I really wish that my stomach shared my affinity for fancy and flavorful meals, but if the past two days are any indication, then it definitely does not. You know how people tend to clean up their diets after indulging over the holidays? That’s all well and good, but the only goal I’ve had since Sunday night has been to convince my stomach to let go of the 3-months pregnant look by going back to simple foods after a few days of brunches, lunches, and dinners that were a little out of my normal eating style, and not exactly to my stomach’s liking.
I’ve had a finicky stomach for as long as I can remember. My childhood was plagued with debilitating stomach woes, numerous visits to the doctor, and countless tests that yielded no concrete results. The older I got, the more docile my stomach seemed to become, but I still have to be careful with what I put in it unless I want to suffer it’s wrath. Unfortunately, I wasn’t particularly all that careful this weekend, and I’ve definitely been suffering a little bit of wrath as a result. Fortunately, it’s nothing that a few days of simple eats can’t fix, so today’s WIAW is going to be all about the simple and satisfying, starting with breakfast…
Plain Greek yogurt mixed with a sliced banana, homemade applesauce, Weetabix, and almond butter.
… and moving right along into simple morning snacks to munch on…
An orange and a cheese string.
My appetite has been kind of non-existant in the mornings, but if there’s anything I learned about dealing with stomach woes, it’s that it’s always a good idea to make sure that something is in it – letting it get too empty is just asking for more trouble. Luckily, packing simple, kid-friendly lunches that totally make the 10-year old in me giddy with excitement haven’t been too hard to choke down 😉
Roasted almond butter and blueberry jam sandwich.
Money shot – baby carrots, cherry tomatoes, and applesauce.
Remember how last week I complained about lunch being my least favorite meal of the day? All I can say is that eating more lunches like this will definitely change my mind on that one. I may or may not have shed a few tears when I finished my last bite. Of course, that may have just been because of how bad that particular flavor of applesauce was. Ugh. It tasted what I imagine it would taste like to lick the bottom of a well-travelled boot. Not good – don’t buy it. Thankfully, my afternoon snack was much more enjoyable…
Chocolate for the soul, kombucha for the stomach.
Oddly enough, candy and junk food never seem to cause my stomach any distress. I remember feeling like I had a stomach of steel during my teenage years when I was basically living off McDonald’s, KD, and sugar – it wasn’t until I cleaned up my diet and started eating healthier foods that my stomach starting becoming a bit more temperamental. I’m not exactly sure what to make of that at this point, so let’s move right along and talk about dinner instead…
Infamous Easter leftovers. Not the simplest of meals, but I seem to do alright as long as I keep the herbs, spices, and sauces to a minimum. Plain buckwheat definitely isn’t anything to write home about, but the coconut mango chicken more than made up for it. It’s something that I just kind of threw together during all of our Easter prep, and I may just have to share the recipe with you guys because it was good stuff. Come to think of it, I can’t even remember the last time I posted a lunch/dinner/savory recipe on Spoons 😯 It’s been nothing but muffins, loaves, cookies, and bars around these parts lately, but I blame that on the fact that I have raging sweet tooth, as evidenced by my choice of bedtime snacks…
Chocolate oats with a scoop of coconut Greek yogurt and almond butter.
And that right there is What I Ate Wednesday Tuesday, alternatively called What I Ate to Soothe My Sensitive Stomach. Hope you guys are having an awesome day; and if you haven’t had enough of me already, I have a guest post up over on Alex’s blog that you should definitely head on over to, because that girl is just fabulous. Happy Wednesday!
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Do you have a finicky stomach? Or have you been blessed with a stomach of steel?
What made up your typical childhood lunches? A sandwich, juice box, and fruit snacks.
How do you eat your oranges? Peel the whole thing at once or slice them up and stick the slices in your mouth?
Before I say anything else, I need to comment about the before-bed chocolate oats. Umm, yummm. If anyone knows how to queue a craving for oats, it’s you!
As you know, my stomach is *extremely* finicky–especially right now. Almost all foods–with the exception of white rice, bananas, and rice cakes–makes it turn somersaults. It’s something I’ve learned to deal with, but gosh, I’d do anything to return to my younger years, when I could eat anything consequence-free. It wasn’t until I began recovering from my ED that my GI system began to turn wonky. This is actually an issue I’m really interested in, as it seems SO many women who have struggled with eating issues in their past have IBS or something related.
