In 2020, we discovered that our son couldn’t handle processed foods like most people. He also struggled with gluten, and after some testing, we learned that his body wasn’t properly absorbing nutrients. His intestines had a buildup of yeast, which meant we had to take steps to clear it out and focus on nourishing his body with real, whole foods.
That discovery changed the way our entire family eats. We had to rethink our grocery shopping, learn to read food labels carefully, and eliminate things we once thought were harmless. It wasn’t easy at first, but over time, we developed a routine that worked for us.
Now, five years later, we’re still learning. Clean eating is a journey, not a destination. And while we’ve made huge strides in keeping our meals fresh, whole, and nutrient-dense, one challenge remains—temptation. It’s tough for a teenager to resist the appeal of snacks and fast food, so we do our best to keep our home stocked with foods that support his health rather than challenge it.
We focus on shopping the perimeter of the grocery store—fresh produce, high-quality meats, and dairy. We’ve also found a fantastic store with a large selection of clean, minimally processed foods that help make meal planning easier.
I want to be clear: I’m not a dietitian. Everything we do is simply what works for our family. If you have any specific concerns about diet and nutrition, I always recommend speaking to a doctor or nutritionist. But if you’re looking for inspiration, meal ideas, or a way to start incorporating healthier meals into your life, I’d love to share what has worked for us.
I’ll be posting some of our favorite recipes and meal plans here. If there’s something specific you’d like to see—whether it’s a meal plan for picky eaters, gluten-free snacks, or easy dinners—let me know!
The Anker Homestead 