Stop letting discouragement derail your health: 8 Tips that work

Okay, friends, let's talk guts—both the kind churning with IBS and the kind it takes to face a challenge. If you're a regular to my blog, you know my amazing sister, Sarah Aitken (RN, MS, WHNP/FNP, MHP, NBC-HWC—yes, she's that impressive), runs a fantastic program focused on diabetes and pre-diabetes. Now, you might be thinking, "Diabetes? What's that got to do with my perpetually grumpy gut?" Well, Sarah's insights often overlap beautifully with the IBS world, and her latest article about finding courage in the face of feeling discouraged and afraid? Pure gold. Seriously, give it a read. And if you want more wisdom delivered straight to your inbox (because who doesn't love a little Monday Motivation?), sign up for her newsletter right here. Trust me, your inner (and outer) self will thank you. Want to listen instead of read? Released every Monday, Sarah’s podcast, available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify is delightfully educational and entertaining.

Republished with permission of Sarah Aitken

Discouraged. It’s an emotion I’ve been experiencing while dealing with a serious website problem for the last week. 

I took a moment to really look at that word. It means lacking courage. Feeling scared. 

Embarking on radical lifestyle change (for most people, eating in a way to reverse insulin resistance IS a radical change) requires courage. Will it work for me? Will I be able to stick to it? Can I design an eating plan that feels sustainable so that I can remain on it forever? I had a setback. Will I ever get back on track?

Taking a leap of faith requires courage. Getting back on track requires courage. Sticking to something in the face of adversity requires courage. 

Courage means you are not allowing circumstances to get the best of you. It is making the right decisions in the face of fear. It is getting back on that horse and trying it again. It is taking risks and dealing with uncertainty. It is making “bravery” a habit. 

Being courageous doesn’t mean you are not afraid. It means you are doing something even though it scares you to do it. 

Here's some great news: courage can be learned and cultivated! 

Here are 8 ways to overcome the feeling of “discouraged” when fear has you stuck: 

1. Acknowledge that when you feel discouraged, it is not because you can’t do something, it’s because you are letting fear stop you from trying again. Face the feeling of fear. Sweeping it under the rug gives it power. Courage is not about eliminating fear, it’s about moving forward in spite of fear being present.

2. Confront the feeling and become curious about it. What is it about the present situation that is scaring you? What would happen if you felt more courageous about it? Could it be that you are protecting your ego from experiencing failure? The reality is, continuing to try in spite of setbacks and failures makes you stronger and more resilient. 

3. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Dale Carnegie once said, “Do the thing you fear to do and keep on doing it...that is the quickest and surest way ever yet discovered to conquer fear.”

4. Make doing brave things a habit. Consciously strengthen your courage like a muscle by practicing it. In her book Fear Is Not An Option author Monica Berg recommends making a list of things that you would do if you weren’t afraid. If you made a list, what would it look like? Could you start doing some of those things now? 

5. Fear is often a pretend worry about something that MIGHT happen, but which is not actually happening right now. What are some other outcomes that are just as likely? Give equal airtime to alternate thoughts regarding the future and stay grounded in what is happening right now. 

6. Embrace failure! Success is much less about succeeding perfectly and much more about tolerating the failures along the way. Get curious about failure – see what you can learn from it. Build your resilience muscle! 

7. Don’t aim for perfection. Approach the problem with a beginner’s mind. Let go of expectations of how it’s going to go and get curious about it. Stop worrying about the outcome.

8. See fear as an opportunity instead of a roadblock. Fear can even be a handy guide, showing you the areas of your life that need some work. 

For me, just writing this article has helped me feel less discouraged about my website problem. I feel a little more courageous, and I’m glad that one silver lining is that once the problem is fixed, I will be all the more able to overcome the next challenge with less fear.

More Deliciously Low FODMAP™ Tips and Tools

Turkey Wraps (Low FODMAP)

5 Minutes prep • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Keto friendly • Serves 1

Sometimes looking at food in a different way is a great way to get new ideas for how you can eat well, eat a broad variety, and keep your gut happy. These Turkey Wraps are a good example. I used sliced deli meat for my wrap and I added lactose-free cream cheese to give it some stability and flavor. Then I piled on microgreens, walnuts, and avocado. Truthfully, you could pile in anything you like—as long as it’s low FODMAP! These make a great quick lunch and are filled with excellent variety for your gut biome.

