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FUK Flour Guest Speaker at Living Green EXPO Presentations & Workshops Four sessions will be offered over two days.  Please note that all presentations will take place in Room 202(immediately off the main Atrium).  See below for further details. Saturday April 27, 10:00 am to 12:30 pm Greening Faith Groups' Real Estate Portfolio Saturday...

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FUK Flour Guest Chef For Go Gluten Free Featuring... Darren Potvin, owner of FUK Flour & Gluten Free Ottawa, is very excited to be part of Kathy Smart's "Go Gluten Free featuring decadent desserts" on Sunday, Febuary 24th from 3 - 5 pm.  We are one of her Gluten Free Guest Chefs for this event, and we will be featuring both our Gluten Free Vegan Maple Cashew Fudge...

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FUK Flour & Gluten Free Ottawa Accomplishments & Awards! Here are some of FUK Flour's Awards & Gluten Free Ottawa's accomplishments in our first half quarter.   FUK Flour 's won the Award for My Favourite Find This Year for 2012.  FUK Flour also Ranked Top in Organic Restaurant  and or Healthy  Restaurant, while coming in third place for Health Food Store.        FUK...

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Manotick Shiverfest and FUK Flour News 2013 Other Must See Places While You Are In Manotick: Lindsay & McCaffrey, Lilou Organics, Green Spirit, Chilly Chiles  

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FUK Flour In The Fashion News! I was delighted when Marcia from MarciaBcreative came to my Manotick Gluten Free Bakery, FUK Flour and Ottawa Gluten Free Knowledge Centre in Manotick Ontario.    A very beautiful and Stylish young lady this Marcia is, and I was delighted when she asked me to educate her on gluten and gluten free.   This ...

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For The Hershey Lover In You. Kiss Kiss

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Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 27-09-2012

Category : Food, Travel & Play

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Have you ever wondered what Hershey’s Chocolate is Gluten Free.  Here is the list of all things gluten free made by Hershey’s.

ALMOND JOY and MOUNDS Bars - ALL

HERSHEY’S – BAKING Chips

HERSHEY’S Butterscotch Chips
HERSHEY’S Cinnamon Chips
HERSHEY’S KISSES MINI KISSES Milk Chocolate
HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Chips
HERSHEY’S MINI CHIPS Semi-Sweet Chocolate
HERSHEY’S Premier White Chips
HERSHEY’S Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips
HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Chips
HERSHEY’S SUGAR FREE Chocolate Chips
REESE’S Peanut Butter Chips

HERSHEY’S – Baking Bars

HERSHEY’S Semi Sweet Baking Bar

HERSHEY’S – Cocoa

HERSHEY’S Cocoa
HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Cocoa

DAGOBA Baking and Beverages

DAGOBA All Baking Bars
DAGOBA All Bars
DAGOBA Cacao Powder
DAGOBA Authentic Drinking Chocolate
DAGOBA Chai Drinking Chocolate
DAGOBA Unsweetened Drinking Chocolate
DAGOBA Xocolatl Drinking Chocolate

HEATH Bars - ALL

HERSHEY’S KISSES and NUGGETS

HERSHEY’S KISSES Milk Chocolate
HERSHEY’S KISSES Filled Chocolates - ALL
HERSHEY’S NUGGETS Candies - ALL

HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Bar

HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Bar (1.55oz only)
HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate with Almonds Bar (1.45oz only)

HERSHEY’S Syrup and REESE’S Toppings

HERSHEY’S Caramel Syrup
HERSHEY’S Chocolate Syrup
HERSHEY’S Chocolate Syrup with Calcium
HERSHEY’S Chocolate Syrup with Calcium
HERSHEY’S Lite Chocolate Syrup
HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Syrup
HERSHEY’S Strawberry Syrup
REESE’S Chocolate Peanut Butter Topping

REESE’S Peanut Butter Cups – ALL Except Seasonal Shaped Items

SCHARFFEN BERGER

SCHARFFEN BERGER 70% Bittersweet Chocolate Bar
SCHARFFEN BERGER 82% Extra Dark Chocolate Bar
SCHARFFEN BERGER 41% Milk Chocolate Bar
SCHARFFEN BERGER 62% Semisweet Dark Chocolate Bar
SCHARFFEN BERGER 99% Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Baking Bar
SCHARFFEN BERGER Cocoa Powder
SCHARFFEN BERGER 70% Bittersweet Baking Chunks

SKOR

SKOR Toffee Bar

YORK Peppermint Pattie - ALL

Twitt

Chewing Gums That Are Gluten Free

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Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 02-09-2012

Category : Food, Travel & Play

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Here is some helpful information for you chewing lovers out there.  As always I go directly to the manufacturer to find out for myself if their chewing gum is gluten free. Here is a list of chewing gum manufacturers that are gluten free, and or containing gluten. See a list of gluten free gum below.

Organic Gum.

GLEE GUM IS made with all natural ingredients including: pure cane sugar, rice syrup, natural flavorings and colorings. Our gum base has super chewy natural chicle harvested from Sapodilla trees in the rain forests of Central America.

