Hello! I’m Cristina Maria Curp, Cuban-American, mother, military spouse, food lover, and dreamer. Former restaurant chef, current Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, and cookbook author. I created this blog to share my passion for food as medicine. About to turn thirty, with a baby to care for I found myself at rock bottom. Emotionally and physically.
I was severely overweight, riddled with inflammation, pain, and fatigue. Hidradenitis Suppurativa was ragging all over my body. Something needed to change. So I looked at my food choices. As a lifelong binge eater and yo-yo dieter, I was ready to stop the vicious cycle of guilt and self-harm. That is to say… I get it. I’ve been there. I had my day one.
I wasn’t perfect about this healthy lifestyle from day one, and I still am not. But I strive every day to feel better and be better.
A mama with a history of disordered eating, autoimmune disease, and a whole lotta emotional baggage. If I can turn this my hot mess express around, so can you.
I KNOW, I know in my bones that real food is the key to health, and healthy, thriving life is the key to happiness. Here at The Castaway Kitchen, our mission is to spread the word that food does heal. That you can embrace the dietary and lifestyle changes that will change your life and enjoy the food you eat while you do it!
I want you to feel empowered and inspired to heal! By creating delicious resources, sharing information, and my own story, my goal is to help YOU find the nutritional path that is right for you. We’re all so unique and while I do share what has worked for me, it might not be what works for you, but I will help get you there!
Start here: FOOD AS MEDICINE
My Books: Made Whole + Made Whole Made Simple
10 Fun Facts About me:
- Left-handed middle child
- Married to a sailor. We have two babies, a little boy, and our schnauzer.
- Made in Miami, with Cuban parts (first-generation American).
- Bilingual (hablo Español)
- I’m a big girl! 5’9 and toting size 11 feet!
- I’ve lived in Miami, San Diego, Hawaii, and now Virginia
- Sociology and Anthropology Major with a background in market research
- 6 years commercial kitchen experience, 3 as executive chef
- I’m hilarious
- I’m also loud and I talk with my hands
Photo by: Rebecca Borge Photography
Jodie Greenlee says
Christina,
I absolutely love your book MadeWhole!! Finally easy recipes that are full of flavor and color!! Your recipes make me excited about cooking and food again!! Thanks for sharing your journey with us!!
I have a quick question about the classes you are taking on nutrition. I was wondering how you choose the school you are attending and how you made your choice?
Thanks for any insights you may have, I am considering the program myself.
You rock!!!
Jodie
Beverly DiCarlo says
Jodie
Good question. I have the same Christina, how did you decide on your training?
Thank you
Beverly
Cristina says
I wrote a blog post about it 🙂 https://thecastawaykitchen.com/2019/07/what-is-a-nutritional-therapy-practitioner/
Sukina Johnson says
I love that you are hilarious!! I found you through your avocado brownie recipe and I can’t wait to try it. I love that the part where you said Avocado Brownies bitch! I fell out my chair laughing cause I think toddlers are terrorists too and sometimes you do want to cuss and fuss!
Cristina says
I’m glad you get my humor 🙂
John G. says
Hot
Breanna Wellington says
I just heard you on the podcast with Leanne Vogel. I CANT NOT believe you said you have Hidradenitis! You give me faith that I can be healed. I have had such a hard time sticking to Keto but you have given me renewed faith!
Cristina says
Breanna! You can do this! Look into dairy and nightshade free. They tend to be a common trigger for this with HS although we are all different 🙂
Crystal Lucio says
I too have HS and have stalled in using food as medicine for it, even though I know it’s the answer. Trying to stay on a strict diet is so hard for me. I’m so glad you’re out here though!
Cristina says
It is hard, but it does work. I’m always working to finding flexibility with my diet and hoping that one day I won’t have to be so strict.
Sharyn Ross says
I have been on Keto for 3 mo with very little weight loss. (<8's) I follow it to a T. I also have the auto-immune disorder, Hashimoto's. Will the AIP plan give me better results? I'm frustrated that there is very little info out there for weight loss plans if you have AI disorders or Low Functioning thyroid.
