school work and studying, and this was the best way to unwind.

Clairo’s voice is so angelic and it truly healed something inside of me. This was one of the best concerts I have ever been to and one of the best days of my Fall semester. I will cherish this night forever.

#9: Enjoyed an “all expenses paid for” 5 star meal

There was a new restaurant in Austin, Texas that opened up called Jupiter Supper Club that is completely plant based and has so many gluten free options on the menu. One of my friends had to ‘in’ and got us a table at their soft opening where we had the opportunity to try out their entire menu for FREE. Now, as a college student this is a huge deal. We are never passing up a free meal. Everything was so delicious and luxurious. The restaurant itself is beautiful and decorated with so much thought.

My friends and I dressed up and walked around down town Austin feeling like true A-list celebrities after our free five star meal. Definitely worth failing my biochem quiz the next day. Everything in moderation, right?

#10: Hosted a 100% gluten free friendsgiving

Let me start off by saying how much I love my friends. This Thanksgiving, I had the dream of hosting a friendsgiving with a huge group of people full of gluten free Thanksgiving foods that I miss eating. I invited 25 of my friends over to my college apartment and we had a huge potluck style feast. The best part? Everything was safe for me to eat. Some highlights of the foods that were made and brought go as follows: sushi bake, pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting, fresh baked bread, TWO turkeys, creamed corn, sweet potato casserole, the list goes on.

All the food was so delicious and I had so much fun hosting all of my friends.

To a wonderful 2024…

There are so many more events and days I could write and highlight, but I think 10 is a nice, even number so I will leave it at that.

All in all I had a truly wonderful 2024 and I am so excited to see what 2025 has in store for me. See you all in the new year!

December 19, 2024
Healthy College Pantry Essentials for Busy Students Like You

I’m currently in my third semester of college and trust me, I’m no stranger to a busy schedule and a stressful workload. Some days I have 6-8 hours of back to back classes with no time to hit the dining hall. Because of this, I have learned what foods belong in my pantry to keep me fueled and fed. It’s so important for us students to take care of our nutritional needs so we can tackle all the tasks needed to get done. So, whether you live in a dorm room with just a microwave or even a small apartment, everything on this list will work for you.

#1: Quick Oats

Quick oats have to be one of the most important things on this list. Oats are an amazing, nutrient dense food that is great to add to your diet. They are a great complex carb that will help keep you satiated and energized until lunch. Additionally, oats are a great source of fiber and help regulate your cholesterol levels. The specific type that I choose are gluten free, protein oats. I like them with a little added protein for additional benefits.

Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Protein Oats

I reach for these in the morning, especially when I have early classes to get to (since I don’t feel like waking up even earlier to get breakfast at the dining hall). You can make these in the microwave by adding some water or milk, or if you want something even quicker, let them soak overnight in the fridge so you can eat them on your way to class.

#2: Microwaveable Brown Rice

Again, another great, easy way to get whole grains into your diet is with microwavable brown rice. Of course if brown rice is not your thing you can opt for white rice, but I prefer brown rice for a multitude of reasons. For one, it’s a whole grain (whereas white rice is a refined grain). This means that when you eat white rice, you are not getting all the nutrients that the whole grain version has to offer. Additionally, since brown rice is a whole grain, it is a complex carbohydrate which will keeper you fuller for longer. Besides all the health benefits, I just honestly prefer the texture of brown rice better. It’s a win-win for me.

Seeds of Change Organic Brown Rice

I love this specific brand because it’s a certified gluten free rice. If you don’t have to worry about avoiding gluten, any brand works fine.

Spice this up with your favorite seasonings to add an extra punch of flavor and variety to the taste. My favorites are cumin, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and cardamom. If you are vegetarian of vegan, pair this rice with a peas, chickpeas, or beans to create an easy, plant based complete protein source! You really can’t go wrong with this. It’s easy, fast, and filling.

#3: Canned Beans/Legumes

Beans and legumes are an amazing food group to incorporate into your diet. They are very nutrient dense and are a great source of fiber, protein, iron, and B vitamins. As I mentioned above, if you pair them with a whole grain such as brown rice, it creates an amazing plant based complete protein source.

