If you haven’t heard yet, there’s a new AIP cereal in town! Meet Lovebird Cereal – the unflavored option is 100% elimination stage and the other flavors are Modified AIP / Stage 1 Reintroduction Compliant (read more about Modified vs Core AIP here) … but all of it is 100% AMAZING! And 20% of profits go to support childhood cancer research … walk about win-win-win!

This product is a game-changer for anyone with AIP kiddos … like cerealously … what have y’all been giving your AIP toddlers to munch on with Cheerios literally being off the table!?

What a treat to be able to enjoy a deliciously crunchy (and I do mean crunchy!) AIP cereal to your well-balanced AIP breakfast (you can use any of the 4 AIP Milk options on it – click here for more on that)! It’s also the perfect addition as a quick and easy crunchy topping to a healthy green smoothie bowl, or as an anytime snack … zero guilt – it’s a clean and healthy, gut-friendly option.

Having tried all three, it was a challenge to choose a favorite, but Honey is the winner for me! Cinnamon was a close second when it comes to enjoying it solo, but unsweetened is wonderfully versatile for use as a breading or crunchy topping to casseroles and such – it’s what I use in my AIP Cereal-ously Crispy Baked Chicken Strips – be sure to give them a try!

There are honestly ooodles of amazing AIP recipes that use these yummy AIP “O’s” so I’ve rounded up a bunch of those below! BUT of course you’re going to want a coupon code so you can save on your purchases – am I right!? Use my coupon to save 10% off EVERY ORDER – there’s no expiry! It’s easy to remember – the code is “AIP10”

Special Offer

Save 15% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIP
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

About Lovebird

Lovebird has NOTHING to hide – all of the organic, nutrient-dense, whole food ingredients are clearly listed on the front of the package!

♥ Gluten-Free
♥ Dairy-Free
♥ Non-GMO
♥ Sweetened by Nature – No Refined Sugar or Stevia
♥ No “Natural” Flavors
♥ Nothing Fake!
♥ Perfect served with dairy-free milk like coconut milk, banana milk or tigernut milk (or nut milk if you’ve reintroduced them)

Lovebird cereal comes in three flavors – unsweetened, honey and cinnamon – and all are 100% AIP elimination stage compliant!

Free of inflammatory ingredients and full of gut health boosting nutrition to support your family’s immunity. In a perfect world, you could eat fresh whole foods but life is busy and sometimes you need some convenient options. That’s why Parker created Lovebird foods “to clean up junk food”.

And as if that weren’t enough, Lovebird donates twenty percent (20%) of net profits from the sale of all Lovebird products to nonprofits in support of charitable programming and research in the fight against pediatric cancer. ♥

AIP Lovebird Cereal Recipes

My Easy AIP Recipes!

Chocolatey Cookie Clusters – No-Bake – Fast & Easy!
Chewy Apple Pie Cereal Bars
Cereal-ously Crispy Baked Chicken Strips
Frozen Strawberry Delights

Lovebird AIP Recipe Round-Up:

Banana Cream Pie with Cereal Crust – use coconut oil not ghee
Campfire Banana S’mores – use homemade carob chips not chocolate chips and AIP Marshmallows (10% off Sweet Apricity with Code: AIPCollection) or make your own
Cereal Bars – use homemade carob chips not chocolate chips
Cereal Ice Cream Cake – use tigernut butter unless you’ve reintroduced sunflower seed butter and omit pumpkin seed topping
Chicken Nuggets (Air Fryer or Deep Fried)
Chocolate Cereal S’mores – use coconut oil not ghee, use AIP Marshmallows (10% off Sweet Apricity with Code: AIPCollection) or make your own, use homemade carob bars
Chocolate Covered Cereal Bars – use tigernut butter not almond, use homemade carob chocolate
Chocolate Crispy Squares – use tigernut butter, homemade carob chips not chocolate chips
Coconut Matcha Pie
Crispy Cereal Treats – use AIP Marshmallows (10% off Sweet Apricity with Code: AIPCollection) or make your own and homemade carob chips
Crunchy Cookie Cake Cereal Fudge Bars – use coconut oil not ghee, use an homemade AIP Baking Powder blend, use homemade carob chips/bar, use carob not cacao
Donut Cookies
Elivs Butter Jelly Crunch Nice Cream – use tigernut butter
Graham Crackers
Granola – ensure dried fruits are unsulphured and do not contain non-compliant oils/preservatives/sweeteners
No-Bake Snack Bars – omit seeds, ensure dried fruits are unsulphured and do not contain non-compliant oils/preservatives/sweeteners
No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
No-Rice Crispy Treat “Sushi” – use tigernut butter not nut butter, use carob powder not cacao
Puppy Chow Mix – use tigernut butter and homemade carob chips
Samoa Cereal Bars – use tigernut butter not nut/seed butter, use homemade carob chips/bar
Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow

Ingredient FAQs

Cassava – Lovebird uses Organic Cassava Flour NOT grain or tapioca. Industrialized grains and refined carbohydrates like corn, oats, wheat were clearly off the table because they cause inflammation that can damage the lining of your gut and stress your immune system.

However, there was a decision of Cassava Root vs. Tapioca. Cassava is meaningfully better but it’s 33% more expensive than tapioca. So it’s a decision to use the best ingredient or the cheap ingredient – Lovebird will ALWAYS choose the best.

Lovebird uses organic cassava because it uses the entire cassava root, meaning it is a whole food flour. Unlike tapioca flour, cassava flour uses the entire root; so cassava keeps the fiber, protein, starch, vitamins, and minerals that would otherwise be lost in making tapioca flour. Cassava flour is a good source of prebiotic fiber and is a rich source of nutrients compared to many other starches: vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, and folate.

Some have asked about lead levels in the Cassava that Lovebird uses, so we want to assure you that 1) Lovebird tests for heavy metals and as of the time of writing uses Medallion Labs, 2) Lovebird selects suppliers that follow California’s Prop 65 guidelines (which is the leader in the USA) with third-party testing for heavy metals, and as mentioned above is certified USDA organic. They use a specific formula which you can learn more about here.

Collagen – Lovebird uses grass-fed, pasture-raised collagen to help boost gut health and provide protein. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies and holds everything together. The word collagen literally means “glue” in ancient Greek. Collagen supplementation has been shown to improve bone, joint, tendon, skin, muscle, and cardiovascular health.

Given the rise in popularity, not all collagen is created equal. Parker at Lovebird spent a lot of time researching suppliers and questioned their processing techniques to ensure that their collagen was effective and safely processed. The collagen Lovebird uses is of the best quality and safest processing techniques they could find. The collagen is from grass-fed and grass finished cows that have eaten nothing but grass and foraged their entire lives. It is heavy metal tested, pasture-raised, Kosher, hormone free, pesticide free, Non-GMO, antibiotic free, RBGH-RBST free, and does not use any carriers or solvents.

Sweeteners – Lovebird uses nature to lightly sweeten – NOT science. Honey is an ancient nutrient-rich superfood with healing properties. Honey has anti-diabetic effects that help control blood sugar, antimicrobial properties that help kill bad bacteria, prebiotic properties that help boost gut health, and cardiovascular benefits that help reduce blood pressure. You may walk around grocery stores and see claims of “made with real honey” don’t fall for that marketing “trick”. In fact, products only need a very small amount of honey to use that claim. When you check the ingredient label, you will find a whole gang of “sweeteners” that are actually driven the sweetness such as refined sugar, “natural” flavors, and natural/artificial high potency sweeteners.

Refined sugars and artificial sweeteners drive inflammation and wreak havoc on your health making it easy to avoid using in the recipe. However, “natural” flavors and “natural” high potency sweeteners sound innocent – right? Not exactly and they are often FAR from “natural”.

Natural flavors are defined “as those that derive their aroma or flavor chemicals from plant or animal sources that are manipulated in a lab. In short, they are engineered to not just replicate those “aromas or flavors” but amplify those sensations to trick your body to eat more. Legally, a “natural” flavor can contain up to 20 different ingredients/chemicals/stuff. Nobody really knows what’s in these “lab manipulated” chemistry experiments.

High potency sweeteners such as Stevia and Monkfruit are certainly better than refined sugar – BUT – Lovebird avoids them because they are a “trick”:

Designed to trick your body: our bodies are not designed to handle calorie-free sweeteners. Experiencing a sweet taste from a food that is not going to provide glucose disrupts our body’s sugar-handling process and damages our health.
Created in laboratories: Lovebird prefers chef aprons to science lab coats. Stevia/Monkfruit can contain many other ingredients to boost sweetness and fuel cravings.
Can cause digestive discomfort: it’s very easy to consume too much given that it’s designed to trigger cravings but not satisfy them which can cause bloating and diarrhea.
No real research on their effects: all of the above combined with limited to no research on the negative effects of Stevia causes Lovebird to stay away.