Oh, how I loved my childhood lunches! My mom would usually pack a peanut butter and honey sandwich (or tortilla–I actually enjoyed the combination rolled up in a wrap with banana even more), carrot sticks and dip, crackers/chips, and some kind of cookie or sweet treat. I loved unwrapping each component of my meal, and dipping/dunking accordingly. Lunch was my favorite part of the day!
I have a finicky stomach, I have all my life, but we’re finally starting to pin point the culprit and I think it’s gluten. Sugar actually seems to bother me too – so your’e lucky that it doesn’t bother you!!
I asked you months ago about Weetabix (wasn’t sure if we had them in the US). Well, we do! I found them at TJ’s and had to try them. I love them!
I understand the stomach woes. Sometimes my worst symptoms are after my healthiest meals?!
Glad you found them! Hope they’re not causing you any stomach woes 😉
Ahh i like to think i have a stomach of steel haha but too much rich food or stuff that I’m not used to causes trouble after more than one meal. I noticed a similar thing when i cleaned up my diet too haha…way more trouble with my tummy with certain veggies and whatnot than the fast food and such i used to eat…i prefer not to think about what that may mean 😛
I definitely have a weird stomach. It doesn’t seem to be consistent though. I’ll be bloated at weird times, stuffed, then STARVING. I actually have times when I can’t tell whether I’m really full or still hungry. Bizarre. I find that cutting out artificial sweeteners helps, as well as taking probiotics. I just wish I could afford to drink Kombucha everyday, but my student budget would give me a round-house kick to the face.
I never really had stomach issues until I got older… I’m one of those people who wakes up in the morning with a completely flat stomach, and as soon as I get some food in it -BAM- I look about 3 months pregnant. And since my ED, I noticed that if I get even the slightest bit hungry, my stomach bloats even more and even starts to hurt — and no, eating on this kind of stomach does not alleviate the bloating or pain, and actually makes the bloating worse! So annoying. That’s why I’m constantly eating!
And my typical lunches were sandwiches with ham, keilbasa, cream cheese or… beef pate (sp?). Yeah. My mom never made the typical PB&J for me and I really only had it for the first time a few years ago. I was missing out big time!
I’ve noticed the same thing when it comes to constantly having to eat – that’s the only way to keep my stomach from acting up as well!
And another thing..how do you make ur chocolate oats?? Its look like a spectacular work of art 😉
I just cook oats normally and then add about a Tbsp. or so of cocoa powder to the pot when all the water has been absorbed. Then I throw some chocolate chips in there to make it all creamy and delicious.
Your sandwich is making me drool! Yum. I’ll be sure to avoid the applesauce; I’ve never really enjoyed the tasting the bottom if a boot…gross.
Your Amanda-friendly “PB&J” (aka AB&J) made ME giddy, too.
My stomach is the same way-always a mess haha. I tend to eat the same food because I know what works for me. Whenever I throw in a sugar induced food coma after holidays, it’s never good. I feel like when your body is not used to eating certain foods and you throw them back in overload all at once, it makes sense it would have a bad reaction. But I do need some chocolate every once in awhile 🙂
love Gillian Flynn, have you read Gone Girl and Sharp Objects? I am still waiting on Sharp Objects from the library but I am sure I will love it as well
I’ve read Gone Girl but not Sharp Objects. Her books are definitely twisted, but strangely enjoyable. I’m always surprised by the endings too.
I am totally in recovery mode too! my workout last night was brutal because I have eaten some candy and junky food that last two days…eek!
Aaahh tummy troubles are the worst. Used to suffer after a meal loaded with veggies, but since I don’t do that any longer its very sweet things that destroy my tummy. A Reeses’ Cup the other day brought on some incredible discomfort (worth it of course!). PB sandwiches always ruled my lunches. I cannot eat an unpeeled orange..has to be peeled & the segments separated :p . On an unrelated note I skeptically tried your savory pizza oats..let’s just say it features almost every day right now :D!
Sorry to hear about your stomach woes – I hope they’ll cease soon. Regarding why you feel like you had an easier time digesting candy and fast food: I’m certainly no expert but I’ve heard that might be because they’re far more processed than other foods hence making them easier to handle for our stomaches. No need to break down fibrous whole grains or fruit but readily available – yet obviously not as long lasting – energy.
As for your meals they might be simple but sure look delicious. My current Greek yogurt kick is still going on like crazy and your pictures don’t help lessen the cravings ;).