GLEE GUM IS: Vegetarian, Additive Free, Lactose Free, Dairy Free, Wheat Free, Gluten Free, Casein Free, Egg Free, Yeast Free, Nut Free, and Peanut Free.*

GLEE GUM HAS: all natural ingredients, rice syrup instead of corn syrup, natural chicle, delicious, long-lasting, and popular flavors: tangerine, peppermint, cinnamon, spearmint, bubblegum and triple berry.

GLEE GUM DOES NOT HAVE: artificial preservatives, artificial flavors, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners (e.g. aspartame, saccharin or cyclamate).

*All Glee Gum is soy free. Please note, however, that other
products containing soy lecithin are processed
in the same facility.

 

Like the rest of the Glee Gum line, Sugar-Free Glee is made with sustainably harvested rainforest chicle. It contains no artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners or preservatives. It’s free of all major allergens, and it’s our first product that’s also corn-free!

Sugar-Free Glee Gum is: Vegetarian, GMO Free, Aspartame Free, Additive Free, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Egg Free, Yeast Free, Nut Free, Soy Free, Peanut Free, and Corn Free.

 

Gluten Free FUK Flour will be selling the Glee Gum line very soon.

 

Non Organic Gluten Free Gum.

Wrigley manufactures the following brands which are all gluten free. Click Here for Contact information.

  • Orbit brand (all flavors)
  • 5 gum (all flavors)
  • Juicy Fruit
  • Big Red
  • Extra (all flavors)
  • Eclipse gum (all flavors)
  • Freedent
  • Spearmint

Kraft Canada states it will indicate if the product has gluten and the way they do it, is as so. Kraft always labels ingredients as well as any potential for cross-contamination.  As of January 2012, Kraft  stated they can not guarantee as gluten free any product containing natural flavoring, artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, or spices due to the fact that these ingredients are coming from different suppliers and may be coming from a source of gluten). Click Here to view source.

  • Bubbilicious
  • Chicklets
  • Dentyne
  • Stride
  • Trident (all flavors)

 

Hershey’s manufactures Bubble Yum chewing gum in six flavors. While they do not maintain a list of gluten free products, they do not use gluten in any of their artificial flavors and will call out any gluten ingredients or gluten-derived ingredients right on the label.

 

Big League Chew are gluten free. Before to January 2011, Big League Chew was manufactured by Wrigley. Now it’s manufactured by Ford Gum company. They also manufacture many of the bulk gumballs that appear in vending machines nationwide and are gluten free as well.

 SAFE
Cadbury 
  • Dentyne
  • Trident
  • Stride
  • Clorets
  • Halls
  • Chicklets
  • Bubblicious

 SAFE
Wrigley

  • Excel
  • Eclipse (USA brand equivalent to Excel)
  • Big Red
  • Juicy Fruit
  • Wrigley’s Gum
  • 5
  • Orbit
  • Extra
  • Freedent
  • Hubba Bubba & Big League Chew for the kids (big and small)
  • Altoids, Lifesavers, Starburst and Skittles (just in case you wanted to know)

 

Benefits of chewing Gum:

Freshens Your Breath

Chewing gum refreshes the mouth and throat and give you the cent of what ever flour you are chewing.

 

Burns Calories

Almost anything you do can burn calories. Chewing gum will have the same effect, and cause you to burn calories due to the consistent chewing motion.

Chewing Helps Fight Tooth Decay

Chewing gum promotes the production of saliva, which then helps neutralize acids from foods that can cause tooth decay. Chewing sugar free gum has been shown to promote the building of saliva by up to 10 times the normal non stimulated rate.  With the production of more saliva, it neutralises plaque acid in the mouth and helps reduce the risk of dental decay by up to forty percent.

Convenient Way of Introducing Vitamins and Minerals

Fortified gums provide a appropriate way of taking vitamins and minerals.

Tooth Whitening

A couple chewing gums have demonstrated their ability to whiten teeth and to prevent stains from forming. If any of you have ever seen my teeth then you now know why. :)

Improves Concentration

In Recent studies repetitive act of chewing gum increases the heart rate and aids concentration.

Relaxes You

Scientific studies from the 1930′s showed how chewing reduces muscular tension and helps people feel more relaxed. Chewing gum, is so well-recognized for helping you stay alert at the same time eases tension.

Relief for Sufferers of Dry Mouth

Sugar free gum provides the relief of dry mouth (Xerostomia) for most people. This condition can be caused by an array of prescription drugs amongst other things. Chewing gum stimulates saliva production and can alleviate the uncomfortable effects of dry mouth.

Provides A Low Calorie Snack

Chewing gum satisfies the desire of snacking, and each stick averages less than 10 calories.  Pellet gums are less than 5 calories depending on what type of gum you are chewing.

Helps in deterring Smoking

Chewing gum assist those who are trying to give up smoking.

 

Who thought Gum could be so good for  you.  Remember the best gums are all natural.