FAQ, News, Recipe

AIP Snack Guide

This post contains affiliate links. Click here to see what that means.

STOP! Wait right there … don’t just scroll to the lists of goodies! This is meant to be an AIP Snack Guide, not just a list of deliciousness. If you’ve been around these parts before, you know that my goal is to empower you on your autoimmune healing journey, and that means providing a bit of education and information along the way. There are actually a few factors to consider … so here we go!

Rumbly In My Tumbly

So, your tummy’s grumbling – is it really hunger pangs or is it just your digestive system doing it’s job? Did you know a growling stomach doesn’t always signal that your body needs nutrients but, rather, that your migrating motor complex, or MMC, is busy at work? Interestingly, interrupting the MMC’s cleansing process by snacking or grazing throughout the day can cause dysbiosis in the gut. Since many of us with autoimmune disease have digestive issues and the root of good health begins in the gut, I encourage you to read up a little further on your migrating motor complex to make sure you’re supporting your body as best you can. (I found this article on the topic very easy to understand.)

Snack Attack

If you think you’re actually having an AIP snack attack I want you first to ask yourself – WHY? Why am I hungry? Am I really hungry? What does my body actually need right now? Have I had enough water to drink today, maybe I’m just thirsty? Am I having a bad day? Am I stressed, emotional or maybe just bored? Have I had enough to eat today? Did what I ate really satisfy me? Have my meals (including breakfast) been well balanced with protein, fats and good carbs? Am I getting enough good, restorative sleep? (People who aren’t getting enough sleep tend to make poor food choices – it’s a fact!)

Because we do a LOT of cooking on the AIP, it can be easy to fall into opting for less filling/satisfying meals like salads with a little protein on top. Or maybe we’re plain sick and tired of cooking and we’ve really been slipping with our food intake, leaning on less than nutrient dense conveniences like AIP pastas. While there’s nothing wrong with these things from time to time, we really need to make sure we’re achieving nutrient sufficiency and balancing our blood sugar, or yes, we’re going to come down with a serious case of the hangries!

Now, all that said, I’m not going to say you should never snack – that would just be ridiculous! What I want to do here is arm you with some quick, easy ideas and healthful AIP convenience options to keep you fueled for when the need arises.

Quick & Easy:

Fresh fruit in general is a decent place to start – just don’t go overboard (confused about fruit and the AIP – read more here)
Apple slices with a drizzle of coconut butter (for some good fats) and a sprinkle of cinnamon
Tigernuts – they’re not nuts but you might be nuts about them! (learn more here)
Dates stuffed with tigernut butter, coconut butter or coconut oil and a pinch of salt – YUM!
Frozen grapes
Melon – keep some cut up and ready to go – it’s refreshing and hydrating!
Fat Bombs and Gummies are easy to make and are more satiating than high sugar options like fruit (lots of recipes in my Facebook Group and a few below)
Veggies and AIP guacamole or AIP hummus (lots of recipes in my Facebook Group and a few below)
Roll compliant sliced meat with a smear of AIP guacamole or hummus and handful of microgreens
Coconut yogurt (make sure it’s compliant or try making your own)
Olives (make sure they’re compliant – try my Amazon Storefronts – USA / Canada / UK)
Sauerkraut or pickled veggies (make sure they’re compliant – lots of recipes in my Facebook Group)
Leftover meatballs (one of my favorite recipes below)
Plantain or sweet potato chips and AIP dip (lots of dip options in my Facebook Group and some below)
Canned tuna, salmon or sardines / chicken salad or tuna salad

URBAN AIP – Nourishing, AIP-compliant meals, treats and crackers delivered right to your door. These meals make staying on protocol easier — and a little more enjoyable.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And save upto 10% with Subscription Boxes

WILD ZORA – Delicious AIP options – meat and veggie bars, freeze-dried stews and soups, dehydrated real fruit snacks, hot cereal and even convenient raw honey sticks! They have variety packs and bulk offerings to help you stock your pantry. Perfect for every day snacking, travel, brown bagging, hiking, camping and emergencies! Just click “shop” and then “AIP Compliant.”
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And save 15% with Coupon Code: ZORAFAM15

SWEETPOTATO AWESOME – Truly awesome AIP snacks with simplest ingredients! Try the AIP Sampler Pack or use it as a guide to help you select the AIP compliant products and just order your favorites!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And Save 10% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIPRECIPES

TIGERNUTS USA – If you’re missing nuts and a quick crunchy snck, these tiny tubers will likely do the trick! Eat them plain or use them whole or flaked in AIP granola, use the flour to easily make tigernut butter and so many more amazing AIP treats and snacks!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

EAT G.A.N.G.S.T.E.R. – Delicious and Convenient AIP Elimination Stage Compliant Baking Mixes.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And Save 10% Off Every Order! Coupon Code: AIP10

SWEET APRICITY – Decadent AIP Compliant Caramels, Marshmallows and Caramel Sauce (perfect for dipping your apple slices in) – be sure to shop the AIP offerings.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And save 10% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIPCOLLECTION

LOVEBIRD AIP CEREAL – If you used to offer your toddler Cheerios as a snack, this is the health AIP compliant option. This AIP cereal has the look and crunch of a traditional cereal, and there’s a great cause attached – every purchase helps support pediatric cancer research.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And Save 15% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIP1

SERENITY KIDS FOODS – These shelf-stable BPA-free pouches of baby and toddler foods are perfect for EVERY AIPer (yes, I’ve personally tried them and use them in a pinch when travelling)! They make a convenient snack and they’re delicious too!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

AIP SNACKING ON AMAZON – I’ve compiled lots of categorized shopping lists on Amazon for AIPers – pantry items, snacks, treats, hard to find ingredients and so much more!
Check out all of my suggestions on Amazon in the AIP Recipe Collection Amazon Storefronts – USA / Canada / UK.

What snack is complete without coffee (substitute) or tea?

SIP HERBALS – The BEST Coffee Substitute we’ve ever tasted!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And Save 10% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIP10

PIQUE TEA – Top Quality Toxin Free Tea! Be sure to avoid adaptogenic blends during the elimination stage of the AIP – stick to the herbal tea blends, Matcha or Turmeric.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

While snacks don’t have to be complicated, sometimes a recipe or two for inspiration is all it takes to keep you on track. There are honestly so many great options, I simply can’t include them all here, so join me in my Facebook Group and utilize the group search – click here to join! (Reminder – all sweets and treats in moderation on the AIP.)

Sweet Snacks

Apple Pie Cereal Bars – AIP Recipe Collection
Berry Coconut Panna Cotta – Downshiftology
Carob Avocado Mousse – Sweet Treats Blog Spot (use tigernut milk or additive free coconut milk)
Cherry Ginger Gummies – Autoimmune Wellness
Chewy Apple Plantain Cookies – Lichen Paleo, Loving AIP
Love Bird Cereal Cookie Clusters – AIP Recipe Collection
Matcha Mint Fat Bombs – Body Unburdened (check out my matcha recommendation here)
Pumpkin Spice Granola – Autoimmune Wellness

Savory Snacks

Avocado Cauliflower Hummus – Unbound Wellness (It’s like a hummus/guacamole hybrid – so good!)
Bacon Beef Liver Pate with Rosemary and Thyme – Autoimmune Wellness
Butternut Breakfast Bites – Adventures in Partaking
Coconut Flour Naan – My Heart Beets
Creamy Avocado Caesar Dressing/Dip – AIP Recipe Collection (it’s coconut free!)
Microwave Salsa – Unskilled Cavewoman
Supah Guac – Wendi’s AIP Kitchen
Superfood Sardine Salad – Phoenix Helix (tasty on top of Sweetpotato Awesome slices – coupon above)
Quick Salmon and Leek Pate – Healing Family Eats
Tzatziki – AIP Recipe Collection

There’s An App For That!

Another great source for all things recipes and meal planning is REAL PLANS Meal Planning App – This app is perfect for pretty much any diet (you can read my full review on it here) but it’s completely customizable and totally geared to those on the AIP – and yes – it has snacks! You can even tweak it further for additional food sensitivities and nutritional requirements and add recipes from around the web or personal favorites – it truly makes life on the AIP easier! There’s even a 10-day money back guarantee so there’s no risk in trying it out – SUBSCRIBE HERE.

FAQ, News, Recipe

Milk Options for the AIP

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Okay, so we’re cutting out dairy on the AIP, nuts and grains too … so what’s left for options when it comes to “milk” on the AIP?

Great question! I’m going to keep it plain and simple – you have 4 options during the elimination phase of the AIP: Coconut Milk, Tigernut Milk (Tigernuts are not nuts, they’re tubers), Avocado Milk and Banana Milk.

All four of these can easily be made at home, and quality additive-free coconut milk (NOT coconut “beverage”) can be found in lots of stores these days (warning – be sure your coconut milk contains nothing but coconut and water – no other ingredients, emulsifiers or thickeners like guar gum, locust bean gum, etc. You can find additive-free coconut milk using my shopping resources – click here, and some brand recommendations here.)