Cristina says
The reason there is very little info on that is that weight gain is a symptoms of the autoimmune disease, so essentially you need to heal to lose weight. Hang in there! You might need to try AIP for hashi’s. I can’t promise weightloss results but you might feel a lot better 🙂
Emily says
Sharon, I was also diagnosed with Hashimoto’s and my ND said it could actually be leaky gut and can be reversed. Look into it. Also recommend going Paleo/AIP
Faye says
Sharyn, often when diagnosed with Hashimotos you have to be put on thyroid hormone replacement. Hashimotos is an autoimmune disease that attacks the thyroid and slowly destroys it. Thyroid hormone ((Free T3) is what regulates your metabolism so if you are “borderline” in what is acceptable for a doctor to diagnose you with a thyroid deficiency you may be too low in hormone and may have a harder time in losing weight.
Heather Woodberry says
Hi! I’m the same as Sharyn! Ive been on Keto for 2 months! The 1rst month I lost 12lbs, second month gained 2lbs ..didnt change a thing! Logged all my foods and tracked all macros! I have Hashimotos, PCOS and blood sugar issues..Insulin resistance😳 I’m a Fu**** hot mess lol! Ive tried every type of Doctor, every diet. NOTHING WORKS! I give my to working on my diet/lifestyle but it gives very little back to me. I really Don’t know where to turn anymore! Am I broken within? 😪💔
Serena says
I am starting low carb for the 5th or 6th time. It’s the ONLY thing that truly works for me, but in the past, I’ve found it hard to stick to over the long haul, especially with a husband and son who love carbs and have no weight problems! ? I truly realize now that I have to commit to a lifestyle change, particularly since my daughter also has food challenges. I love all food and love cooking. Yours is the FIRST of MANY low carb websites I’ve seen where the food truly excites me. Thanks so much for providing such an amazing resource. I will definitely be purchasing your book, as well!
Cristina says
Thank you so so much
Bill says
My Daughter, Katie, gave me your book for Christmas. I teared up just reading your story and the intro. Finally, a book about living with healthy foods. I quickly identified with your methods and the science behind your food choices. Having followed the work done by Dr. Loren Cordain, it was an easy reach to understanding the link to paleo in your recipe creations. I love the photos you included. I’m excited about inviting your book into my kitchen. Thank you.
Cristina says
thank you so much Bill!
Susan Steinert says
I really like your new website. Love your recipes in your cookbook. We are going to make the meatless chili for dinner tomorrow. Thanks for sharing it!!
Cristina says
Thank you so much Susan!
Susan G. says
Hey Christina! I’ve just recently found you and I am so excited to have many more recipes and information at my fingertips. I live with RA and had been on strict AIP in 2017 for 7 months before reintros. I lost 30 pounds. Socially it was hard but I managed daily through meal prep on Sundays. It wasn’t easy but it is doable. I just stayed focused on healing. I wouldn’t put anything in my mouth that would sabotage that. My body had reduced some inflammation but not all. I’m not perfect either. I fell off in 2018 but started seeing an integrative medicine physician who performed blood allergy testing. None of the usual suspects came up i.e. gluten, soy, corn, dairy. Many of the foods I enjoyed on AIP, i.e. garlic, squash, cucumber, salmon, showed an allergic reaction. Maybe that’s why I didn’t see the reduction in inflammation that I hoped for. So now I eliminate these foods but still stay away from gluten, soy, corn and limit dairy to grass-fed on occasion. I have recently adopted a Keto lifestyle and changed my supplementation after micro nutrient testing. Maybe I’ll get some energy back. It will be a lifelong journey and I hope to one day find the right mix to rid my body of the inflammation. I bought MadeWhole and already found some yummy recipes. I can’t wait to make more. Thank you for sharing.
Cristina says
Thank you Susan! Welcome!