 

Twitt

A Taste of Manotick

Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 13-07-2012

Category : Events, Gluten Free Ottawa Announcement!, News, Travel & Play

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It’s that time of year when Manotick’s local businesses all come together to experience “A Taste Of Manotick” and what this beautiful Village has to offer.  Manotick’s Main Street will be open to pedestrians only, from 4pm – 9pm August 18th, 2012.  Manotick will have the first dedicated gluten free bakery and gluten free pantry called FUK Flour “For all your gluten free needs”.   Every businesses will line the streets showcasing what the Village of Manotick has to offer, from an array of fabulous specialty/gift stores, stylish clothing shops and many other services.  On this day there will be samples, draws, food tasting, music and demonstrations…   All the local restaurants and shoppes will be open, and business as usual, not to forget the best service in town. Grab your family and friends, come out and enjoy some music, entertainment and great food. There aren’t too many things in the city that you can do for free these days.

 

The Hodge Podge Shoppe 613-692-2922 (FUK Flour’s New Home 613-878-2143) is located at 1140 Tighe Street Unit B Manotick, Ontario K4M1A3

Manotick has a warm welcoming feeling about it, with its charm and breath-taking views of the Rideau River, and where old-fashioned, small-town service is alive and well!  The same feeling you’ll get when you come into The Hodge Podge Shoppe and visit soon to be residing FUK Flour.  

The Hodge Podge Shoppe carries the best fresh roasted coffee beans around with a variety of teas.  They’ve been carrying a few products that are gluten free  with a vast array of imported British foods.   In the middle of the store you’ll find rich tasting hard ice cream, with a very good selection to choose from.  Towards the back of the shoppe you will find countless collectible antiques and local art work.  You can see why FUK Flour would be a good fit to this Hodge Podge haven.   Opening date for FUK Flour is coming soon and we will keep you  posted.

Take a cool, leisurely walk by the river or tour the town and get a feeling of being sent back into the past. There is also Watson’s Mill, one of the few remaining operating gristmills in Canada.  The “Mill” also has some of its own mortal history, and when I held a haunted walk there a few years ago,  that night brought the Mill’s stories to life… of it’s  resident ghost.  There is  lots to see an do in Manotick and is only 15 kilometres south of Ottawa where you’ll find the best of rural and urban.

 We hope to see you all there, and get a chance not only to taste some of FUK Flour’s delicious gluten-free baked goods, but to have “A Taste Of Manotick”.

 

 

 

Above pictures contain: Gluten free date squares and gluten free brownies.

Twitt

Is Canada Heading Into A Gluten Free Society? And Happy Canada Day Eh!

Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 28-06-2012

Category : Food, News, Travel & Play

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It’s four days before Canada Day 2012 here in Ottawa, and after being at a few networking clubs that I am part of I have come to the conclusions that Canada is on a leap forward with Gluten-Free products.  Every day I am being asked question about what are the symptoms of Celiac or Gluten Intolerance, how do you know if you are allergic to gluten.  But this post isn’t about how we find out or what prevents this disease or allergy, it’s about how Canada is heading into a gluten-free society.

 

 

There are as many as 1 in every 100  - 200  Canadian poeple that have Celiac disease and as many as 300,000 Canadians could have this but remain undiagnosed.  Researchers are saying that gluten intolerance or people who suffer from a gluten sensitivity is becoming a hidden epidemic, and includes anywhere between 5% and 10% of the population.  Doctors and researchers haven’t yet come up with a current score or amount to suggest how many exact people have a gluten sensitivity but are not aware of it, since only one in four thousand-ish who suffer from celiac disease have actually been diagnosed, you can just imagine the grand scale of things, and how worse it really is when you include the undiagnosed cases of non-celiac, gluten intolerance and gluten sensitivity.  The problem here is Canadians are still being misdiagnosed and the main source of the problem could be Gluten.  Here are a few of my older post that can help you decide whether or not you should be check  for Celiac or Gluten Sensitivity; Gluten… What You Don’t Know Might Kill You! or  Gluten Intolerance Symptoms.

 

Here are a few key points:

  • Celiac Disease is a Common Genetic Condition With Serious Symptoms Triggered by the Consumption of Gluten
  • The Only Treatment for Celiac Disease or Gluten Intolerant is a Gluten-Free Diet
  • Other Consumers May Also Follow a Gluten-Free Diet For Medical Reasons
  • The Majority of Celiac Individuals Can Safely Consume Uncontaminated Oats
  • Uncontaminated Oats are Available in Canada
  • Canada’s Food and Drug Regulations Limit Options for Celiac Consumers
  • Health Canada Has Proposed Regulatory Amendments to Enhance the Labelling of Food Allergen and Gluten Sources in Canada
  • Gluten-Free Labelling is Evolving Internationally

 

I know I have posted this before, when it comes to potato chips, but since Canada Day is right around the corner and most people  have chips at there parties here is a safe list of Lays Gluten free Chips.

 

 The newest news on gluten free products. 