With PB & J not being a German staple my school lunches usually consisted of whole grain bread with cheese or deli meats, a piece of fruit and mineral water. Yes, I was really jealous of those kids who got juice boxes and even sweets.
That certainly makes a lot of sense regarding the junk foods… I may have to do some diet experiments soon. And with my parents being European and all, most of my childhood sandwiches were made with meats and cheeses as well, so you’re not alone on that front!
I have a stomach of steel, for sure. Sometimes I wish it was just a a little finicky, so that I had to avoid junk food. 😉 I snuck a peek of Dark Places….I just finished it. What do you think, so far? I really liked it, but it’s definitely DARK.
I’m really enjoying it so far, but it’s definitely disturbing. Seems like all of Flynn’s books are similar in that respect, and after the ending of Gone Girl, I’m really curious to see how this one turns out!
I have the worst stomach ever. Since I have IBS, I find a lot of healthier foods kill me.. (I’m looking at you, brussel sprouts and kale). It’s sad, but oh well. 🙂
When I eat an orange, I peel the whole thing than divide it in half and eat the segments to each half. I always peel it the same way, too. It’s kind of funny. I don’t mind all of your recipes being bars, loaves, cookies, and muffins because – well – those are the best foods. haha! Cherry applesauce? Ew. That makes me think of cough syrup.
Btw, the shot of your almond butter and jam makes me want to lick my computer screen.
Ahhh, grilled PB & J sandwiches are my favorite!!! I SO need to try making one with almond butter. I love the way that the nut butters melt. That picture is seriously making me drool ;).
So sorry you have stomach issues sometimes… it’s funny that you mention cleaner eating making it worse… a lot of people have trouble digesting whole grains or beans, or dairy… so many possible explanations, but it’s never fun to have to cut something out completely. Yummy eating day, nut butter and jelly never gets old!
A lot of whole grains do me in, as do most beans. Dairy I seem to be okay with, but too many veggies are definitely a no-go. Definitely not always easy to remember that what’s “healthier” might not always be!
I definitely also have a finicky stomach so I feel your pain, girl.
Your food photos look awesome. I am jealz of that cadbury egg and wish I had one.
I always love your breakfast pics!!!
Stomach problems are no fun at all! My stomach is a trooper when it comes to food, although I get nauseous all the time! At least your eats are still gorgeous and delicious! When I’m having stomach issues, all I want is Gatorade and Saltines!
Oh gosh.. my stomach is soooooo finicky I was actually on my death bed yesterday lol I never used to really have these problems (or I did and just thought it was normal lol).. they really came out when I was in college. Lots of fun. Mostly for me it’s raw veggies or any new kinda of “processed” food lol like yesterday, I had a soy yogurt and baby carrots. Carbs and crackers are my friends when that happens haha
Can never go wrong with crackers… or toast… or cereal…
Your pics are making my mouth water…and I just ate breakfast an hour ago! And I too had a stomach of steel growing up and to some extent I still do – I just choose not to put it through any more craziness these days!
Totally have the finicky tummy, although growing up I don’t remember having as many issues, so maybe its something Ive just developed over the years? It gets pretty bad with dairy, and with most greasy foods. Which is a shame since I adore grilled cheeses and nachos, but now adays I just try to have a bite or two. Either that or make a healthier version at home 🙂
I can definiely relate! Rich foods at ten in the morning just don’t agree with my stomach. Those Easter leftovers look amazing though! Happy WIAW 🙂
I appreciate your choice of jam on that lunch sandwich…blueberry is the best variety, in my humble opinion :-p
My typical lunch as a child: a sandwich (although by the end of elementary school I would throw them out), a chocolate pudding cup, a juicebox, and a piece of fruit. That’s sounding pretty good right now actually…
Hope your stomach feels some improvements today!
And p.s. yes, you should absolutely share that chicken recipe. I make pineapple chicken once in a while and love the tropical-y flavour, so coconut and mango sounds right up my alley.
Blueberry is the best jam in my humble opinion too, so that means it must be true 😉
I hope your stomach starts to feel better soon, I have stomach issues too and know how frustraiting it can be 🙁 I love the idea of a warm almond butter sandwich, I need to try that!
I’d be giddy about those lunches too! Get in mah belly!