Become a Patron!

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To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Hearty Cream of Mushroom Soup (Low FODMAP)

10 Minutes prep • 30 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Serves 4 - 6 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 2

Craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup? This Cream of Mushroom soup recipe takes the classic to a whole new level. Tender pieces of chicken breast nestled in the rich and creamy base – it's the perfect blend of hearty and satisfying. This isn't your canned soup experience; it's a homemade delight that's surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Whether it's a chilly evening or you just need a comforting pick-me-up, this soup will satisfy the heartiest eater.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Marry Me Meatballs (Low FODMAP)

10 Minutes prep • 25 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Serves 6 • Ok to make-ahead: Step 1

Tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce with a touch of cream, and topped with crisp prosciutto. It’s the kind of comfort food that whispers sweet nothings and sparks instant devotion. Whether you're aiming for a proposal or just a seriously delicious weeknight dinner, these meatballs are a surefire winner. Get ready to fall in love (with your food, at least!)

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

The Low-FODMAP Food Detective: Testing New Foods on Yourself

Living with IBS can feel like a constant culinary guessing game. Are those onions okay? Will that garlic send me into a flare-up? The low-FODMAP diet can be a lifesaver, but navigating it can be tricky.

If you want to try a food that has not yet been tested and added to one of the low-FODMAP apps, one of the most important tools in your low-FODMAP arsenal is self-testing. This involves carefully introducing new foods into your diet to identify your personal triggers. Recently I was in the produce section of my local grocery store and I simply could not leave without the beautiful green Romanesco! I checked and it was not in the Monash app, so, I decided to test it on myself. Read on to understand just how to do that!

Before you are ready to test any new food, you have to make sure your system is in a calm state (i.e., not in a flare-up). That means eating low-FODMAP foods that don’t trigger a reaction for you until you are symptom-free for a few days. That’s when you can start to introduce a new food and get relevant data related to that new food.

Once your gut is in a calm state, here's how to test a new food using your own body as the testing environment:

1. Choose one food at a time. Start with a small serving (e.g., 1/4 cup of new vegetable).

2. Isolate the food. Avoid other potential triggers during the test period.

3. Monitor your symptoms. Pay close attention to your digestion for the next 24-48 hours.

4. Record your results. Keep a food diary to track what you ate and how you felt.

Testing a Cruciferous Vegetable: Romanesco

Let's take Romanesco as a specific example. This vibrant green vegetable is a member of the cruciferous family, which can be high in FODMAPs and a trigger for some people.

• Start with a small portion: Begin with a quarter cup of chopped Romanesco.

• Prepare it simply: Steam or roast it lightly with minimal seasonings. Or put it in a salad with other ingredients you know you tolerate well (this is what I did).

• Observe your symptoms: Watch for bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation.

Important Notes:

• Be patient: It may take a couple of days to notice any reactions.

• Don't give up! Finding your triggers takes time and experimentation.

• If you don’t notice any symptoms: Try the whole process again with a larger amount (1/3 cup vs. 1/4 cup for example).

By diligently testing new foods, you can gain valuable insights into your own digestive system and build the depth of your personalized low-FODMAP plan. We are all different!

Have a question you’d like to have answered? Email me at hello@ibsgamechanger.com

Deliciously Low FODMAP™ recipes

Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry and Cucumber Mint Salad (Low FODMAP)

20 Minutes prep • 30 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Serves 6 • Ok to make-ahead: Step 1

This dish features a delightful blend of creamy, savory, and spicy flavors. Marinated in a delicious blend of Indian spices, creamy coconut milk, and fresh ginger, this chicken is baked to juicy perfection and finished with butter and sesame seeds giving it a bit of crunch with every bite. The refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool and crisp counterpoint to the warmly spiced chicken, making this a complete and flavorful meal. This chicken is even better served cold, so make extra and have it for lunch or dinner the next day.