While there are variations of these recipes available online, the following are the basics.Coconut Milk:

4 Cups Hot Water
1 1/2 to 2 Cups Unsweetened Unsulphured Shredded Coconut
Optional Sweetener: 1/2 to 1 tsp Honey or Maple Syrup to Taste or 1 unsulphured pitted date to sweeten
Optional Flavor: 1/2 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract (not flavor), 1/2 cup pureed fresh or frozen strawberries

Place hot but not boiling water and coconut in a high-speed blender. Blend on high speed for several minutes until thick and creamy.
Using a large bowl to catch the milk, pour the mixture through a nut milk bad or fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth and allow to strain.
Once cool enough to handle, use your hands to squeeze out as much milk as possible.
Once you have extracted all of your milk add any optional flavoring and store in the refrigerator in a glass jar for up to 3 days.
NOTE: you will want to use a wide mouth jar so you can scrape any coconut cream off the top that forms after refrigeration for use in other things, or simply shake to reincorporate

Easiest Coconut Milk:

1 Can (500ml) Additive-Free Coconut Milk (coconut and water as ingredients only)
2 Cans Filtered Water
1 tsp Maple Syrup
Pinch of Sea Salt / Himalayan Salt
1/2 tsp Quality Organic Vanilla Extract

Combine all ingredients together in a blender or use a large jug/pot with an immersion blender. If there are considerable coconut solids in the can, you may want to slightly heat the mixture on the stove – I find this helps avoid clumps. Store in the refrigerator in glass jars and shake well before using.

Avocado Milk:

2 Cups Filtered Water
1/2 Cup Diced Avocado (ensure it’s not over ripe and does not have any dark spots)
Pinch of Sea Salt
Optional Sweetener: 1/2 to 1 tsp Honey or Maple Syrup to Taste or 1 unsulphured pitted date to sweeten
Optional Flavor: 1/2 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract (not flavor)

Combine water, avocado and a pinch of salt together in a blender or use an immersion blender. If you want a slightly sweet taste, add the sweetener of choice from above, blend and test the flavor, adjust if necessary.
Serve chilled.
Note: Best consumed or used right away in a recipe

Banana Milk:

2 Cups Filtered Water
1 Banana (ripe but not over-ripe)
Pinch of Sea Salt
Optional Flavor: 1/2 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract (not flavor) or a Pinch of Cinnamon

Combine water, banana and a pinch of salt together in a blender or use an immersion blender. If you want a slightly sweet taste, add the sweetener of choice from above, blend and test the flavor, adjust if necessary.
Serve chilled.
Note: Best consumed or used right away in a recipe

Tigernut Milk:

4 Cups Hot Water (Plus more for soaking)
1 Cup Tigernuts
Optional Sweetener: 1/2 to 1 tsp Honey or Maple Syrup to Taste or 1 unsulphured pitted date to sweeten
Optional Flavor: 1/2 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract (not flavor) or Cinnamon

Place tigernuts in a bowl and cover with warm water, allowing to soak for 24 hours.
After 24 hours, drain and place in a high-speed blender. Add 1/2 a cup of the hot water and blend for 3 minutes. If the mixture is too dry during this time, add a little more of the water and scrape the sides.
Add remaining water and blend for 10-15 minutes.
Using a large bowl to catch the milk, pour the mixture through a nut milk bad or fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth and allow to strain.
Once cool enough to handle, use your hands to squeeze out as much milk as possible.
Once you have extracted all of your milk add any optional flavoring and store in the refrigerator in a glass container for up to 3 days.

BONUS TIP: Don’t waste the pulp! You can dehydrate it and you have tigernut flour! Simply spread the pulp on a large, rimmed baking tray and place it in a 160 to 175 degree oven for 4-6 hours or until dry. Be sure to stir it a few times during the drying process. Once it has completely dried pulse it in a food processor until it is the consistency of powder or flour. If you can’t get it completely fine, that’s not a problem – tigernut flour tends to be a little gritty. You can choose to sift it to get rid of any larger pieces.

Sweet Potato Milk:

1 Large White Sweet Potato (Learn more about various varieties of white sweet potatoes and where to find them – click here)
4 Cups of Filtered Water (plus more after cooking – see instructions)
Optional Flavor: 1/2 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract (not flavor) or Cinnamon

Add filtered water to a medium pot. Peel and chop the sweet potato into 1 inch cubes and immediately add to the pot of water.
Bring to a boil over medium heat and continue to boil for 10-15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are soft.
Use a slotted spoon and transfer the sweet potatoes to a blender.
Pour the cooking water into a large measuring cup and add additional filtered water to equal a total of 4 cups of liquid.
Add water to the blender and blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy.
The “milk” should be plenty sweet enough, but if you like you can add in your optional flavors now and 1/2 to 1 tsp of pure maple syrup if you wish.
Store in the refrigerator in a glass container for up to 3 days or the freezer for 3 months.

Learn More:

Want to know the ins and outs, what’s and whys of eliminating dairy and options for reintroductions when the time comes? Check out the following articles.

The Great Dairy Debate
Why I Don’t Need to Worry About Calcium
Goat Milk and the Benefits of A2 Dairy
The Best Dairy Choice for Growing Children

FAQ, News

Autoimmune Protocol Reintroduction Cookbook – Review

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The elimination stage of the AIP is NOT meant to last forever, but how do you feel about the reintroduction process? Many find the thought of it completely overwhelming and some are afraid to move beyond eliminations because they’ve seen so many improvements in their health they don’t want to risk throwing anything off. It’s really important, however, that we not get stuck .. we need to keep moving forward on our healing journeys! Thankfully, now we can move forward with confidence thanks to the help of The Autoimmune Protocol Reintroduction Cookbook – the first cookbook dedicated to the reintroduction phases of the AIP.

This amazing new book comes to us from trained chef, Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and AIP Coach, Kate Jay of the AIP blog, Healing Family Eats. Kate is passionate about making sure our healing journey is delicious, nutrient dense and in her new cookbook as easy as possible, guiding us through the challenges of reintroductions step-by-step through each stage so that we don’t trigger an autoimmune flare.

“My aim is to encourage and support you as you navigate the reintroduction phase of the AIP. The recipes have been developed with gentle reintroductions in mind, taking you through all four stages, with the ultimate goal of you finding your own unique template.” ~ Kate

While the focus of Kate’s latest cookbook is reintroductions, a large number of the recipes are easily adapted for those in the elimination stage, making it a wonderful, motivational handbook even if you’re just getting started on the AIP.

It’s a feast for the eyes, filled with beautiful photos and over 100 amazing recipes to tantalize your taste buds, each recipe indicating at a glance; which of the four reintroduction stages it’s suitable for, whether or not it can be made elimination stage compliant, if it’s coconut free or can be made that way, if it can be made low-FODMAP, and even if it’s freezer friendly.

Here are a handful of recipes I’m eyeing:

Cornish Pasty (elimination friendly)
Chocolate Sweet Potato Mud Cake (elimination friendly)
Windfall Country Mustard
Nightshade-Free Brown Sauce (elimination friendly)
Sticky Toffee Pudding (elimination friendly)
Mint Mayonnaise
Rum ‘N Raisin Stracciatella Ice Cream
Choc-Hazelnut Hummus
Fish Tacos with Watermelon Tomato Salsa (elimination friendly)
Shrimp & Vegetable Tempura (elimination friendly)

On top of all the amazing recipes, you get a guide to what the AIP is and what it isn’t, food lists, how to transition to the AIP, tips and best practices, troubleshooting advice for why the AIP might not be working for you, how and when to approach reintroductions, how to identify reactions, how to avoid flares and handle an unsuccessful reintroduction – it’s just what every AIPer needs.

Let The Autoimmune Protocol Reintroduction Cookbook be your reassuring companion through every step of your AIP journey!
Grab your copy on Amazon: USA / CANADA / UK

Not ready to jump into The Autoimmune Protocol Reintroduction Cookbook just yet? Check out Kate’s mini elimination stage e-cookbook “Healing Eats – 25 Recipes to Heal the Gut While Soothing the Soul.”

Enter to win a copy of The Autoimmune Protocol Reintroduction Cookbook

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* GIVEAWAY OPEN TO RESIDENTS OF THE USA ONLY *

ONE GRAND PRIZE will be awarded – 1 Print copy of the Autoimmune Protocol Reintroduction Cookbook by Kate Jay

Contest open until end of day June 26th, 2021 (EST)
Winner will be announced and contacted by June 28th, 2021
This giveaway is sponsored by Kate Jay at Healing Family Eats
Prize package will be shipped by Kate or her publisher
This giveaway is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Instagram or Facebook
Void where prohibited

FAQ, News, Product Review

Araza Natural Beauty – Product Review

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By now you know that the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) is about much more than food, it’s a lifestyle, a shift to a healthy, holistic way of living which includes ditching the toxins from our lives and using quality, non-toxic clean beauty products, like Araza Natural Beauty.