Green Valley Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas)

Some of my favorite beans/legumes are chickpeas, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Again, you can eat them straight out of the bag/can by adding your favorite seasonings! A good tip is to try and look for a low sodium variety for something a little healthier.

#4: Salty Snack- Hippeas Chickpea Puffs

Every once in awhile, you just want a satisfying snack to crunch on while watching your favorite show or while studying. The great news is, you do not have to give up taste/satisfaction for health! Some of my favorite chips that I reach for constantly are Hippeas chickpea puffs. These snack puffs are made from chickpeas which makes them a great source of fiber and some protein. Additionally, they are vegan, gluten free, and nut free! I highly recommend if you are looking for a savory snack with great flavor and crunch.

Hippeas Chickpea Puffs

#5: Sweet Snack- Siete Mini Bunuelos

Of course we need a sweet treat in the pantry to satisfy the sweet tooth cravings. So, I present to you: Siete mini bunuelos! Siete is another one of my favorite brands out there. All of their products are gluten free and made with wholesome ingredients (without sacrificing taste). If you had not yet tried their products, I highly recommend!

Siete Grain Free Cinnamon Crisps (Mini Bunuelos)

#6: Nut Butter

A good nut butter is such a versatile food that is also a great source of healthy, unsaturated fats (which can help keep you full). I recommend looking for a natural nut butter that is made from only your nut of choice and maybe some sea salt. There really is no need for all the filler ingredients that big brands like to add, so try sticking to the natural stuff as it is the healthiest option.

Trader Joe’s Creamy Salted Almond Butter

Personally, I am a big fan of almond butter and peanut butter, so I switch between the two depending on what mood I’m in.

I love adding nut butters to my oatmeal, as filling for dates, or in sandwiches. Honestly, a drizzle of this stuff over anything is sure to be delicious.

#7: Dates (or your favorite dried fruit)

I could write a love letter to dates. They are one of my most used fruits when I am in a pinch. Dates are full of natural sweetness and offer a ton of carbohydrates, so they are a great food to eat when you need a boost of energy. My favorite way to eat them is filled with a nut butter. It’s like a healthy, natural version of a candy bar and is a great midday snack.

Another way I eat dates is in my oatmeal as a natural sweetener.

Dates last such a long time in the pantry and are a staple for my ‘kitchen’.

Natural Delights Fresh Medjool Pitted Dates

#8: All Natural Protein/Energy Bars

Like I mentioned before, life as a student is very, very, busy, especially if you are managing a job on top of your school work as well. One way I stay energized and fueled on days where I have a back-to-back schedule is with protein bars.

Now, I have a love-hate relationship with protein bars. On one hand, they are super convenient. You just put them in your bag and eat them whenever, wherever. On the other hand, many protein bar companies add in so many weird ingredients that I am not a fan of. I really try to keep my diet focused on whole foods, so for me those are a no-go.

However, throughout my years consuming protein/energy bars, I have come across some great brands that use good ingredients to create their products.

All Natural Protein/Energy Bars

Some of my favorite bars are made from the brands RXBAR, GoMacro, and LARABAR.

The RXBAR and GoMacro bars offer a larger protein content, so if that’s what you are looking for, I’d go with those. There’s also sooo many flavors to choose from so experiment! Some of my favorite RXBAR flavors are peanut butter, pumpkin spice, and chocolate sea salt.

LARABAR does not offer a lot of protein, but they are still a great bar made with real fruits and nuts. If you need some extra energy, these are a very good option for you as well.

#9: Protein Powder

Protein is a very important macronutrient that helps support strong muscles and is in charge of many functions in our bodies. It’s very important that you get an adequate amount of protein in your diet so you can live a healthy, enjoyable life. An easy way for busy students like us to up our protein intake is with protein powder! Protein powder can be added to oatmeal, milk, water, and smoothies for an easy protein boost.

Vega Plant Based Protein Powder

My favorite brand of protein powder is Vega. Their protein powder is plant based, gluten free, and nutrient dense because they are made with vegetables as well! The taste is amazing as well. My favorite is the chocolate flavor!

Plant Power!