Michael Vasquez says
I just read a book, Deep Nutrition by Catherine Shanahan, MD. She writes about the human diet, which includes the Four Pillars of the Human Diet, which she coined. This includes:
1.Fresh (umbrella term for variety, local, and seasonal)
2.Fermented & Sprouted
3.Meat On Bone
4.Organs
She is against vegetable oils and sugar. I have stopped the vegetable oils and went with the good fat and meat. Nothing process. Just had my lab done and my HDL was 91 and the radio between my HDL and LDL is 2.2, which is great. And by the way, the cholesterol fear was created by bad science. It’s only been a theory and it’s never been proven by good science.
I will be visiting your page more frequently.
Cristina says
Awesome! Glad you’re here, welcome!
Michael says
Hi Cristina. Love your “made whole” book. It is so great how you have incorporated variations!
I live with a vegan and wonder if you have some favorites which can be converted easily to vegan, or half /half cooking approach? By that, I mean something I can cook for all, adding the proteins at the end, half for the vegans and half for the omnivores. By the way, our vegan does not care about surface or utensils shared in the preparation process.
I think there is a good market out there for a book which can help the families which have both types of eaters in the house. Living in Marin, I have a lot of friends who struggle to pull together a meal for the family when trying to accommodate vegans and keto Omni or others. But i think YOU could do it. Your book is obvious testament to your skills and insight around flavor.
Thanks for giving this some thought.
Cristina says
Thanks so much, Michael! I’m definitely incorporating more vegetarian options into my next book 🙂 I think stir-frys or soups are the best for that kind of thing. Lots of veggies sauces and flavors. Cook the animal protein separately and add in at the end.
Gail Grasso says
HI Cristine, Just to let you know–I downloaded the AIP keto reset–your produce list doesn’t include avocados. Gail
Cristina says
thanks Gail
Jamie Kovacs says
Are there any carb/calorie/fat breakdown of the meal plans?
Cristina says
All the meal plans except the AIP keto reset and Autoimmune Paleo have macros.
lisa says
Cristina, On instagram you talked about a research textbook you were using in your program to understand research studies. Can you tell me the name of this?
Cristina says
It’s titled “how to read a paper”
Jennifer Alvey says
Hi, Cristina:
I bought your cookbook a while back and me and my husband are really enjoying your recipes. We had the sheet pan Pad Thai last night and it was so delicious. I’m making the braised short ribs tonight with the yummy Greek marinade. I’m using mustard greens from our garden instead of cabbage. I’m making your pumpkin chili for my lunch this week. I initially bought your book “Made Whole” because of all your salad dressing and condiment recipes. We’re enjoying everything. Thanks for sharing! This new style of cooking is challenging and you make it easier. I’m living the keto lifestyle to manage blood glucose without medications. I’ve been successful thanks to your delicious recipes. I appreciate your willingness to share your kitchen. Oh, and your chocolate chip cookie recipe is the one I prefer of all the recipes I’ve tried. I always have a stash in the freezer.
Cristina says
Thank you so much Jennifer that means a lot!
Donna M Nugent says
Love your philosophy that real food is the key to health.
I love my fruits and veggies but am stammered with Keto’s lack of them. Hoping you can show me how to use the allowed ones creatively.
Gonna check you out on Facebook.
Cristina says
I use a ton of veggies in my keto cooking and use citrus and berries too. I stick to lots of cruciferous veggies and leafy greens and colorful root veg in small amounts
Cristina says
Hi Rob! Of the 151 recipes in the book, 5 or 6 are also on the blog, the rest are exclusive to the book!
kat says
I have loved your website and reading your cookbook! There is so much valuable info included! So…does the fat in “butter coffee” break my fast on intermittent fasting? usually have my version 9:00ish but don’t eat anything until 12-1-2ish. Also, I might not be adding enough fat to mine: I just use coffee (or tea) w a tablespoon of MCT oil and marine collagen. I have no experience with beef gelatin but have read your info on page 55 indicating their similarity. My marine collagen (quite expensive, beneficial to joints) dissolves completely so does not thicken at all, even after beverage has cooled. Does you beef collagen thicken your coffee? or if it cools off?