For as long as I can remember skin care has been an important part of daily life. My older sister suffers from a rare skin condition that she’s had from birth, so my mom was pretty proactive to make sure her three girls used quality skincare products.

Unfortunately, when it came to makeup, we were pretty much left to our own devices, and if we wanted to wear it we bought it ourselves. During my mid to late teen years and then into my 20’s and 30’s my skin got worse because I didn’t make good choices. I used low-quality, toxic, cheap makeup from the drug store and it became a vicious cycle of make-up, clean-up, cover-up, make-up and start all over again – every day! It makes me cringe to think about all of the garbage I slathered on my lips every day (the thinnest, most vulnerable skin on our bodies)! Even before I started wearing makeup, I was all about the flavored, scented lip balms and gooey lip glosses.

For a LOT of years I was slowly poisoning my body. I wasn’t nourishing my skin from the outside or the inside. Cystic acne came cyclically – it was embarrassing and painful and I wish I had been in tune enough with my body to start looking into root causes back then, because going gluten and dairy free really turned things around for me.

Fast forward to when my health took a major crash and I finally got it through my head that I had to get serious about the toxins in my life!

Clean beauty products for me was a tougher aspect of the AIP to tackle. We keep to a pretty strict budget, so I’ve never been one to spend a lot of money on myself for frivolous things, and having never paid a lot for makeup it was a bit of a shock to see what quality costs. But, in the end I knew it had to be done – it’s important to address ALL the areas of the AIP lifestyle in order to see real results.

Unfortunately, not all clean beauty is created equal – some claim to be clean but aren’t, some measure up on the ingredient list but fall down on performance. Today I’m thrilled to share with you a product line that delivers on all fronts – meet Araza Natural Beauty, the World’s First Paleo Certified Makeup!

Araza makeup follows similar guidelines to that of the Paleo Diet, meaning it’s strictly tested and certified to be free from legumes, dairy, gluten, grains and anything artificial and harmful.

Araza products are crafted with healthy fats, organic plant-based ingredients, and minerals which work together to feed and nourish your skin.

The Araza Fruit grows in the jungles of the Amazon and boasts some pretty impressive skin loving benefits; like reversing the visible signs of aging and boosting collagen production. It’s highly regarded for its nutraceutical properties like a high polyphenol, carotenoid and Vitamin C content.

Instead of conventional makeup ingredients, which contain everything from endocrine-disrupting chemicals to toxic pigments, Araza’s makeup line allows you to play with modern, fun color while feeding and nourishing your skin.

Araza ingredients are 100% natural, ethically sourced and most are Certified Organic and non-GMO.

A Special Offer!

As an Araza Ambassador, I’m pleased to provide you with an exclusive offer from my partners – woohoo!

SAVE 15% off your first order
Coupon Code: AIP – click here to shop!

Product Performance:

I want to share my personal experience with just a few of Araza’s products, but first I want to tell you that you shouldn’t fret about choosing the right colors (which is always a worry no matter if you shop in person or online).

Araza offers fantastic sample sizes for purchase so you can properly test before committing to a full-size product, and I was thrilled with the help they provided in selecting just the right shades for my skin tone. If you’re struggling to know which is best, reach out to Araza directly and leave it to the experts, they did a fantastic job and matched my skin precisely.

Now … on to the review!

All In One Coconut Cream Foundation – I LOVE THIS STUFF! “It’s Skincare + Makeup. A light-weight foundation that offers sheer to medium coverage depending on application. Similar to a bb cream with slightly more coverage.” When I first received my order and looked at it I thought it was going to be heavy and oily and thought there was NO WAY it would stand up to a super active day or be enough coverage for me … I was wrong! It really is light-weight, it feels like you have no makeup on, it’s natural looking providing enough coverage without looking too “made-up,” and it lasts all day!

I’m not one for selfies, but here I am in my less than 5 min Araza face.

Primer + Finishing Translucent Clay Powder – Since I have had oily to combination skin all my life, I’ve always worn a liquid foundation PLUS a translucent finishing powder to set my foundation. Araza’s clay powder is very fine and very light in color, so it doesn’t work for me like my old products – but it’s even better! Since it’s a primer, I very lightly dust my face with a tiny bit of it before I apply my All In One Coconut Cream Foundation. THEN, over my T-zone I very lightly apply a tiny amount of powder with a big fluffy brush, just as you’d powder your nose – this off-sets the lovely dewy appearance provided by the foundation and eliminates any look of shine – it’s perfect!

Fresh Mineral Cheek Color – While I was skeptical about this loose powder blush, I have to say it performs! In my old makeup I’d end up totally washed out by the end of day, but Araza’s fresh earth pigments look natural and the color stays. I was concerned about spilling the product, but it comes with a perfect little powder dispenser so you can shake the container to dispense a small amount into the container for your brush.

Sweet Mint Healthy Lip Balm – Okay, what’s there to get excited about? … it’s just lip balm after all! Well, for me, I have developed an EXTREME sensitivity to products I put on my lips ever since I had a severe allergic reaction to lanolin of all things (yes, we’re talking swollen lips like the worst bo-tox job you’d ever seen) and then just about every lip balm since (even quality ones) have caused problems, so I was super excited to try Araza! I’m so happy to report that this lip balm is perfect for me … no issues at all! I love the sturdy lipstick style packaging that holds up better in pockets. It has a slight fragrance and is smooth, not waxy or oily on application. My lips thank you Araza!

Rejuvenating Coconut Lip Color – “A lip-smacking hybrid somewhere between a gloss and a lipstick ~ Creamy and never sticky!” Again … I LOVE THIS STUFF! I haven’t tried any darker colors yet so I can’t speak to how the deeper colors last but I’m all about the Sugar Poppy .. it’s the perfect, subtle peachy pink shade that wears more like a hydrating lip balm than a lipstick (as I’ve aged, I tend to like a more muted shade on my lips),.

Citrus Illuminating Raw Beauty Oil – Having struggled with oily, blemish-prone skin for many years I am always hesitant to use oils on my skin and have tended to lean toward moisturizing creams and lotions instead. That said, this girl turned the big five-oh last year and I’ve welcomed the addition of healing, nutritive oils like this one. This smells AMAZING, feeds and nourishes my skin and doesn’t block pores.

Araza Gives Back!

Not only are their products amazing, so are their hearts! ♥
Araza gives back by donating 1% of their profits to help victims of sex trafficking and domestic violence recover and heal via The Jonah Project.

They also give back to our environment by using sustainable packaging options and they offer a recycling program for 6 of their product types which are typically not recyclable. Learn more about Araza’s Recycling Program on their website, what’s eligible and what you get in return when you send in your empty product containers – just click here.

Don’t Forget Your Discount …

SAVE 15% off your first order with Coupon Code: AIP – click here to shop!

News

AIP Gift Guide

This post contains affiliate links. Click here to see what that means.

Let’s face it … as AIPers, we’re a tough nut (errr … Tigernut?) to crack when it comes to gift shopping! So, I’ve put this carefully curated gift guide together that’s brimming with AIP friendly treasures and discounts that are in alignment with your healing journey – it’ll make gift-giving stress-free for your loved ones and easy-peasy for you to drop hints (wink wink).

From self-care splurges to everyday essentials, this guide has got it all wrapped up with love and topped with a big virtual bow!

How to Shop This Guide:

I’ve sorted goodies into fun categories:
✨ Subscriptions – Because we all love gifts that keep on giving.
✨ Books & Cookbooks – Fuel for the AIP brain and belly.
✨ Educational Gifts – Knowledge is power (and healing!).
✨ Food & Snacks – Compliant treats = happy AIPers.
✨ Lifestyle Gifts – Because AIP is about living well.
✨ My Personal Picks – Things I’ve treated myself to or been gifted and highly recommend!

This guide isn’t just a list; it’s your AIP holiday helper, making shopping joyful and stress-free. Happy gifting, and may your holidays be filled with love, healing, and compliant goodies!

