Gluten-free granola bars recipe

Today I was headed to work, but my eyes kept watering, I was sneezing and overall I just felt like crap.  I didn't want to pass on any kind of sickness for the holidays, so I cancelled my appts and headed back home.  To pass the time at home I made some gluten-free granola bars.  They turned out pretty yummy!

Gluten-free Granola Bars
3 cups gf rolled oats
2/3 cup oat bran
1 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp canola oil
3/4 cup blue agave nectar (can substitute with maple syrup)
6 tbsp melted I can't believe it's not butter stick
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup almonds
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup cranberries
1/2 unsweetened coconut flakes

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees
Mix all of the dry ingredients together.
Mix all of the liquid ingredients in a separate bowl.
Mix dry and liquid together.  Add agave sweetener if mixture is too dry.  Try for a happy medium that is not too sticky and not too dry.
PS- use any dried fruit, nuts or seeds that you like.  Aim for 2-3 cups total.
Grease a 13" x 9" x2" pan.
Pour granola into pan.
Push granola down so that it will bind together.  It is helpful to put a piece of plastic-wrap on and then press down.
Cook for 25-30 minutes.
Mixture may be soft when it comes out of the oven, but it will firm up as it cools.

Cut and enjoy!

Endo- diet

I have taken on the Endo diet since November 1st.  No dairy,  no soy, no gluten, no red meat, only organic meat, lots of fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds.  I've gotten most of my information for the diet from this book: Endometriosis: A key to healing through Nutrition.


Of course, I have had my cheat days.  Sometimes we go to Subway and I cannot resist getting a flatbread sandwich with pepper jack cheese and chicken.  And the holidays are pretty tough, as I make no special requests for food items.  I am fine to eat some of these items, but I definitely notice when I eat gluten.  I get a sharp pain in my lower abdomen.

I wanted to start this blog for a few reasons; 1) There are so many other women in the same exact position as me and I find relief in reading their blogs as well and 2) I can use this as a source to vent.  There is nothing more frustrating than trying to explain your feelings to friends and family and being told "It will happen!" "Stop stressing".  I know they are trying to be reassuring, but it just doesn't help!  I'd rather someone just listen and say "Yeah, that does suck".

I am hoping to use this blog mainly to vent, relate to others and post some new endo recipes.

Have a wonderful day!