LAY’S Cheddar & Sour Cream Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S Classic Potato Chips
LAY’S Dill Pickle Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
Lay’s Fries & Gravy Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S Lightly Salted Potato Chips
LAY’S Ketchup Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S Old Fashioned Bar•B•Q Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
Lay’s Roast Chicken Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S Salt & Vinegar Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S Sea Salt & Pepper Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S Smokey Bacon Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S Sour Cream & Onion Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S STAX Bar•B•Q Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S STAX Cheddar Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S STAX Original Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S STAX Salt & Vinegar Simulated Flavour Potato Chips
LAY’S STAX Sour Cream & Onion Flavour Potato Chips
Wavy LAY’S Smoky Bar•B•Q Flavour Potato Chips
Wavy LAY’S Original Potato Chips

Click Here for source.

 

DONT FORGET IF YOU LOVE ROASTING HOT DOGS ON AN OPEN FIRE WHILE YOU MIGHT BE CAMPING ON THIS LONG WEEKEND, WALMART CARRIES GLUTEN FREE HOT DOGS.  THE MANOTICK GIANT TIGER CARRIES GLUTEN FREE GIANT ROASTER MARSHMALLOWS, ANOTHER PERFECT CAMP FIRE ROASTING TREAT.
 

 

Here are a few other lists that might interest you while being out and about on Canada Day long weekend.  All the essentials of a Gluten Free Long weekend Party.

 

 

 Myself Darren Potvn the owner/creator of Gluten Free Ottawa and FUK Flour wish you a safe and fun Canada Day.

 

Twitt

My Walk On Main Street in Manotick Ontario: Adding Gluten Free to Manotick Village.

Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 31-05-2012

Category : FUK Flour, Gluten Free Ottawa Announcement!, Travel & Play

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I’m a Montreal transplant who settled in Manotick Ontario nine years ago, but my family’s roots are from Eastern Ontario.   I started my gluten free business in Januray of 2012 out of frustration, and not being able to find healthy tasting gluten free foods.  My understanding of the way a community works is by sticking together, so I went out onto Main Street “Manotick” and started introducing myself to fellow vendors and letting them know about my local home-based online Gluten Free business.  What a welcoming bunch of people I met today, and some of them I had already met by shopping or browsing in their stores before.  As I hoped, most of the vendors had the same feeling as myself, but I guess they aren’t as forward or extroverted as I am to go knocking on doors and introducing themselves :) …  I felt comfortable in doing so as I am proud to live in a beautiful community filled with history and charm.   I wasn’t able to meet all the vendors in Manotick, but my walk is not finished and can be picked right up were I left off another day.

This was a great day venturing into my community and finding more quaint & unique vendors.  If I  didn’t take a walk on Main St. Manotick today I would of never have known the types of stores and friendly faces that habited here.  I guess the lesson learnt today was get out in your community and see what it has to offer.

Below are some of the local vendors that had or will have gluten free products in their establishment in Manotick.  To see the Manotick/Osgoode Directory Click Here.

 

 

 

 

The Manotick Pepper Mill is as charming as Manotick, and filled with beautiful linens, kitchen gadgets, and fun fresh functional kitchen essentials.  I spoke with Stephanie O’Manique  one of the owners – what a wonderful person she is, and very well versed when it comes to nutrition.  If you’re in Manotick check this place out.  I did and found some gluten free products. Located at 5562-A Main St. Manotick 613-491-0589.

 

The Hodge Podge Shoppe really does stand up to it’s name.  You will spend quite some time in there, either for the variety of foods or just the array of antiques and collectibles.   What a great and helpful staff and the owner Beth Collins has great presence.  A world of charm is what this place is, a hidden gem, and some great pottery I must say.  If it’s a hot summer day like it was yesterday, grab the kids and go for some yummy hard ice cream, they also have some gluten free mixes that you can buy on their shelves, just ask them where they are.   Located at 1140 Tighe Steet Unit B, Manotick 613-692-2922.

 

On one side of the shop you have Lilou Organics owned by Lisa Schmidt which has a great selection
of organic items, including gluten free makeup and skin supplies. They also do wellness
treatments in the back of the store.  On the other side  of the shop you have Green Spirit.
Green spirit shares the store but you wouldn’t know because they blend so well.  The lovely
Kay Aveling, owner of the “green spirit” carries eco living products, gluten free goodies and wellness items.  They are both located at 5558 Main St.
Manotick.  Lilou Organic  number is 613-692-2800 and “green spirit’s” information can be seen
on their business card to the right.

 

 

 

 

I know this is about gluten free but I had to add my favourite video store called Just New Reeleases.  The owner’s name is Dan and he really helps you find the type of movie you are looking for.  He is what every vendor should be like, kind, understanding and patient, but he also has the very best knowledge on movies.  He carries movies that most video stores don’t carry, and is the biggest movie buff I know.  He has carried some of FUK Flour’s goodies during certain holidays as most people who are going to rent a movie would also like a snack to.  Not every video store carries gluten free goodies for their clients but Dan does at times and is aware of his clients needs, plus he is the only video store still opened in the more southern end of Ottawa.  Please visit his simple but vast array of videos and video games at his location  5556 Main St Box 267 Manotick, Ontario K4M 1A3, 613-692-3800

 

My walked continued this Monday afternoon and brought us to the Lasting Impressions Shop located at 5552  Main St. Manotick.  My Mom and I were excited to see the amount of beautiful gifts ideas and sparkling array of jewellry in this shop.  It’s true what their business card states “the shop for all of your gift giving needs” and to my surprise had gluten free products, such as gourmet chips and crackers.  I was able to spot a few other products by reading the ingredients that were also gluten free but not indicated on the product,  all you would have to do is call the company and ask if their establishment is wheat free (GF).  I would recommend going to this shop as you are sure to find something you would like, we did.