There you have it, healthy pantry essentials for busy students like me and you. I hope you found this blog post helpful! If you try any of these or have added these to your pantry, let me know! As always thanks so much for reading and please take care of yourself! Until next time.

-Diana

January 15, 2024
10 Must Try Gluten Free Items From Trader Joe’s

Whether you suffer from celiac disease, are sensitive to gluten, or just need some tasty food recommendations to try, this post has you covered. Here, I list my top 10 must try gluten free items from Trader Joe’s (and you can’t even tell they’re gluten free!!!). Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. Thank me later.

#1: Cauliflower Gnocchi

Now, I know what you might be thinking, ‘Cauliflower gnocchi?! Ew!’. No, no, before you judge it too harshly based off of first impressions, I’ll have you know… it’s bomb. The thing is, you can’t go into this expecting it to taste exactly the same as traditional gnocchi. Traditional gnocchi are made with potato whereas these are made with cauliflower (obviously they will differ slightly in taste). However, the cauliflower taste is not overwhelming at all. In fact, with my preferred method of preparation, I barely notice it.

I recommend pan searing them straight from the freezer. Add olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic and start sautéing away. When brown and slightly crispy, I add Parmigiano Reggiano and chili flakes on top. BAM! Easy and delicious dinner served to you in under 10 minutes.

(P.S. don’t feel bad about eating the entire bag. I do it every single time).

#2: Joe-Joe’s Cookies & Creme Inspired Granola Clusters

I AM ADDICTED TO THIS GRANOLA! Joe was NOT lying when he labeled this as ‘cookies & creme’!! It captures the taste of cookies so well I can’t even wrap my head around it. I love to just snack on this straight from the bag or add it to my yogurt bowl in the morning.

#3: Chili & Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips

These are seriously so addicting. They are a great, healthier alternative to Takis that us celiacs can indulge in. I have never met a single person who does not like these so I highly recommend.

#4: Jalapeño Seasoned Corn & Rice Puffs

One word: heavenly. These puffs are the perfect blend of airy and crunchy. Once you take that initial first bite, they seem to melt in your mouth. The jalapeño seasoning is not too overpowering, so even if you can’t handle much spice, I think you would still enjoy these. Another thing I love about these puffs is that they are a healthier alternative to a typical potato chip. Since they’re made with quinoa, they have a nice complex carb to help satisfy your hunger.

#5: Gluten Free Five Cheese Ravioli

Being Italian, my celiac diagnosis was especially hard for me. I felt like I had to turn my back on so many cultural foods that I grew up with. For the past four months I have been searching for the best pasta alternatives, and this one did not disappoint. The cheeses used add an amazing sharp flavor. The actual pasta blend itself is tasty and holds together fairly well once cooked! I like to add crushed chili flakes on top for extra flavor.

#6: Hearty Minestrone Soup

These cold winter months call for cozy soup to keep you warm. I love this soup because not only is it gluten free, but it’s plant based as well! There are so many great ingredients in it such as kale, beans, and quinoa, so it’s sure to keep you satisfied.

#7: Gluten Free Chocolate Chunk Cookies With Sea Salt

Trader Joe’s has perfected gluten free desserts. These cookies are to die for and taste just like traditional cookies. I love anything and everything chocolate-sea salt so these are perfection! (They are massive too so that’s a bonus).

#8: Gluten Free Madeleine Cookies

My mom is their biggest supporter. Every time we go to Trader Joe’s, she will buy like five boxes of these cookies. They are her morning staple and I can’t really blame her for that. These madeleine cookies will transport you straight to Europe. Light, fluffy, with a subtle sweetness, they pair perfectly with a smooth espresso.

#9: Gluten Free Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins

The first time I tried these muffins, I had to triple check that they were actually gluten free- they’re that good. My favorite part is the cinnamon sugar muffin top. I promise you will not be disappointed if you decide to try these for yourself.

#10: Dark Chocolate Sunflower Seed Butter Cups

I am a peanut butter cup LOVER, so when I saw these in store I had to give them a try. Let me start off by saying that there’s so much to love about these sweet treats. Not only are they gluten free, but they are also soy, dairy, tree nut, and peanut free. Oh, and they’re vegan! If you suffer from any other major food allergies, these are a great option for you. Another thing I love about these is that they are not too sweet! I feel satisfied and good about snacking on them.

