GF test Complete

Sunday marked the completion of my GF test. I did the full 3 days on, 6 days off, and then what turned out to be 4 days back on, as I remained GF the entire day of my race. I raced Sunday to see if I noticed any changes, or improved performance.

The last two day of GF were interesting. I definitely got down how to eat, and it wasn't really an issue to stay GF. My headaches did not reappear. My stomach was however not happy. I was pretty nervous going into the race that I would have to stop for the potty. I did not have to stop but before and after I spent more time in the bathroom as usual, and my tummy was bloated and angry. My performance was a few minutes better than last year, but I am also fitter than last year.

One thought came to me these last few days. If athletes feel the way I was feeling GF when they are on a normal diet, then I completely understand exploring GF options. I got a sense of what it feels like to be concerned about your stomach, worried about having to go during a race, and having bloating.

My personal conclusion to this study is that I do better with a little gluten. The test enabled me to expand my repertoire, to learn lots about non gluten carbs and my reaction to them. The platters of roasted fennel, sweet potato, onion, and parsnips will be around in my house for years to come. However, my tummy was pretty happy before I started, and I can't wait for it to stay that way.

Monday and Tuesday I incorporated just a little gluten back into my diet and wha-lah GI problems gone. So, I don't think I need a lot of gluten, but a little bit definitely keeps me on track. I don't need the full amounts that I have eaten in the past, and so, this study has been a total success.

My advise: try it! It's not that hard, use the off(ish) season to learn about yourself. Not a whole lot to loose. I promise you will learn "something" in the process!

Thanks to everyone for their comments, they really helped.

Humm...which test do I try next?