 

Last week after taking another walk on Main St. while dropping off some of my sample boxes containing GF Rice Coco Flax Krisps, GF Jeannies Date Squares and our GF Triple Chocolate Skor Brownies to a few of the vendors listed on this post,  they immediately became  addicted.  One of the vendors from Lilou Organics Ecobeauty Boutique wrote me this testimonial – “I LOVED the yummy sweats that I tried from FukFlour – especially the brownies. Everything I tried tasted super delicious and I would never guess that it was gluten-free. Although I don’t need to follow a gluten-free diet, I tend to look for these types of foods because they use much cleaner/better ingredients in general and i’m really careful about eating unprocessed foods. I feel good about giving my kids these types of treats that you get at FukFlour. You have to try them – you’ll be a convert!!”.  This not only puts a smile on my face but at least I made her happy.

 

Lisa said to me to go see the Gingerbread Guy at 1134 Tighe St in Manotick as she said he had just put out a sign stating gluten free
gingerbread cookies.  So I went on my gluten free way to visit the Gingerbread Man.  This was my first time going into his shop/bakery as I don’t normally hang around gluten. :)  My eyes could not believe what they were seeing nor smelling.  The smell of sweet spiciness in the air and the amazing detail onall sort of gingerbread houses and figurines.  Richard Palframan is the owner and what a gentleman he is.  We spoke for a while and he is more a conventional bakery and certified chef, who has been making gingerbread creations for 20 years. If you are ever in Manotick pay him a visit as his shop is a must see.  You can place orders by phone 613-692-3209 or visit his website at www.gingerbreadman.ca.

And then there is me, FUK Flour.  I am currently looking for a place in Manotick to plant my roots and spread the knowledge of Gluten Free, and not to mention my great tasting healthy GF foods. I am also looking for investors to invest in a growing gluten free business.  If you know of a location in Manotick or surrounding area that is coming up for lease or rent please drop me a line.  I will be out and about on Dickinson Days 2012: June 1st and 2nd in  Manotick.  A celebration of  Moss Kent Dickinson’s birthday, founder of the Village of Manotick. The weekend will be overflowing with activities for all ages to enjoy.

 

 

For FUK Flour Directory Click Here.

This was brought to you by Gluten Free Ottawa.

 

 

Twitt

DATES and I am not talking about relationships.

Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 09-05-2012

Category : Food, Travel & Play

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The health benefits of dates are amazing, as this power-packed fruit is rich in natural fibres, vitamins and minerals. These middle eastern symbols are also known as the crown of sweets. The date contains oil, calcium, sulphur, potassium, manganese, iron, magnesium, and copper which are great for your health. I have read that eating a date every day is essential for a proper healthy diet. They also help in intestinal disorders, heart problems, diarrhea, weight gain and abdominal cancer. Kathy Smart would most probably agree with me when I say that dates perfect nourishment for muscle development. Eating dates is beneficial for anyone recovering after any muscle surgery or surgery in general. They are also a great snack to grab with you that will power your body for a while. There are so many ways to eat dates: fresh, diced in cereals, or just mixing in with anything you see fit. I’ve been told that doctors of modern medicine believe that dates are useful in preventing abdominal cancer, and I read that it also helps with night blindness and eyesight in general.

 

Consuming dates daily will grab you an amount of 20 to 35 grams of dietary fibre. Dates are also free of cholesterol and contain very low fat. They truly stand by their ancient name the ”Crown of Sweets” because they are rich in vitamins & minerals. They are perfectly packed with protein, and rich in vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5,vitamin A1 and C. They promote a better digestive system as they contain soluble and insoluble fibers and different kinds of amino acids. They also contain natural sugars like glucose, sucrose and fructose.

 

Did you know that one cup of pitted, chopped dates contains 3.6 grams of protein, 415 calories and 11.8 grams of dietary fibre.

 

Mineral:

Potassium – 964 mg, 
Phosphorus – 91 mg, Magnesium – 63 mg, Calcium – 57 mg, Sodium – 3 mg 
Iron – 1.5 mg, Selenium 4.4 mcg, Manganese – 0.385 mg, Copper – 0.303 mg, and Zinc – 0.43 mg. 

Vitamins:

Vitamin A – 15 IU, 
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) – 0.076 mg, Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) – 0.097 mg, 
Niacin – 1.873 mg, Folate – 28 mcg, Pantothenic Acid- 0.866 mg, Vitamin B6 – 0.243 mg, 
Vitamin C – 0.6 mg, Vitamin E – 0.07 mg and Vitamin K – 4 mcg.  

