So who am I? I come from a long line of Italian heritage, so you know we love our food. I say I was raised in Orem Utah but I also lived for a few years in Rexburg Idaho. I am a mother to five children Kolbie 11, McCoy 10, Weslie 6, Scottie 1, Cove 6 months, a 4lb Poodle x Bichon x Cavalier King Charles mix puppy named Ty and a wife to an amazing husband, Kevin. My life long dream was to become a mother, but before that happened, to pay the bills, I worked as a Dental Assistant.
A few years ago, I started a simple Instagram page called @cleanmondaymeals with zero expectations of it growing into anything other than my place to share all my gluten-free meal prep ideas. You see, I haven’t been gluten-free my whole life. It was about six years ago, after the birth of my third child Weslie. I just couldn’t seem to get back to my old self. I was constantly sick and after months of debilitating stomach pains, and other issues I needed answers. I was misdiagnosed several times, changed doctors, and finally, through a biopsy of the small intestine, they confirmed the celiac diagnosis.
I am frequently asked what my symptoms were so I’ll list out the major ones:
- Weight gain
- Weight loss
- Acne
- Hormone imbalance
- Infertility
- Bloating
- Stomach pains
- Hair loss
- Malnourishment
After starting my new gluten-free lifestyle, I quickly realized how overwhelming it all is and can be. I assumed I wasn’t alone, and every time I found a fantastic product or got a new recipe to work, I had to share it. Those simple posts are what has led me to here. Crazy right?
I have been very blessed, and try to remind myself of that every day because I too am not without trials. I am learning to live with Celiac Disease, PCOS, and all of the problems those illnesses offer.
I could never have dreamed of creating cookbooks or even of having a website. I created my platforms to give back to all of those struggling from similar things as I have and honestly still am. Whether you’re struggling with eating gluten-free, dairy-free, or just trying to feed your family something healthy, that’s yummy, I believe we are all in this together. I have a love for meal prepping and finding ways to make my life easier. Dealing with an auto-immune disease, and being a mom is already hard enough. I hope that by sharing what works for me, I can help or inspire you in your journey, whatever stage you might be in. Thank you for letting me be a part of your life and for all of your support.
The recipes, stories, and products I share with you are real. One thing to know about me is that I will never share any product or service I don’t use and believe in.
I hope the things I share can help you on your journey. I believe that the more I give, the more I receive, and that is why I am doing this.
Sincerely,
Janae Cox / Clean Monday Meals