Happy Shopping! ♥

Under $10

Low Cost Subscription – As Low as $7/month! – Meal planning? Simplified. Perfect for AIP and beyond (hello, Whole30, Keto and macro counters out there), this app takes the guesswork out of planning, shopping, and cooking. It’s completely customizable for YOUR needs – perfect for EVERYONE, not just AIPers! Give a monthly or annual gift subscription for as low as $7/month. It really helps take the stress out of meal planning, batch cooking and staying on track with your AIP goals – I love it!
GIVE A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION or SUBSCRIBE FOR YOURSELF * SAVE 40% off your first invoice with code: REALDEAL40 *

Beat Brain Fog & Stress – Brain fog, who? These cognitive boost compression sleeves were a game-changer for me—improved focus, reduced stress, and clarity like never before!
Sadly, production has stopped on this sleeve, as the company transitions to disposable patches (see below). Grab one while they’re still available. Prices have been SLASHED and are a fraction of the original price at just $9.99!
Shop for eSmartr Sleeves Here

Wearable wellness magic from SuperPatch – A 100% non-invasive, drug-free solution that can support the immune system and provide symptom relief to those suffering from fatigue, brain-fog, pain, balance issues and more! They sound too good to be true, but they’re backed by science and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. My family has seen IMPRESSIVE results in a short time. Learn how it works – click here.
Shop the SuperPatch Company

Under $25

Jade/Rose Quartz Facial Massage Set
Stress melts away, lymph flows, and self-care feels a little extra fancy … but without breaking the bank. I use mine almost every night while sitting in front of the T.V. It’s easy to use but hard to go wrong with your technique (but there are plenty of free videos for how to use them on YouTube).
Grab a set in the Lifestyle section of my AIP Amazon Storefronts – USA / Canada / UK.

AIP Education – The Autoimmune Protocol e-book by Dr. Sarah Ballantyne is the go-to resource for everyone on the AIP! Get instant access for just $19.99.

Learn even more from the pioneer of the AIP – it’s like university for your health! Click these links for her courses and books.

Wellness Education & Cookbooks – Both the Autoimmune Protocol Reintroduction Cookbook (perfect for every stage of the protocol to keep you on track) and The Healing Mindset( covering some of the often over-looked reasons we’re not able to progress on our healing journeys) are great gifts!
LOTS more suggestions in the resources section of on my website – click here, and in my AIP Amazon Storefronts – USA / Canada / UK.

Under $50

Warming Comfort / Self-Care – These are my winter must-have for anyone with Raynaud’s or Hashi’s, anyone that works outside, or someone that just wants to be a little more comfortable on a winter walk. Bonus: They come in chic colors and styles and fit just about any budget – USA / Canada / UK.

Acupressure Mat – While it might look a little like a torture device, this simple and inexpensive acupressure mat & pillow set can help support deep sleep, relaxation, healthy circulation, relaxation of tense muscles and relief from stress. Don’t let the prickly appearance fool you—this is my secret weapon for better sleep and muscle relaxation (read more about that here). There are a variety of offerings and levels of quality – pick what’s right for you and your budget – you can’t go wrong. – USA / Canada / UK

Any Budget! – Kitchen Gadgets, Small Appliances, Sustainable Living, AIP Lifestyle & More – You’ll find a large selection of some of my favorite things in my AIP Amazon Storefronts – USA / Canada / UK. A few things that have been invaluable on my healing journey are – a good quality kettle with a 100% stainless interior, quality water filter, mandolin slicer, glass food containers, massage slippers, a magic bag or heating pad … you won’t be short of ideas in my shops!

$100 Range +/-

Health Tech – Gamification can be a great way to help you reach your health goals of daily movement, hydration, meditation, sleep and stress management. I recently received a gift card from my BFF for Amazon and decided to treat myself to a health tracker. I grabbed a FitBit Inspire3 because of it’s petite size, and it offers most of the features I want – even without a subscription! We also use Neuro Apollo and Red Light to help with stress and sleep. Check out some great options in the lifestyle section of my Amazon Storefronts – USA / Canada / UK.

Kala Red Light Therapy – For those battling chronic pain and autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, thyroid disease and more, red light therapy is not only a thoughtful but potentially transformative gift to help support your loved one’s healing journey. My husband and I have a Kala Red Light Pro Panel and use it every day! Kala also offers sauna blankets, massage guns, infrared saunas and more!
Shop Here – SAVE 15% by shopping with my link!

Gift Cards

You can never go wrong with a gift card, and they fit every budget! I’ve tried to list above the shops above that offer gift cards, so be sure to watch for those above. A top suggestion is always Amazon Gift Cards – grab them here – USA / Canada / UK.

ARAZA NATURAL BEAUTY – The first Paleo Certified makeup that’s perfect for the AIP lifestyle. Natural beauty that supports overall wellness and inspires a healthy, vibrant life. Worried about color matching? Send Araza a picture of your best friend, mom, sister, etc. to service@arazabeauty.com and they’ll help you pick the perfect products + colors for them – or give them a gift card!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Save 15% Off Your First Order with Coupon Code: AIP

AIP SHOPPING ON AMAZON! – Looking for useful gift ideas to support the AIP lifestyle? I’ve compiled lists of ideas and personal favorites for every budget – everything from stocking-stuffer sized gifts to slippers, water bottles, weighted blankets, small lifestyle home appliances, exercise equipment and even health trackers in the lifestyle section – or you can find an assortment of compliant snacks, cooking ingredients, kitchen tools, appliances and gadgets, sustainable living products and more! If you’re shopping during Prime Days / Black Friday, the sales will automatically come up in my categories!

If after looking through all of these gift ideas you’re still not sure, you can choose from a variety of gift cards for Amazon and so much more – I’ve compiled some easy access for these as well!

Check out all of my gift ideas and shopping lists in the
AIP Recipe Collection Amazon Storefronts – USA / Canada / UK.

NuLeaf Naturals – CBD Products

Elevate your health with NuLeaf Naturals! While research is still ongoing, CBD has been touted to be helpful in reduce inflammation, pain, stress and anxiety. If you want to try it for your autoimmune journey, you’ll want to check out NuLeaf Naturals!

Why NuLeaf? After a lot of research I’ve decided to partner with NuLeaf because they’re committed to providing our customers with the highest-grade cannabinoid products on the market. I’ve tried other options and felt little difference, but have found that NuLeaf offers a much wider variety of CBD products – from liquid to gummies, gel caps, topical creams and even CBD for pets! Of course, they’re third party tested and rigorously screened for mold (very important for people like me). I personally love the THC gummies to help reduce the effects of stress, make me feel calm and help me get a quality sleep so my body can properly rest and recover.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP

WISE OAK SOAPERY – All-natural, toxin free skin and hair, lip and body balms, gift baskets and gift cards all lovingly hand-crafted by one of our fellow autoimmune warriors.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And save 10% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIPRECIPE

KI AROMA – My favorite source for top-quality essential oils you can trust, plus they carry ingredients for making your own personal care products. The best part – you don’t over-pay for fancy labels or multi-level marketing platform sales. CLICK TO SHOP – (Not affiliated)

REAL PLANS Meal Planning App – This app is perfect for pretty much any diet (you can read my full review on it here) but it’s completely customizable and totally geared to those on the AIP! You can even tweak it further for additional food sensitivities and nutritional requirements – it truly makes life on the AIP easier! Give a monthly, quarterly or annual gift subscription for as low as $7/month.
GIVE A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION or SUBSCRIBE FOR YOURSELF * Get a BIG Discount when you sign up for my newsletter – click here

ButcherBOX Meat Subscriptions & One-time Gifts – The most popular meat subscription in the USA for high quality meat you can trust; 100% grass-fed and pasture raised beef, free-range organic chicken, heritage breed pork, and wild caught Alaskan salmon directly to your door. A delicious no-hassles, no strings attached subscription you’ll you can cancel at any time. Watch for their generous FREE offers for subscribers or send a one-time gift.
SUBSCRIBE HERE – or – This way to One-Time GIFT BOXES

truLOCAL Meat Subscription & Gift Boxes! – A simple monthly meat delivery service with customizable plans that are commitment-free, so you can skip, pause, or cancel at any time – no strings attached! TRULY LOCALLY Sourced Canadian Meat!
BONUS – they also offer one-time gift boxes at various times throughout the year – just watch for availability in the top menu of their website.
Current Offer – FREE Meat for a Year!
SUBSCRIBE HERE

Starting out on the AIP, many people turn to the internet for some quick resources, but there are plenty who prefer something tangible to hold in their hands or an e-book to download so everything they need is in one place.

I’ve also had many tell me that due to their autoimmune disease they find it terribly difficult to spend hours on the computer, phone or table reading e-books and they prefer a printed resource they can bookmark and highlight.

No matter what you prefer, I’ve compiled a round-up of AIP and general health resources that I either personally own or that have been recommended by our AIP Recipe Collection members and the AIP Community. Check out the selection of recommended books and cookbooks in my resources section – just click here and scroll down to Good Reads & Cookbooks. You can also find an expanded selection in my Amazon Storefronts – click here for the USA / Canada / UK.

GRAIN-FREE BAKING ACADEMY – Frustrated with your AIP Baking Results? Learn to create amazing allergen-free baked goods everyone will enjoy!
• The Bread Course
• The Cake Course
• The Holiday Cookie Course
• Grain-Free Baking Bundle – SAVE 15% with Code: AIPRECIPECOLLECTION
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

If you’re looking for the main educational resources as you start out on the autoimmune protocol, I encourage you to click the links below – I can’t think of a better gift for anyone who truly wants to find success on their autoimmune healing journey.