Time To Go Shopping…

There you have it! 10 amazing foods from Trader Joe’s that you are guaranteed to enjoy- celiac or not.

I hope this list serves you well, and If you end up trying any of the these, I’d love to hear about it!

If you know of any other gluten free products from Trader Joe’s that you love, sound off below! I’m always looking for new foods to try.

Until next time!

-Diana

December 30, 2023
My Journey With Celiac Disease

I feel like it’s only fitting to start my food and wellness pages with the biggest part of my life right now- navigating the world as a newly diagnosed celiac.

2020

My noticeable health struggles date back to the early pandemic days. When the world ‘shut down’ I was a sophomore in high school. As did everyone else my age, I just thought I was getting an extended spring break. I decided this was the perfect time to reinvent myself. I started doing at home work out videos from famous fitness YouTubers, and I had recently become vegetarian. My diet drastically changed. I incorporated more whole foods, more vegetables, and more plant based protein. I limited foods high in saturated fats, added sugars, and added sodium (all the health buzz words really).

Green Goddess Salad

Protein Packed Baked Oats

Spicy Veggie Bowl with Tofu

Of course, my newfound fitness and diet caused me to lose weight (something I did not have intent on doing). I just wanted to become a healthier person overall, and I guess an aftereffect of that was slimming down and putting on muscle definition. However, with my slimmer figure I started noticing something else as well. After every meal, no matter how big or small, my stomach would inflate like a balloon. I literally looked like I was in my second trimester carrying twins.

My bloating started becoming physically uncomfortable. I had a constant pressure pushing out from my insides. My appetite started to decrease because it seemed like the only way to avoid the pain was to stop eating altogether.

After three months of constant pain and rapid weight loss, I went to a gastroenterologist to seek help. He did some bloodwork on me and my results came back with one marker positive for celiac. I was scheduled for an endoscopy the following week to officially test for celiac disease. To everyone’s surprise, the endoscopy came back negative. My gastroenterologist was a bit shocked, but he continued digging to see what could possibly be wrong with me. I had a gastric emptying scan done, a lactose intolerance and fructose intolerance test done, an x-ray of my intestines done, the list goes on. Nothing came back conclusive. I was left with no answers.

Fueled with frustration, I had to go on with my life. It seemed that this would be my new normal from now on.

2021

As time went on I began to lose more and more weight. My energy levels plummeted, I was irritable, constantly sad, self conscious, and always in pain. My family and teachers expressed their concern, but I brushed it off as being ‘fine’. This was in fact my new normal.

I had my yearly physical done for school and my physician noticed my rapid weight loss. I expressed my chronic fatigue and loss of appetite, so more bloodwork was done to see what could be the root of the problem. One of those tests being another celiac panel. This time around, two positive markers for celiac came up.

I was supposed to schedule another endoscopy, but with the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, I never got around to it.

2023

The summer of 2023 was my breaking point. That summer I was visiting my family in Italy. Pasta, bread, and pizza made up a majority of my diet (I mean, can you blame me?). Although my tastebuds were more than happy, my GI tract was as upset as ever. My symptoms became the worst they had ever been and a switch finally went off in my brain. When I got back to the U.S. I decided to make another trip to the doctor. This time, I expressed to my physician that I believed I had celiac disease. She ran another blood panel on me. This time, three markers for celiac came back positive. I was referred to another gastroenterologist and she agreed with my concern.

So, I underwent yet another endoscopy. After two weeks of impatience, my results finally came back- I was officially diagnosed with celiac disease… And so my gluten free journey began!

As of right now, I have been gluten free for about four months now. It has definitely been a struggle adjusting to this new lifestyle, especially as a sophomore in college. My family is from Italy and so much of my cultural food has gluten in it. Not only that, but going out to eat is virtually impossible. I struggle to find places that are affordable and safe for me to eat at.

On the plus side, I have been having so much fun experimenting with new recipes, so stay tuned for posts on that.

Thanks so much for taking the time to read my story! Until next time!

-Diana

December 26, 2023