I there any benefit to using beef gelatin inst of collagen? what brand do you use? Do I need to add more fat? butter is harder for me to drink so would it be just as beneficial to add 2 more T of MCT oil…although that might be more expensive than getting used to butter. I don’t ususally get my coffee drank while it is hot so the butter solidifies on top as it cools while the MCT oil stays liquid. Thank you so much for your help and sharing your journey and expertise with us!
Cristina says
Collagen and Gelatin are the same thing, but collagen is broken down further to make it water soluble. I use gelatin in my cooking and baking a lot, so it’s more cost effective to just use gelatin and stir it into hot beverages if that makes sense. You don’t need fatty coffee on keto, I often just drink coffee with almond milk in it 🙂 MCT’s create ketones, which is why ppl love em on keto, but not needed to get into ketosis or be keto at all.
Feda says
Kristina, I always read about night shades, but don’t know exactly what are these
Cristina says
Freda they are a group of plants that can be inflammatory to some ppl, like me. Tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, eggplant
Kyle says
Hi, I like your site, however, without being too negative, I want to say that you should really reread everything you write because there are many typos in your blog about “What Keto is”. And in order for me to take you seriously, I would recommed proof reading. If you want to put yourself out to the world, where there are 100’s of keto sites to choose from, you’ll want to check what you write to appear professional.
Thank you and again, just some feed back for you.
Your recipes look delicious.
*I had “googled” dairy free keto and this site popped up.
In case you are wondering about said typo filled article.
Kyle says
I do, really like your humor and honesty.
No need to publish my comment about proof reading. It was a personal critique and not meant to be a public humiliation. I just wanted you to know there were some, (autocorrected?) Typos that sneak up on us, sometimes.
Thank you
Kyle
Cristina says
I’m a one-woman show. I use grammarly and go back and fix things as I see them. But again, one person with a business to run, social media to keep up with, writing my second book (which thankfully has editors) and also in school, and I keep a small human alive too. It’s a lot and I do the best I can.
Casey says
I bought your book in the fall and LOVE just about every recipe in it! I love that there were sauces and desserts. So seriously great job!
Cristina says
Thank you so much Casey!!
Maureen says
HI there! I just came across your web-site. It looks amazing!! Congratulations on your journey and thank you for sharing it!! I have diverticulitis presently for about the 5th time in 3 years. I am presently on antibiotics and a liquid diet. I have learned stuff here and there from Dr Axe and my naturopath but I too suffer with compulsive eating etc. Unfortunately, I am now almost 60, post-menopause, 5’3, used to be 5ft 4, shrinking, and about 200 lbs. Help! Advice!! Thank you in advance.
Cristina says
Hi Maureen, head to the blog area of my site, there are a lot of free resources and information at your disposal
Vannee says
Thanks for sharing your story and recipes. Will try it soon. Following the keto trend at the moment.
Anna says
Okay, I have your book and have made some of the recipes. Question: When it requires Microwaving, what is the alternative? I do not own one and would like to be able to do without one.
Cooking cauliflower rice? Any thoughts?
Thank you in advance. I am on this journey and your are an inspiration.
Cristina says
Oh like for the tortillas? Yes, you can just steam them stove top in a skillet with a tight fitting lid and a tablespoon of water.
As for cooking cauliflower rice my preferred method is in the oven, check out my crispy cauliflower fried rice recipe here on the blog!
Beverly says
My husband won your Made Whole cookbook at the Atlanta Nourish festival. My question: how many calories are in the daily AIP diet. My friend is in dire need of the AIP but cannot afford to lose any more weight. Thank you.
Cristina says
Hi Beverly, caloric needs aren’t about the diet, it’s about the person. AIP is not about weight loss, it’s about healing. So I would tell your friend to make sure they eat plenty! I recommend they use an app like Cronometer and they can plug in their personal information to figure out how many calories they need to maintain or gain weight.
Maria T Slibeck says
Just found your blog! My 16yr daughter is overweight and suffering with HS! Diet change has been hard for us. But as a mother, I have to do something to help her! We just celebrated her 16th bday on a cruise and I couldn’t get her in a bathing suit or in the pool. According to the labs she is sensitive to soooo many things. How will we ever cut it all out? Her dermatologist wants to start autoimmune therapy and I do not want to go there!!! I’m so glad I have found this resource! Thank you. Thank you for sharing your story.