The Autoimmune Protocol e-book by Dr. Sarah Ballantyne – Every AIPer should own it! – Just $19.99
The Gut Health Collection – Get the guidebook and the cookbook to help implement all that you learn about building a diet for optimal health, from the ground up.
Browse The Paleo Mom Shop – e-books, in-print books and Nutrivore guides.
Nutrivore – Focusing on nutrient density is the key to good health. Dr. Ballantyne’s Nutrivore resources help us take a deep dive into nutrient awareness so we know which foods we should be concentrating on for our AIP healing journey. Grab digital resources, guides, checklists and fun merch.

URBAN AIP – Give the gift of nourishing, AIP-compliant meals with Urban AIP. Handcrafted, nutrient-dense, and delivered right to their door, these meals make staying on protocol easier — and a little more enjoyable. Gift Cards Available too!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And save upto 10% with Subscription Boxes

WILD ZORA – Delicious AIP options – meat and veggie bars, freeze-dried stews and soups, dehydrated real fruit snacks, hot cereal and even convenient raw honey sticks! They have lots of bulk offerings as well and even an AIP gift box! Perfect for every day snacking, travel, brown bagging, hiking, camping and emergencies! Just click “shop” and then “AIP Compliant.” Gift Cards Available too!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And save 15% with Coupon Code: ZORAFAM15

LOVEBIRD AIP CEREAL – The first AIP cereal with the look and crunch of a traditional cereal, and a great cause attached – every purchase helps support pediatric cancer research
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And Save 15% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIP

SIP HERBALS – The BEST Coffee Substitute we’ve ever tasted!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And Save 10% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIP10

PIQUE TEA – Top Quality Toxin Free Tea! Be sure to avoid adaptogenic blends during the elimination stage of the AIP – stick to the herbal tea blends, Matcha or Turmeric. If you’re unsure which to choose, try a Pique gift card instead!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

AUTOIMMUNE HEALTH & NUTRITION – The ONLY truly AIP compliant protein powder – and it’s DELICIOUS!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

EAT G.A.N.G.S.T.E.R. – Delicious and Convenient AIP Elimination Stage Compliant Cookie & Cake Mixes that you can use in a variety of ways. Gift Cards Available too!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And Save 10% Off Every Order! Coupon Code: AIP10

SWEET POTATO AWESOME – Truly awesome AIP snacks with simplest ingredients! Try the AIP Sampler Pack or use it as a guide to help you select the AIP compliant products and just order your favorites!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And Save 10% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIPRECIPES

SWEET APRICITY – Decadent AIP Compliant Caramels, Marshmallows and Caramel Sauce- be sure to shop the AIP offerings or give a gift card if you’re unsure!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And save 10% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIPCOLLECTION

TIGERNUTS USA – If you miss nuts on the AIP you have to try TigerNuts – they’re not nuts, they’re tubers! They can be eaten as a snack (as a whole tigernut, flaked or chopped), there is tigernut oil that you can use in salad dressing, beauty care or to make tigernut butter, you can use the flour in AIP baked goods, granola and even transformed into a replacement for nut-butter or nut milk!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

PERFECT SUPPLEMENTS – A great resource for quality supplement brands we can trust! I personally love Perfect Supplements for their collagen and gelatin powders, convenient bone broth powder and their liver and organ meat capsules – because offal meat is something that many AIPers have a hard time working into their diets. Gift Certificates Available!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP: And Save 10% Off Every Order with Coupon Code: AIP10

CASA DE SANTE – This shop specializes in low FODMAP products for those with specific digestive senstitivies. There isn’t a huge array of products that are completely elimination stage compliant but there are some convenient options – just choose to shop by the AIP diet.
CLICK TO SHOP

truLOCAL – Subscription & Gift Boxes! – A simple monthly meat delivery service with customizable plans that are commitment-free, so you can skip, pause, or cancel at any time – no strings attached! TRULY LOCALLY Sourced Canadian Meat! That means you’re supporting YOUR LOCAL farmers!
BONUS – they also offer one-time gift boxes at various times throughout the year – just watch for availability in the top menu of their website.
SUBSCRIBE HERE and choose your offer

AIP ON AMAZON – I’ve compiled lots of lists on Amazon for AIPers – pantry items, snacks, treats, hard to find ingredients and so much more!
Check out all of my gift ideas and shopping lists on Amazon in the AIP Recipe Collection Amazon Storefronts – USA / Canada / UK.

FAQ, News, Product Review

Serenity Kids – Product Review

I’m really excited to introduce you to an awesome product – Serenity Kids – nutrient dense baby food pouches that offer many AIP elimination stage compliant selections. Now, if you know me, you know I don’t have kids … so you might be wondering why am I so enthusiastic about this product!?

First of all, I’ll tell you I keep referring to them as Serenity FOODS instead of Serenity KIDS, because while they were initially created for babies and kids, they’re actually suitable for EVERYONE! I’ll tell you more about that, including why Serenity and these adorable food pouches resonate with me personally (keep reading to find out) … but first let me share a little about the Serenity Kids and their line up of products!

Nutrient Dense, Simple Ingredients
Ethically Sourced Pastured Meats
Sustainable Organic, Non-GMO Vegetables
Healthy Fats
NEW Line with Gut Friendly Bone Broth!
Low, Low Sugar Content
AIP Compliant (many of their offerings are elimination stage compliant)
Shelf-stable BPA-Free Pouches (recyclable lids and a free RECYCLABLE POUCH PROGRAM since most city recycling programs don’t accept them)
Winners of the Clean Label Project Purity Award – Kind of a BIG deal!
In addition to making babies healthier, they’re committed to leaving them a healthier planet

Where to Shop:

If you’ve been following me for a while, you may have noticed that the coupon from Serenity kids is no longer available on my coupon page. I had previously partnered with them to promote their products, but they’ve recently switched tracking platforms again—without any notice. Unfortunately, that means my promotional efforts have continued to go unrewarded for an unknown length of time. Since this has happened more than once, I’ve decided not to keep rebuilding all of my promotional materials each time they make a change. Instead, I’ll be directing you to their products on Amazon, where most people prefer to shop anyway. You’ll find them conveniently organized in my AIP & Paleo Babies and Kids section of my Amazon shop. (As always, thank you so much for supporting my work—purchases made through my Amazon shop help me earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)

Why Serenity “Kids” is for Everyone!

First of all, they’re an extremely convenient way to carry a healthy, nutrient dense snack with you (they’re meant to be consumed at room temperature but you could warm them a little by immersing the pouch in a cup of hot water if you prefer).

For adults – Really? Yes – absolutely! Check out the nutritional value on these products … their simple ingredients make them perfect for AIPers (think grab-n-go breakfast, snacks, if you’re in hospital or dealing with medical procedures), backpacking, camping, road-tripping, camping and get this – even dogs can use ’em (my dog eats a whole food, homemade diet and would wrestle me for these)! And, since they’re shelf-stable for up to 18 months, you can easily stock up so you have them on hand when you need them.

Why Serenity Resonates With Me

When I first started researching Serenity I was extremely excited by the possibilities for adults! Why? Because the first autoimmune disorder I was diagnosed with was Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis (EGE/EGID) – a rare inflammatory disease that effects the entire digestive system, starting at the esophagus all the way through the colon and intestines. (A similar condition, Eosinophilic Esophagitis or EOE for short, a disease of the esophagus also exists and is most often diagnosed in children.)

What’s so scary about EGE/EGID/EOE? 1) You very often can’t swallow food without extreme pain, panic or choking which can lead to extreme food fears, 2) This often leads to extreme malnutrition and/or is accompanied by nutrient absorption issues, and 3) Traditional medical treatment protocols include liquid steroid concoctions and can involve horrific liquid or elemental diets containing synthetic vitamins or in some cases tube feeding!

After being hospitalized a number of times and finally receiving my diagnosis I was completely depleted. I had ZERO energy to prepare foods and was extremely malnourished (massive hair loss, all of my fingernails and toenails fell off, an abrupt 40lb weight loss, incredible rashes and more). The smell of food prep created extreme nausea and vomiting and the stress and anxiety of simply sitting down to try to eat brought me to tears before I even began. I soooo wish I’d known about Serenity Foods back then – it definitely would have made life a lot easier.

I’m thrilled to say that the AIP has helped improve my condition tremendously, and I’m no longer in a position to need a product like this for meals, but I will tell you that these are amazing to keep on hand when you’re needing a nutritious snack on the go. They’re perfectly tasty at room temperature, but I personally prefer them heated – simply immerse a pouch in a cup of hot water for a few minutes and you’re good to go. (You can read more testimonials, and how Serenity is helping adults and kids alike on their blog – click here)

Before I wrap up, I want to suggest one final demographic that also resonates with me for this product – the elderly. All too often older ones fall into the horrible belief that meal replacement shakes are great, fast options to give them all the nutrients they need when they’re too tired or don’t feel like cooking for themselves … because after-all the labels tout how many “wonderful” vitamins they contain and the doctors recommend them! YIKES! I won’t get into the details about these products, but rest-assured that we did a TON of research on them and their contents when the doctors handed me my diagnosis and a six-pack of these things and tried to tell me that I might have to rely heavily on them. (If you don’t believe me about these meal replacement shakes, feel free to do a little digging on the internet about them if you like – and read this cancer patient’s blog, it’s staggering and will stick with you.) Now, I’m not recommending that Serenity Kids is going to replace every-day adult meals, but they can certainly be used in confidently as nutrient-dense snacks or the occasional meal replacement.