Dates are high in iron and are very good for those who are anemic. In my case, I have to watch my intake of dates due to being a carrier of Hemochromatosis… I can not get rid of my iron. I also found out that dates have fluorine, which slows down the process of tooth decay and strengthens tooth enamel.

 

After everything you read so far you’d think we are coming to and end, but no, the benefits of dates are just starting. They will make you go regular even more so than mung beans, so they will end your constipation. It has also been said that they increase your sexual stamina, hmmm. Like some people I know who can’t put weight on, and I envy them to a point, dates help in weight gain and help maintain it. They are also a natural energy booster if you haven’t already figured that one out. At last, and yes I save the best for last, ;) … Dates are the best natural way of getting rid of a hangover, or to be more grammatically correct, alcohol intoxication/drunkenness. The quick hangover remedy relief from alcohol intoxication is a few fresh dates soaked overnight in 12 oz of water. Drink and eat them up and bye bye hangover.

 

There are many selections of dates which can be found in most grocery stores, and you can spot a good date by the appearance of the fleshiness and even colour. Make sure there is no artificial sugar coating, and stick to naturally grown, pesticide free. The two dates I use are Medjool Dates and Parnoosh which are both 100% gluten free. Oh, and remember to always wash all your fruits and veggies.

This was brought to you by FUK Flour and Gluten Free Ottawa. :)

Twitt

Hail to the Queen of Nutrition, Health, Fitness and Gluten Free… Kathy Smart.

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Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 02-05-2012

Category : Events, Food, Gluten Free Ottawa Announcement!, Travel & Play

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Kathy Smart is one of my personal friends and if anyone deserves to be recognized for her efforts and hard work it’s her. She plays a big role in our community by inspiring people to eat healthy, get into shape and live a healthier lifestyle. She also has a vast knowledge of gluten free cooking and nutrition.

Some of her accomplishments:

TV Chef, Host, Nutritionist, Personal Trainer and Cookbook Author North America’s First Gluten Free TV Show Chef

On May 5th at 10 am and 11 am you can join her for a free Gluten Free Shopping tour at Farm Boy in Stittsville, ON. Please email stittsvilleHR@farmboy.cato register. Registration is require while spaces last. 

&

To register for Kathy Smart Gluten Free Cooking Class on May 20th from 1-4 pm please email kathy@livethesmartway.com

To join any of her online contacts, learn about her or even follow Kathy on FB/Twitter  Click Here.

 

Kathy is also  going on a  Journey of the Yogini to Raise Money to go to Guatemala to help build homes for the needy with Developing World Connections.   She never stops and I totally understand where this energy comes from, it comes from the heart.  To join her her cause on facebook Click Here.  To odonste to her cause Click Here.

Save the Date!
Yoga Charity Class next Friday May 11th
8pm- 9pm
Orleans Moksha Yoga Class
Gluten free date squares to follow by Darren C. Potvin of FUK Flour! 
2442 St. Joseph Blvd. (& Dussere) 2nd Floor, Suite 101
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
K1C 1G1

Email: info@mokshayogaorleans.com

Phone:(613) 424-8221


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Chia Seeds “The Power-Food Of The Golden Age.”

Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 02-05-2012

Category : Food, Travel & Play

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Chia seed is an ancient SUPER-FOOD that is currently experiencing a glorious comeback. It’s a member of the sage family (Salvia Hispanica). This tiny black and whitish seed was once the main food source of the Incan, Mayan and Aztec cultures and Chia is derived from the Mayan word strength. The seeds were used by these ancient cultures as well as Native Indians due to it’s mega-energy food. Chia has been called the ‘Indian Running Food’ and gives an incredibly sustaining surge of energy.

 

 

If you’re a reader of my blog then you will know I love hot yoga. Usually before I go to my hot yoga class I take a kefir shake with chia seeds. I first soak the seeds in water to allow them to absorb 9-12 times their weight in water, usually takes about 10 min to have a jelly like liquid. I then mix the chia seeds in with my shake. It’s such a great hydrator and when you do hot yoga you need to keep your hydration up. Chia seeds are a complete source of protein, providing all the essential amino acids and are easily digested. This creates a power packed nutrient filled protein shake which is 100% gluten free and lactose free. Adding chia seeds into my shake makes my endurance and ability to do hot yoga for 90 min with greater ease than not taking them. It enhances my stamina and curves my hunger as you shouldn’t eat heavy while doing any form of yoga or exercise for that matter. These tiny seeds are pretty impressive and are also an amazing source of fibre.

 

           

You can buy chia seeds in most health food stores and I have also seen them in local grocery stores too. You can also substitute chia seeds in any recipe that calls for flax seeds. In some areas of the world they say that one tablespoon of chia seeds can sustain a person for 24 hours. Chia seeds also taste and looks great, and are ready to eat really quickly. You can just sprinkle some in your mouth and drink some water with them and keep you going. Chia seeds have an incredible nutritional profile and have so many health benefits. This is why I am calling this seed the Super-food of the golden age.