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To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

15-Minute Italian Butter Chicken (Low FODMAP)

5 Minutes prep • 10 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Serves 2 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 4

This is the ultimate weeknight dinner that combines the creamy richness of butter chicken with the bold flavors of Italian seasoning. The chicken is seared and then finished in a velvety sauce, rich in Italian flavor. Ready in just 15 minutes, it's perfect for busy days when you crave something indulgent yet easy to make. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Lightly Sweet and Salty Nuts (Low FODMAP)

5 Minutes prep • 10 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Lactose-Free • Makes 5 cups • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 4

Craving a crunchy, flavorful snack? Look no further than these irresistible Lightly Sweet and Salty Nuts. The perfect balance of sweet and savory makes them impossible to resist. They are so easy to make, you have them ready in a jiffy. You can use other kinds of nuts instead, or in addition to, these two. I used nuts from Costco for this recipe which also made it very cost-effective.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Simple One Pan Seafood Stew (Low FODMAP)

15 Minutes prep • 20 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Serves 4 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 2

This simple seafood stew is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender halibut, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this easy-to-make one-pan meal is a great way to enjoy some seafood.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Green Chili and Chicken Enchiladas (Low FODMAP)

20 Minutes prep • 30 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Makes 12 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 4

Experience the magic of authentic Southwestern cooking with these Green Chili and Chicken Enchiladas. This recipe captures the essence of New Mexican flavors, with a balance of spice and creaminess in every bite. Best yet, they’re easy to make and can be made ahead and cooked (or reheated) when ready to serve.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Indian Spiced One Pan Beef Keema (Low FODMAP)

10 Minutes prep • 20 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Serves 4 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 4

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this flavorful and easy-to-make Indian spiced beef keema. This one-pan wonder combines tender ground beef with a vibrant blend of aromatic spices, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend treat, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Holiday Salad Too (Low FODMAP)

20 Minutes prep • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Vegetarian • Serves 6 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 4

This vibrant salad is the perfect antidote to all the holiday indulgence. It's one of those recipes that will make you feel healthy just looking at it! Packed with fresh vegetables, tangy cheeses, and sweet dried cranberries, and finished with a lemony vinaigrette so it’s got a little something for everyone. Even better, it’s a great make-ahead salad because it stays perfectly fresh in the fridge even for a couple of days!

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Rosemary Almond Flour Crackers (Low FODMAP)

5 Minutes prep • 20 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Lactose-free • Makes 36 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 5

Craving crispy, savory crackers? These Rosemary Almond Flour Crackers are the perfect guilt-free treat! Made with almond flour, spices, and fragrant rosemary, they're naturally gluten-free and packed with flavor. They’re quick to make and perfect for a healthy snack, an appetizer, or to accompany your favorite dips and cheeses.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Cinnamon Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream (Low FODMAP)

15 Minutes prep • 30 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Serves 12 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 2

Warm, cozy, and full of festive cheer, this Cinnamon Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is the perfect dessert to keep the holiday season going! The cake itself is a soft, moist masterpiece, infused with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of clove—spices that evoke memories of cozy winter nights and festive gatherings. Topped with a rich, velvety Eggnog Buttercream frosting, this cake is a luxurious treat that combines the creamy, spiced flavor of eggnog with the sweetness of buttercream. Whether you're hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to be a seasonal favorite.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Decadent Chicken Soup with Gnocchi and Bacon (Low FODMAP)

10 Minutes prep • 35 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Serves 6 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 6

This comforting and hearty creamy chicken gnocchi soup is the ultimate bowl of cozy goodness. Rich, velvety, and packed with flavor, it's a perfect balance of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach, all swimming in a luscious, creamy broth. Crispy bacon adds a perfect smoky crunch to each spoonful. Whether you're serving it as a weeknight dinner or as a special dish for family and friends, this soup will warm you from the inside out with every bite. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it's a meal that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Creamy Holiday Eggnog (Low FODMAP)

20 Minutes prep • 4 Hours chill • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Serves 8 • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 6

This holiday season, treat yourself to the rich, creamy, and comforting taste of homemade eggnog. A timeless tradition, this recipe captures the essence of winter warmth in every sip. Crafted with low FODMAP ingredients in mind, including velvety cream, fragrant spices, and a touch of sweetness, this eggnog is the perfect holiday libation. Whether you prefer it spiked with a bit of brandy or bourbon or non-alcoholic, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations. So gather your loved ones, pour a cup of this delightful beverage, and savor the magic of the season.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

I’ve got IBS. What do I do now?