Disclaimer: Serenity Kids was kind enough to provide me with samples of their product. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About Serenity:

Visit their website where you’ll quickly learn about the nutrition behind their products, where they source their ingredients, their environmentally focused mission and how they’re giving back.

FAQ, News, Recipe

Egg Replacements

This post contains affiliate links. Click here to see what that means.

AIP baking is a tricky thing, and even more of an exact science than regular baking, so you’ll have heard me say many times in the the AIP Recipe Collection Facebook Group that I do NOT recommend substitutions in AIP baking! You can read more on the topic in my article Substitutions in AIP Cooking & Baking so you understand why this is so important.

That said, many AIP recipes call for gelatin or agar agar powder or gelatin eggs, or if you’ve found a paleo recipe it may call for a flax or chia egg! All of this can be quite confusing, especially since some of them require that you make a gelatin egg separately and others just have you adding gelatin to the mix.

So, what’s the breaking news on AIP egg replacements (see what I did there)? And, can’t I just use the egg replacements available at the grocery store? Here are the answers you’ve been looking for!

The Purpose of Eggs in Baking

Eggs are used for several reasons in baking; binding (holding things together like meatloaf and meatballs – this is the job of the whites), leavening (rising and creating a light fluffy texture – this is the job of the yolk), for moisture and also for flavor and appearance (often aids in browning).

Can we cook and bake with out them? Absolutely!

Will the replacements yield perfect results? No – unfortunately there is nothing that will ever perfectly replace an egg! BUT we can get pretty darn deliciously close!

Things to consider:

Binding – You’ll find that most meatloaf and meatball recipes work perfectly well without eggs, or maybe you just need to add a little mashed veg in as an alternate binder.

Leavening – You’ll find many AIP baking recipes call for cream of tartar – this is a leavening agent and should never be omitted from a recipe just because you don’t have it – the results will literally be a flop.

Moisture & Appearance – Most AIP recipes make up for eggs in other ways, and recipe creators go to great lengths to ensure the the dishes they’re presenting look and taste as close to traditional recipes as possible – so don’t mess with a good thing – follow the AIP recipes folks! If you haven’t checked out the post I suggested, here it is again – Substitutions in AIP Cooking & Baking.

In general, it’s not a good idea to try to recreate a traditional recipe into an AIP compliant version if you’re replacing more than 1 or 2 eggs. Why? Because more than this and you’re at risk of your recipe caving in, coming out too dry, too wet, crumbly, too dense, or just not what you expected.

Commercial Egg Replacements

Let’s start here since this would be considered the path of least resistance and most enticing for some.

The reason why we don’t use these is the ingredients -most contain grain potato starch, corn starch, guar gum and the like. So, sorry folks, this option just doesn’t work.

Apple Sauce, Mashed Bananas, Pumpkin & Avocado

Next we’ll move on to old, traditional favorite substitutions that our mothers and grandmothers would have used. In general I don’t see a lot of AIP baked opting for these substitutes now-a-days – most AIP recipe creators have moved on to something a little more shall we say, egg-like! However, before we go there …

Mashed fruits like bananas and avocado, apple sauce and pumpkin/squash puree can often be a good substitute for an egg in recipe. It’s really very subjective though and you must decide on a recipe by recipe basis what is most suitable. Overall however, these options work best in cakes, muffins and brownies.

Whichever of these options you choose to use, you can replace each egg with 1/4 cup (65 grams) of purée.

Baked goods made with puréed fruits may not brown as deeply, but they will be very dense and moist.

Be aware that banana will obviously give you more of a banana flavor, so if you want something neutral – try some of the others instead

Agar-Agar & Gelatin

Before we dive in, I will tell you that while neither of these replacements should affect the flavor of your finished product, they may create a slightly stiffer texture. Unfortunately, nothing can replicate the egg exactly.

Gelatin

Gelatin eggs are probably the most commonly suggested egg substitute that you’ll see in recipes. If you’ve made one before, you’ll know why – it’s very close to the texture and viscosity of egg whites. Neither of these replacements should affect the flavor of your finished product, but they may create a slightly stiffer texture.

When it comes to gelatin, quality matters (sorry guys – Knox Gelatine is out as it’s highly processed and not from well cared for animals) – be sure to use gelatin made from grass-fed / pasture-raised animals (pigs – called porcine gelatin and/or cows – called beef gelatin – you can find quality gelatin brands here, from our partners at Perfect Supplements (See coupons page for current offers) or in our Amazon storefronts – go here and follow the link for either USA, Canada or the UK).

METHOD #1:

While there are several ways to make a gelatin egg, this is my favorite and it’s never failed me yet!

1 Tbsp Gelatin (Save upto 35% with Code: AIP10)
1/4 Cup Water
Add water to a small pot and sprinkle the gelatin over top.
Allow to sit for 2-3 minutes until the mixture hardens somewhat.
Place the post on a burner set to low heat for 1-2 minutes until the gelatin starts to melt. Be careful not to burn it! I usually stand by and start immediately whisking it.
Remove the pot from the heat and vigorously whisk until the mixture becomes frothy.

METHOD #2:

To replace one egg, dissolve 1 tablespoon (about 9 grams) of unflavored gelatin in 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of cold water. Then, mix in 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of boiling water until frothy.

AN IMPORTANT NOTE on gelatin: Just because you see a recipe calls for gelatin, it does not mean you will necessarily mean that you will go through the process of making a gelatin egg separately before adding it to the recipe. Follow the instructions as set out in the recipe you’re using for best results. IF the recipe indicates you are using gelatin and water to make a gelatin egg, follow those directions carefully as there are different ways to make a gelatin egg and the specific method recommended may yield better results in that particular recipe.

Agar Agar

If you’re avoiding animal products (though on the AIP you really shouldn’t be – read my article about that – Can the AIP Be Done As a Vegetarian?), you can opt for agar-agar powder or flakes. Agar agar is a vegan alternative to gelatin and is made from a type of seaweed or algae – you can find it here.

I’ve seen different suggestions for how to make an agar agar egg, so you’re going to be best to follow the instructions carefully in any recipe that you find if it calls for agar agar. Again, similar to gelatin, each recipe creator may have very specific reasons for using more or less water in the mix.

That said, here is the information I’ve found for you about making an agar agar egg!

METHOD #1:

Dissolve 1 teaspoon (approximately 4 grams) of agar-agar powder in 1 tablespoon of water to replace one egg.
To dissolve, first sprinkle the powder over the liquid, allow to rest for 5 minutes and then warm to 90 C over medium heat on the stove top.
Using a whisk, whip the agar mixture well to help dissolve, then refrigerate for 15 minutes and whip again. Add the agar to the baking mixture as the last ingredient and mix to just combine, do not overwork the mixture.

METHOD #2:

Use 1 tablespoon (9 grams) of agar-agar powder mixed with 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of water to replace one egg.
NOTE: If you have agar-agar flakes, be sure to grind them into a fine powder first as this will make a difference.

Vinegar & Baking Soda

I haven’t seen this one used all that much in AIP baking, but have heard of some using it successfully.

When mixed together, vinegar and baking soda start a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide and water, which makes baked goods light and airy, making this an especially good option for cakes and cupcakes.

Mixing 1 teaspoon (7 grams) of baking soda with 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of apple cider vinegar can replace one egg in most recipes.

Arrowroot Powder

I’ll admit to never having heard of this used as a specific egg replacement, but it very likely is that our AIP recipes employ these ingredients without us even realizing it! I can’t say this would be my go-to of choices by any means if I were simply trying to substitute an egg in any recipe.

A mixture of 2 tablespoons (about 18 grams) of arrowroot powder and 3 tablespoons (45 grams) of water can be used to replace one egg.

Carbonated Water

Carbonated water will obviously add moisture to a recipe, but it also acts as a leavening agent since the carbonation traps air bubbles, which help make the finished product light and fluffy.

You can replace each egg with one-fourth cup (60 grams) of carbonated water and the substitution is said to works well for cakes, cupcakes and quick breads. Again – I suggest sticking to AIP expert tested/created recipes rather than trying to reinvent the wheel.

Flax & Chia Eggs

While these are a wonderful Paleo option in baking going forward, if you’re on the AIP and still in the elimination stage, this option simply isn’t suitable for you.