 

Now, why would you want to eat Chia Seeds…

Did you know that Chia Seeds have two times the protein of any other seed or grain? They also carry five times the calcium of milk, and promote boron which is a trace mineral that helps transfer calcium into your bones. Chia seeds also have two times the amount of potassium like bananas. They have three times the reported antioxidant property of blueberries, with an abundant amounts of omega 3 and omega 6, great essential fatty acids. They are also packed with three times more iron than spinach. To bad Popeye didn’t know this!

Chia seeds can easily be stored away for about four to five years, as long as they are stored in a dry and sealed. Their nutritional value will not breakdown nor will their flavour or absorb any odours.

Eating Chia seeds will also make you lose weight, especially when adding them to foods. It bulks any food that can be prepared, losing calories and fat without changing the flavour. Basically cause you to get full faster, filling up your belly with more nutrients, water and proteins.

Chia also slows the impact of sugars on your system, if eaten together with foods that have a higher sugar content it will slow the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar. This means the energy from the food is released bit by bit.

Chia seeds will also work like liquid plumber, but not as quickly, they will unclog any drain. They will go through your intestinal tract, helping to loosen and get rid of old collected waste in the intestines. You will find that your stools will also become more regular once chia seeds are introduce into your diet. :)

Chia seeds will assist the rapid development of tissue payable to its unbelievable nutrient biography and easy assimilation. I feel like I might be turning into a Borg, that was a Trekkie joke ;) . It can be very healthful for those healing from injuries, people like athletes or people like myself who have done a 60 day hot yoga challenge, and who are trying to prevent scar tissue from forming again. It is also good for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Here are some other benefits of eating Chia Seeds and or relieves or supports some of your medical conditions?

  • Provides energy
  • Increase Energy
  • Boosts strength
  • Boost endurance
  • Levels blood sugar
  • Diabetes
  • Heart Wellness
  • Lowering cholesterol
  • Relief From Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Feeling Good
  • Anti Aging
  • Regulated Blood Pressure
  • Reducing Menopause Symptoms
  • Gastro-intestinal Health
  • Bone Health
  • Mental Health
  • Control Of Type ll Diabetes
  • Prenatal Health
  • Breast Health
  • Prostate Health
  • Weight loss/Maintenance
  • Thyroid conditions
  • Hypo-glycaemia
  • IBS
  • Aids intestinal regularity
  • Celiac disease
  • Gluten Intolerance/Sensitivity
  • Acid reflux

 Here is the recipe to make Chia Gel.  1/3 cup chia seeds and 2 cups water.  Enjoy.

This was brought to you by Gluten Free Ottawa and FUK Flour.  We hope you enjoyed this article and come back again soon.  GF Swami :)

 

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50 Gluten Free Ways To Use Chia Seeds

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Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 01-05-2012

Category : Food, Travel & Play

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First lesson of Chia seeds is that they can be turned into a gel and used in almost anything.  See my other post on “The Power Food Of The Golden Age”, which talks about the nutritional value of these mighty tiny power seeds.

 

 

To make Chia Gel:

Mix 1/3-cup chia seeds to 2 cups water. Stir. This is the ‘basic gel’ recipe that can be stored in your fridge and used as required.

 

Here are your 50 GF ways to use chia seed:

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of chia seeds with a quarter cup of water to make an egg substitute for baking cakes and cookies.

2.  Mix seeds in with your yougurt.

3. Grind seeds and add to hot milk to make a “porridge”

4.Add chia seeds pineapple juice and coconut milk to make a tropical Sago drink.

5. Add seeds to any soups to thicken or add nutrients.

6. Grind seeds or add whole into your gluten free pancakes.

7. Add seeds to salad dressings.

8. Add chia seeds into your smoothies.

9. Add seeds to diluted fruit juice power drink.

10. Make chia pudding by adding whole seeds to milk, or any alternative milk product.

11. .Eat chia seeds whole/raw as a snack.

12. Make a “Yopchia” by blending chia seeds, yogurt and kefir.

13. Add chia gel seeds to beaten eggs to make an omelette.

14. Add them to your gluten free bbq sauce and brush over your meats. Are you getting the idea yet :)

15. Add ground chia seeds to flour when making bread.

16.  Add them to GF rice crispy squares.

17. Add whole chia seeds to a gluten free cake batter or gluten free muffin batter for nutrients.

18. Throw some seeds into your stews to thicken.

19. Add some seeds into your stir fry.

20. Add them to your favourite gluten free pizza crust.

21. Sprinkle seeds over salads.

22. Add them to a fruit salad.

23. Add them to you GF favourite chili to thicken.

24. Soak seeds in beaten eggs or substitute for eggs and use this mixture to make a Frittata.

25. Add them to your rice when cooking.

26. Garnish cakes with chia seeds by soaking them with fruit juice and fruit to make a topping.

27. Add whole or ground seeds to your cookie recipes.

28. Mix ground seeds with ground beef to make your meatballs.

29. Add gluten free chai seeds to stage 4 toddler foods.

30. Toast and ground your chia seeds into a mix with honey and cinnamon to make a type of GF graham recipe base.

31. Add whole seeds to your homemade granola bars.

32. Add them into your gluten free pasta sauce, just through some in.

33. Use them to make your chia pet ;)

34. Mix ground seeds with butter or cashew butter for a nutritious spread.

35. Cinnamon, ground chia and butter is great on hot GF toasted bread.

36.Add them into an avocado salad, will help with the cholesterol too.

