Getting Fat & Eating Gluten-Free

I was out of shape when I arrived in Italy on January 23rd. I didnt worry about it though, I figured that 5+ pound Christmas gain would melt off in a flash...afterall, I am backpacking over here!!! AHAHHAHA...Boy, was I WRONG!

I have gained at least a solid 6-7 pounds since my arrival--thats a lot! I havent been in the 135 range for over a year and its actually a little distrubing for me! Whats distrubing is not the actual number but rather how I feel. I am normally extremely comfortable in my own skin and confident, regardless if I am up a few pounds or not. However, now being at least 10 pounds over "normal" is just too much for me. I get out of the shower and I feel uncomfortable. I sit in this chair to type and I can feel my gut (yuck!!!), this is not ok with me!

So why am I fatty in Italy?!?!?! Lets talk about my diet....

Eating gluten free is not nesseciarly easier over here like I thought it would be...and what I am eating is very different than back home. Whats been great is that almost all pharmacies stock gluten free food. Not only do they stock gluten-free food, its generally really good gluten free food! Ive gotten to enjoy crossiants, beer, pasta, pastries, etc... The photos below are from a pharmacy in Spences town of Bacoli. A tiny town but with a huge selection of gluten free food!!! They were so generous when I came in to the store to shop that they actually gave me over a third of the items shown below for free! When I had gone to check out, the pharmasist asked if Id like a sample...I said yes and she returned with a full bag of groceries. I was so blown away and touched by her thoughtfulness!! (Another example of why Italians are very kind!)

Back on topic...groceries are working out ok. Eating out is not.

My main selection when going out to dinner is usually antipasti, a plate full of different formaggio (cheeses) and proscuitto (ham). In general, Ive had a plate full of cheese every night...of which, lots and lots is the amazing mozerella di bufalo (that stuff is to die for)! I could definitely eat gelato by the buckets, in Sicily I enjoyed 3 servings a night. And of course--to top off my healthy meals, Ive been ending my nights by downing way too much wine and a variety of mixed cocktails! My new favorite is a white russian...but I wont write about that here because my family will be sure to get mad! LOL

Above: My typical dinner

Anyways, I am officially sick of being unhealthy over here. Ive also gotten a little more stressed out than normal and I feel that the lack of real execise is wearing on me. Today I made healthy food choices, Im going to seek out a salad for dinner, and only drink water. Tomorrow, Im going to attempt to wake up very early and go for a run. However, I am in Venice so its not like there are really "streets"...

I still plan on enjoying the food here, Im just putting myself in check from now on!