BUT, if you’ve reintroduced these, here’s how to make them:

To replace one egg, whisk together 1 tablespoon (7 grams) of ground chia or flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons (45 grams) of water until fully absorbed and thickened.

Doing so may cause baked goods to become heavy and dense. Also, it may result in a nuttier flavor, so it works best in products like pancakes, waffles, muffins, breads and cookies.

Resource: Healthline – Effective Substitutes for Eggs

FAQ, News

Food Storage Basics

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When you’re on the AIP you’re likely doing a lot more cooking than usual. You’re probably batch cooking, and meal prepping for the freezer, but what’s the best way to store all of this delicious food? Does it matter what we use? Need the 4-1-1 on food storage basics? You’ve come to the right place!

Since we’re trying to live a toxin-free life on the AIP to give our bodies the fighting chance they need to heal, it’s a good idea to consider what you’re using for food storage. There are a lot of opinions out there about plastics, BPA-Free options, silicone and more (read more about why we should avoid plastics here). For me, I kick it old school as much as possible – zero waste, sustainable living, lovable, reusable glass!

Since I get asked a LOT about food storage, and especially about how to safely use glass jars in the freezer, that is the main focus of this article – I hope it helps!

Planning Tips:

The first pointer that I’m going to offer is a bit of a warning – batch cooking can be exhausting – especially in the beginning when you’re really not feeling well, so try to pick a day when you’re feeling up to it. Better yet have a friend or family member jump in to help you tag-team it. And it doesn’t have to be all about you – you can work together to create a bunch of delicious options so that they go home with food to stock their fridge and freezer too. Many hands make light work.

My second pointer – don’t go overboard if you don’t have the space to store it all! I’ve done this before when I was feeling super ambitious, I cooked way more than I needed for a week or two and found my fridge stuffed to the brim and I didn’t really want to store much of what I’d made in the freezer because it wasn’t all that freezer friendly. So, evaluate the space you have and choose recipes to prep according to where and how you plan to store it.

The third pointer is to have your containers ready! There’s nothing worse than batch cooking and then scrambling to find suitable food storage to put it all in. Plan ahead for this. If you’ve never batch cooked before you might need to consider investing in some quality meal containers. Glass if obviously the gold standard, safest method for storing food, and there are some awesome options on the market these days that make prepping a breeze (check out some of my faves in my shopping resources – click here). If you can’t afford to buy new containers, save up any glass jars you have from store-bought items or check a local thrift store, I know our family donates a lot of glass mason jars when we simply get overwhelmed by the amount we have on hand. If you’re lucky enough to score some of those, your investment will be minimal in that you’ll just need to buy some new lids.

Practical Tips – Glass Jars #1:

Super … You’re all set!

Now, you may have heard horror stories of using glass jars in the freezer, am I right? I had heard stories too, but was always fortunate enough not to have any issues … leave enough space at the top of the jar for expansion and you’re good to go! Well …. not always! Even if you manage to freeze them without breaking, they can still break during thawing.

Eventually, my luck ran out. When I started freezing bone broth I ran into troubles and there were tears shed over bone broth lost. I attribute some of my issues to using inappropriate jars and the fact that my upright freezer has coils in the shelves … so I’ve gotten a little smarter about all this.

For me, I’m usually just freezing liquids in jars – sauces, soup, broth, stew and maybe shepherd’s pie. Freezing liquids can be tricky, so here are a few practical tips:

The Jar – the wider the jar the better. Try to avoid tall skinny jars, and if possible use wide-mouth jars without “shoulders” (that just means that the jar is straight from bottom to top and it does not get smaller as it approaches the opening).
Filling The Jar – only fill it 3/4 of the way full or less to ensure you allow plenty of room for expansion as the contents freeze and expand.
Position – always freeze jars standing up.
Freezer Considerations – if you have an upright freezer with freezer coils in the shelves, consider placing your jars in a shallow plastic container until they have frozen successfully. I started doing this just in case they broke so there would be something to catch the liquid, but in actual fact I think the barrier between the glass and the coils made a difference.
Temperature – ALWAYS ensure your liquid is completely cooled before attempting to freeze. Some say allowing them to come to room temperature is sufficient, but I usually err on the side of caution and refrigerate them first until completely cold.
Thawing – NEVER try to thaw quickly! SLOW and STEADY wins this race! Ideally you should remove your frozen jar to the refrigerator for a few hours – NEVER place jars straight from the freezer into hot water – breakage is almost guaranteed! Plan ahead and thaw slowly in the fridge and then the counter top – that’s your best bet.

Practical Tips – Glass Jars #2:

My favorite wide mouth jars with frozen pesto cubes!

Another way to use glass jars for freezer storage is to first pre-freeze your liquids in ice cube trays or silicone trays that hold larger amounts. Once your liquids are frozen you pop them out of the trays and into glass jars and you should have no problem putting your jars straight in the freezer.

This method is great for freezing things like pesto, sauces and bone broth since it allows you to easily portion out what you need instead of having to thaw a whole jar of food. Think about the number of times you need a cup of broth or a few tablespoons of sauce! Dispensing a few cubes from a jar also allows you to thaw them more quickly in a safe container or by popping them right into the dish you’re cooking.

Glass Storage Containers:

There are plenty of larger, shallow options for storing all kinds of food available these days. There are even containers that have sections so you can portion out a complete meal but keep items separate. Containers like this are great for meal prepping and are typically thicker and more sturdy than a glass jar. While you should still proceed with caution when freezing and thawing these containers, you’ll likely have fewer concerns since you’ll probably not be storing liquids but rather solid food and there will be lots of air gaps for expansion. Follow the directions that come with your containers and you should be just fine!

What About Freezer Burn?

Freezer burn is caused by the moisture loss in the freezer. It can lead to ice crystals, shriveled product, tough, leathery or discolored meats.

You can minimize freezer burn by making sure your food is cold before you set out, so let it cook and then proceed. You may even want to store it in the fridge first and then move on to freezing.

The key is oxidization or exposure to air – you want to minimize that by properly packaging your food. If you plan to buy a lot of meat in bulk, you have a garden and plan on preserving your harvest or you like to buy in bulk when things are on sale, you might want to invest in a vacuum sealing system (you can find some great options in my Amazon Storefronts under small appliances – the brand that I recommend uses BPA free plastics click here to find the link for your area).

If you just need a few pointers to do your best without a system, read on…

For meat, poultry and seafood you can wrap it in freezer paper (or plastic wrap – but I don’t like plastic for reasons mentioned above) and then in foil and then pop it in a freezer bag and remove as much air as possible.
When packaging fruit and vegetables use small containers to minimize empty space when freezing leftovers. You can also use the same wrapping technique as for meat in some cases.
HOT TIP: Use a straw to suck the air out of your freezer bag once it’s almost completely zipped up!
Keep your freezer temperature as consistent as possible – avoid opening and closing it unnecessarily.
Use your food faster. It’s best to use your frozen foods within 2-4 months, so be sure to add dates to your frozen packages and rotate your inventory.

Too late? Your food’s already got freezer burn? Bummer! Don’t worry though, your food is still safe to eat – the texture may not be the same and it just may not taste as good as it once did, so plan to use it in more forgiving dishes like soups, stews, sauces or smoothies instead.

How Long Is My Food Safe & How Should I Store It?

Since you know I’m not one for re-writing well presented material, I’m simply going to direct you to a couple of great articles:

Autoimmune Wellness – AIP Food Storage Basics – These post will help you figure out how long food should stay fresh and safe and where you should store it.

Healthline – Food Storage – This post covers freezer burn, safe meat storage guidelines (fridge and freezer), how to know if your chicken has gone bad, fruit and veggie storage, canned food storage guidelines and more! (Once you’re there – just keep scrolling)

And because, on the AIP especially we don’t want to waste any precious ingredients (I know a lot of us are on a budget) you can read my post about managing the AIP on a Budget.

FAQ, News

AIP Amazon Shopping

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What Do I Need & Where Can I Find It?

Getting started on the AIP can be overwhelming – what do you need, where do you find it, how do you know what’s compliant and what’s not?

If you haven’t already grabbed your Food Lists and spent some time on my Food Sourcing Page, I’d recommend checking it out. There you’ll find lots of recommended AIP Friendly shops and whole bunch of quick shop categories that take you to my AIP Storefronts on Amazon (USA – for other countries, keep reading).

Beyond that, I’ve put a pretty extensive list of items together for you – kitchen tools, gadgets and appliances that I either have or are they’re on my wish list, snacks, pantry items and hard to find ingredients, cookbooks, reference books and soooo much more!

While I try to keep this list up-to-date, brands come and go and companies change their ingredients from time to time so the onus is always on the consumer to check labels and ensure that products are suitable for you, your medical condition and your stage of the AIP. If you find a broken link or see a product has changed and is no longer compliant, I would appreciate it if you could drop me a message on my contact page (I thank you in advance for helping me keep on top of these things).

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