I’m with you on the stomach issue. Definitely not one made of steal. I’ve been blessed with sensitive everything. Skin, stomach, you name it, I’ve got it. I totally get the feeling! It sucks, but you do what you have to do. I seemed to be that way most of the time.
Even so, your eats always look super delicious!
oh forgot to say that cadburry eggs are def okay with me…love em!!
chocolate oats for bedtime snack, yum.. and there is nothing better than melty nut butter!
I do have a finicky stomach, so I completely understand the whole pregnant feeling belly. So uncomfortable! Have you tried apple cider vinegar? I used to believe all the hype was false, but I have actually surprised at the affects. All you eats look delicious as usual! 🙂
Yup, I’ve tried taking ACV and my stomach actually got WORSE as a result. It’s a shame because I’ve heard so many good things, but it just goes to show you that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to diet.
Sorry I know this is an old post but I was looking up finicky stomach issues- I found the same thing ACV made my stomach woes ten times worse- I even persevered for about a month to see if it would get better- just made my stomach die 🙁 ugh. I also find I feel worse with healthy things than plain or junk food. Normal bread, plain white rice even McDonalds feels better than lots of kale or veggies! And after the ACV shenanigans I think it best to just listen to my body- and hey a lovely white crusty roll with butter sounds pretty good to my mind and body 😉
How funny – yesterday was National PB&J day in the U.S.! We always seem to have these random food-themed days. There’s something about a childhood meal that always makes everything better, huh?
It’s official.. I want to come visit you, and eat all those amazing meals with you.. especially the chocolate oats! Oh & than we can go on a shopping spree for some beauty products & then do whatever else there is to do in Canada.. please tell me your game?!!
Definitely game! You’re welcome any time 🙂 I recommend summer since it’s not quite as cold.
That sandwich…unreal. Drippy almond butter is the best! I agree, though, it’s definitely hard to get back into your daily eating routine after being on vacation/celebrating holidays. I’m glad your stomach is starting to get along with you better 🙂
I need that almond butter, blueberry jam toastie combo now!!!! Pity I’ve given up bread *cries* x
Say it ain’t so! You can always enjoy the AB and jam combo in other ways though! As an oatmeal topping is one way that comes to mind…
Oh man I hope your stomach is feeling better today..nothing worse than feeling like a pregnant lady because of food :(! Fortunately my stomach is very tolerant especially compared to the past. Before I could only work out on an empty stomach- which sucked on those days I woke up hungry for breakfast! Now I can’t even imagine working out without eating something first (preferably a proper brekkie)!
Your eats may be simple but they sure are delicious…I especially love lunch! I always feel like a 4th-grader when I opt for PB & J (or B) sandwich for a meal! My orange-eating ways resemble yours completely….slicing/sticking in the mouth reminds me of the one season I signed up for Saturday Baseball. We’d always snack on them after practice and especially in the heat, it more than hit the spot!
I’ve always had a sensitive stomach – esp to milk. I can handle a little yogurt and raw cheese though. I don’t know what I’d do w/o my goat cheese!! In my older years, I’ve noticed that it doesn’t seem to be specific foods that irritate me, but rather how I combine them. A few years ago, my gut was completely destroyed & EVERYTHING I ate made me sick. It was horrible – I couldn’t eat more than a slice of toast at one time w/o serious gut woes. But, I’m better now. YAY! 😀
I’ve always had an iron stomach but that could be because I don’t eat a lot of “clean” foods. That sounds really crazy to say but I do eat processed things and I don’t live off of fruits and veggies because that’s when I start to feel the crazy bloating and stomach pain. If I eat my pizza it tastes good AND it keeps my stomach satisfied and happy. Maybe it isn’t the healthiest way to approach things but I’m lucky that I’ve never had problems with what I’m eating. I do understand the need to go back to eating normal again though. After a weekend of indulgent foods, there’s nothing I want more than to go and eat some pretty benign foods, loaded with greens 🙂
I’ve noticed the same thing when it comes to healthy foods. The healthier I eat, the worse I tend to feel so… yeah. I’m honestly not quite sure what to make of that at this point, but I’m thinking that a little bit of experimentation is going to have to be done soon…
Oh I feel you on the stomach thing. Right now I am carrying twins in 6 months 🙂 Seriously, it’s an issue but I’ve been tested and have no intolerances nor allergies which I love, but it still does not lat me know why my stomach is such a beast.
Favorite child lunches were crepes with sugar&cinnamon! 🙂