THANK YOU BARB! I not only eat gluten free but also follow the Low FODMAP diet. I'm the first one to say to people that gluten free isn't always healthy. Its a fad right now. The low FODMAP diet seems to help with the healing of my small intestine. I don't eat alot still, as my insides are still learning to digest food. My whole system changed so quickly that I have had to re-learn how to eat. I get full very quickly. My protein sources come mostly from chicken, nuts and hard aged cheeses. I do not eat corn or anything with MSG either... instant stomach upset to those two foods. I never drink soda, tea, 2 cups of coffee, and water. No chocolate, and very little refined sugars. I'm a voracious label reader.
My greatest concern is trying to get my body to work in harmony again. When the celiac diagnosis and the postmenopausal diagnosis came down I was floored. Now everything is happening so quickly its hard to wrap my head around.
I walk for exercise because I managed to blow out both knees. (I'm talented like that) But I am really trying to avoid the damage to my bones. Because I was so sick and so thin my muscles started to waste away and the doc warned me about osteoporosis especially because of my post menopausal status. I will maintain my course because it seems like I am on target according to your advice Barb. I just need to be more patient.
Just because you're eating gluten free, doesn't mean you're eating well.
Do you drink sodas? If so, switch to water; that alone would make a big difference. Additionally, look at the sugar content of some of the gluten free foods you're eating. There may be way too much; or maybe extra fat, etc.
As with any diet, you should eat more fresh/frozen veggies than anything else. When you fix your plate, 1/2 should be veggies, 1/4 a protein, such as meat, chicken, fish, eggs, etc and the other 1/4 should be a grain of some type, with a serving of dairy on the side.
Portion sizes are one of the most important factors in any weight loss effort. If a package contains 4 servings and you eat them all, chances are, you've eaten too much.
Exercise is another factor. You should aim for 30 minutes of exercise, at least 3 days/week, but better if you can exercise daily. Walking a yoga are my favorites.