Take Control of Your IBS: Your Journey Starts Here

Living with IBS can be frustrating and confusing. But you're not alone, and you don't have to suffer. In this post, I'll share practical tips and insights to help you navigate your IBS journey.

Discover how to:

• Uncover Your Triggers: Learn the power of journaling to identify your unique sensitivities.

• Build a Strong Foundation: Prioritize lifestyle factors like sleep, stress, and movement for optimal gut health.

• Understand the Science: Gain knowledge about the mechanisms behind IBS and FODMAPs so you can make informed decisions.

Read on to learn how to take control of your IBS and improve your quality of life.

If I’m not coaching, you’ll find me in my kitchen cooking up a new recipe for my Deliciously Low FODMAP recipe club!

IBS: Your Next Steps

So, you've been diagnosed with IBS. While it might feel overwhelming, there's a lot you can do to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

As a healthcare professional with firsthand experience, I've found that three key steps can significantly impact your journey:

1. Journal Your Journey

Before diving into dietary changes, start a food journal. Track your meals, drinks, symptoms, stress levels, and other lifestyle factors. This baseline information will help you identify potential triggers and measure the impact of your interventions.

2. Build a Strong Foundation

While FODMAPs are often culprits in IBS, they're not the only factors. Lifestyle habits like sleep, stress management, and physical activity play a crucial role. Prioritize these areas to enhance your overall well-being and improve your body's tolerance to FODMAPs and other triggers.

3. Understand the Why

Knowledge is power. Before making dietary changes, take the time to understand the underlying mechanisms. Why do certain foods trigger symptoms? How do FODMAPs impact your gut? By grasping the "why," you can make informed decisions, tailor your approach, and effectively monitor progress.

Ready to Take Control?

If you're frustrated with IBS symptoms and eager to regain control of your health, consider a comprehensive approach that addresses both diet and lifestyle. By following these steps and seeking personalized guidance, you can embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier you.

More Tips and Tools and Free Resources

Ellie’s Korean Style Steak (Low FODMAP)

2 Hours marinate • 20 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Lactose-free • Serves 4 • Ok to make-ahead: Step 1

It’s time to change up your steak night with this bold and savory Korean-inspired recipe. Marinated in a sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a Low FODMAP garlic infusion, this tender steak is packed with umami flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Cranberry Chutney (Low FODMAP)

5 Minutes prep • 15 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Lactose-Free • Makes 2 cups • Ok to make-ahead: Steps 1 - 4

This lightly spicy and sweet cranberry chutney is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast or a delightful spread for any occasion. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of cranberries, apples, and warm spices, this chutney is easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you serve it with roasted meats, cheese, and my seed crackers, or simply enjoy it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.

Perfectly Simple Fillet (Low FODMAP)

30 Minutes prep • 15 Minutes cook • Low FODMAP • Gluten-Free • Lactose-free • Serves 2 • Ok to make-ahead: Step 1

Indulge in the ultimate comfort of a perfectly cooked filet, seared to a nice brown crust and finished to your desired doneness in the oven. This classic recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity, requiring minimal ingredients and effort to deliver maximum flavor. With just a few key techniques, you can transform a humble steak into a gourmet masterpiece that's sure to please everyone at your table.

Become a Patron!

See this new recipe in my FREE recipe club.

To streamline your search through hundreds of existing recipes, I'm moving the release of my new weekly creations to the Recipe Club on Patreon. In the club, you’ll get access to a treasure trove of low-FODMAP goodness, complete with collections and filters to use as your virtual cookbook!

Here's what awaits you in the club:

• Exclusive weekly recipes: Be the first to try my latest delicious low-FODMAP creations!

• Simple & Easy: My recipes continue to focus on readily available ingredients and effortless preparation, perfect for family-friendly meals (no more separate low-FODMAP meal prep!).

• Hundreds of existing recipes: Gain access to my entire library of low-FODMAP recipes, all conveniently organized.

You can join for free or sign up for only $5/month. Your support fuels my passion for creating new, delicious, and easy-to-make low-FODMAP recipes just for you.

Let's go on this delicious low-FODMAP journey together.