37. Garnish your fresh bake gluten free breads.

38. Mix the seeds, whole or ground into your favourite gluten free jams.

39. Add ground seeds to hamburger mix.

40. Soak chia seeds in milk and mix through cooked gluten free steel cut oats.

41. Add a tablespoon of chia seeds to your tapioca.

42. Add ground chia seed to your home made garlic butter.

43.Add chia seeds to left over coffee and some palm sugar and use it over GF ice cream.

44. Add ground or whole chia seeds to your favourite gluten free stuffing.

45. Mix in seed with your favourite GF cereal.

46. Make a super power drink by adding coconut water and chia seed.

47. Add ground chia seeds to your favourite stir fry.

48. Add in chia seed to your ground beef when making gluten free Shepards pie.

50. Use a thick chia gel as a facial mask.
You can basically add Chia seeds to almost anything and they provide so much nutrients.   They also  have healing properties, and aid in other medical conditions due to their richness in botanical source Omega 3 fatty acids.  Remember to check out my other posts on Chia Seeds.  This has been brought to you by Gluten Free Ottawa and FUK Flour.

 

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For All You Alcohol Lovers: Here is Your Gluten Free List.

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Posted by Darren Potvin | Posted on 25-04-2012

Category : Food, FUK Flour, Travel & Play

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I probably don’t have all the gluten free Spirits and Beers listed here, but I have about 90% of them.   All distilled alcohols are gluten-free so there is your safety tip.  Here is a major list I put together for both Canada and US.  It was a blast tasting them all and using myself as a guinea pig, poor me ;) …

 

The GF List:

Absinthe, Armagnac, Baiju, Bourbon, Frangelico, Gin, Grand Marnier, Grappa, Grenadine, Jägermeister, Kahlua, Kirschwasser, Margarita (the traditional blend of tequila, triple sec, salt, and lime) or Mix (Jose Cuervo & Mr. & Mrs. T), Martini (the traditional blend of gin and vermouth) or Vodka Martini, Mead, Ouzo, Pisco, Port Wine, Sherry, Southern Comfort, Triple Sec, Vermouth & Sake.

Here is a list of potato made Gluten Free Vodkas: Adamba, Blue Ice, Chopin, Cold River Vodka, Ciroc (made from French Grapes), Jankill, Jinro Soju (not really vodka, but very similar), Kamachatka, Luksusowa, Monopolowa, Nisskosher Polish, Peconika, Teton Glacier, Victory & Zodiac

 

Gluten Free Rum: Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Barcardi, Malibu – Most rums are made from sugar cane. Captain Morgan indicated that the spiced rum contains no gluten ingredients.

 

 

Gluten Free Tequila:  Jose Cuervo, Sauza, Centinela. Real tequila is made from a plant called Blue Agave and is part of the Lilly family of plants.

 

 

Gluten Free Whiskey: Scotch whiskey, Chivas, Jack Daniels, Bourbon, – Most whisky’s are gluten free because of the distilling process.

 

 

Gluten Free Cognac: Remy Martin – Cognac is made from fermented white grapes, most are all GF.

 

Gluten Free Brandy: EJ Brandy. Brandy is produced from fermented fruits other than grapes, but these products are typically named eaux-de-vie.

 

 

 Gluten Free Cider: Woodpecker Cider, Strongbow, Gaymers Cider… fermented from apples or other fruits. Some are safe, however, many add barley for enzymes and flavor so make sure your read your ingredients or GF label.

 

 

Gluten Free Wine and Gluten Free Champagnes: Hillier Creek Estates Vineyard & Winery, Sandbanks Estate Winery, Berringer, Black Hill Estate, Five Oaks. Nearly all wines or champagnes are gluten free since they are made from grapes. On the flip side wine coolers may not be gluten free since they contain barley malt and or wheat (modified food ingredient/starch).

 

 

 

Gluten Free Beer: Better Bitters, Green’s Quest, Brunehaut Bio Blonde, Green’s Endeavor, Redbridge, Messagère, Les bières de la Nouvelle-France…

Most beers are made from barley, wheat or rye which contain gluten.  There are a number of growing  gluten free beer companies popping up now available to celiac patients & gluten intolerant. Gluten free beer uses two common substitute grain plants.  One of those is called Sorghum and the other is Buckwheat, but there are a few which are made with Barley (with gluten-extracted).

 

Gluten Free Ottawa & FUK Flour hope you enjoyed this list, cause I sure did.  Remember always read your ingredients or verify with a gluten free label.  Drink safe and also drink smart, don’t drink and drive. GF Swami :)
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