These questions come up often, especially for people who are new to gluten- and dairy-free living. I’ve answered them here as clearly and thoughtfully as I can, based on lived experience, careful label reading, and what has worked well for me over time.

Why gluten- and casein-free?

This way of eating began as a doctor-recommended change after medical testing showed that gluten (a protein found in wheat and some other grains) and casein (a protein found in dairy) weren’t a good fit for my body. Going gluten- and casein-free wasn’t a casual experiment for me. It was a serious step toward feeling better.

Digestive issues also run in my family, and watching my mother struggle with severe bowel problems later in life deeply shaped how I think about food, health, and quality of life. This site reflects what I’ve learned along the way about eating in a way that feels supportive, intentional, and sustainable.

Is this medical advice?

No. I’m not a medical professional, and the information shared here is based on personal experience, learning, and curiosity. What works for one person may not work for another.

If you’re dealing with health concerns or making dietary changes, it’s always a good idea to work with a qualified healthcare provider who knows your individual situation.

Who is this site for?

This site is for anyone exploring a gluten-free and casein-free way of eating, whether you’re here for digestive reasons, long-term health, or simply because you feel better eating this way.

It’s especially for people who want food to feel calm and supportive, not stressful or complicated. You don’t have to be perfect, strict, or new to this. You just have to be curious and willing to listen to your body.

This is the kind of site I wish I had when I was starting out.

Are all recipes 100% gluten-free and dairy-free?

Yes. Every recipe shared here is created to be gluten-free and casein-free. That’s the foundation of this site.

I also try to note any ingredients that may be sensitive for some people, and I encourage you to adjust recipes as needed to fit your own body and preferences.

What’s the difference between certified gluten-free and gluten-free?

This is an important question, especially if you’re new to gluten-free living.

Certified gluten-free products are tested and verified by an independent organization to meet strict gluten-free standards. For people with celiac disease, I strongly recommend choosing certified gluten-free products whenever possible, particularly when you’re just getting started. Certification provides an extra layer of confidence that cross-contact has been carefully controlled.

Gluten-free (not certified) means the manufacturer states the product does not contain gluten ingredients, but it may not have gone through third-party testing. Many people tolerate these products just fine, but they require a bit more label awareness and familiarity with the bran.

Why reading labels still matters

Even when a product is labeled gluten-free, reading the ingredient list is essential, especially if you’re avoiding both gluten and dairy.

Gluten and milk can show up in unexpected places, and ingredient lists can change over time. I always read labels on foods I’m not completely sure about, even on products I’ve purchased before.

Using gluten-free scanner apps

I use Gluten Free Scanner and The Gluten Free Scanner apps on my iPhone. These apps can be helpful tools while shopping, especially when you’re unsure.

That said, I always treat apps as a starting point, not a substitute for reading the ingredient list and allergen statement myself.

Why spices deserve extra attention

Spices can contain gluten due to cross-contact during harvesting or processing, shared manufacturing facilities, or added ingredients in blends. Even single-ingredient spices deserve a quick label check.

Spice brands I trust (and still verify)

Two spice brands I consistently trust are McCormick and Simply Organic.

• McCormick clearly labels allergens and does not hide them under vague terms. If a product contains gluten, it is explicitly listed as wheat, barley, rye, or another source. Their single-ingredient spices are gluten-free, but I still check each label for both gluten and dairy.

• Simply Organic is another brand I’ve had very good luck with, and I trust their sourcing and transparency. I still read the label every time.

These brands work well for me, but label reading remains part of my routine.

A gentle reminder

Everyone’s tolerance is different.

What works for me may not work the same way for you, especially if you have celiac disease or are highly sensitive. Over time, you’ll learn which products and brands feel safest for your body—and that confidence builds with experience.

Do you share recipes, products or both?

You’ll find mostly recipes here, along with simple ideas and tips for living gluten-free and casein-free in everyday life. From time to time, I may also share product recommendations that I’ve found helpful in my own kitchen or routine.

Everything shared here is chosen thoughtfully, with an emphasis on practicality and what truly supports a calm, nourishing way of eating.