Niki says
Hello, I just listened to your pod cast with Ket o Connect and I just wanted to let you know I think you rock!
Cristina says
Thanks so much Niki!!!!
Kim says
I am definitely going to be keeping track of you lady :)! I’m an Air Force mama, Veteran spouse, speech pathologist and worn out, aging, big girl (5’11” size 12 feet!!)
Hubby and I did keto”ish” for a few months before his bilateral knee replacements. Winter in Iowa hit and we slid too.
I have minimal cooking skills and prefer very basic foods (midwestern meat and potatoes) but ready to branch out. Your work comes highly recommended by my knitting friends…..and away we go!
Cristina says
Welcome Kim!!!!
Joni says
Nice to meet you! My brother is the middle child and left-handed, too, like you. My first pet as an adult was a min. Schnauzer! ? Great dogs.
Love your Instagram posts and fabulous food creations. ?
Cristina says
Welcome Joni!
Charlie Jones says
Hey Cristina
So good to find your website. I and my wife are doing the Atkins program… your site is awesome. Looking forward to shrinking with you.
Cristina says
Thanks Charlie!
Anne Eberly says
Cristina,
My name is Ann I’m from NJ and my girlfriend in Massachusetts is crazy about you and your books. She is always preparing one of your delicious recipes. I’ve enjoyed quite a few.
The reason I’m writing to you today is because I’m going to see her next week and I wanted to take or make the necklace you wear! Did that surprise you? She was showing me one of your cookbooks and out of nowhere she said “I love this necklace she wears and she has it on in almost all the photos. I searched the Internet for pictures of you and tried to zoom in on your neck to get a close up look at the necklace! I can’t make it out! Is it a heart sideways?! Is it on a silve or gold chain? I just can’t tell… even with a magnifying glass She’s hard to buy for and this would be perfect. She loves the necklace and adores you and you work. Thank you
. Please keep up the good work you’re making a lot of people happy and healthy
All the best
Cristina says
Hi Ann, that’s so sweet. There’s a close up picture on my Instagram feed someone. But it’s more of an oval shape with a flat top, it’s a simple red gem on a brown string.
jill janoff says
60 y/o with multiple autoimmune issues and a LOT of food allergies, including gluten, garlic and onions.
Where do I start with keto?
Cristina says
I have several meal plans on the blog and in my book, I also have some posts on the blog section, see QUICK START GUIDE TO DAIRY FREE KETO. My recipes are not onion and garlic free, but you can always omit them from the recipes.
Amy PLUMMER says
Please sign me up for your emails
Cristina says
you can sign up on any page, just check the side bar or the top of the screen
Darlene Simmons says
Sounds great sign me up. Left handed here!!
Linda Koyamatsu says
Hi Cristina,
I have your book “Made Whole”. Your seasoning or pallet is very similar to mine. I try to stick with Keto. My son is milk intolerant, so your recipes are very helpful. Regarding your Keto Egg Roll Poppers, I was wondering what the pork rinds add to the poppers? I like your enthusiasm and realness.
Thank you,
Linda
Cristina says
Thanks so much Linda! The pork rinds are like breadcrumbs, they add texture and help bind the mix.
Lisa Goodman says
Hi Cristina. I’ve been following you on Instagram and I finally purchased your 2 week egg free/dairy free Keto plan and for some reason I saw it briefly and then tried to save each recipe on my phone and then lost the original 2 week plan. And now, I cannot access it without paying an additional $10. Could you please help?
Thx!
Cristina says
I have sent you a new link, however, you get 5 TIMES TO DOWNLOAD IT, which means that it’s probably saved somehwere on your computer, probably the downloads. This time, please be sure to save the PDF document.
Erin says
Hi Cristina! I have just devoured your book, Made Whole, & I absolutely love it!! I am currently transitioning to the AIP elimination phase, but found many recipes to be too carb-focused. I was so excited to see how you combine the best of keto, Paleo, & AIP! I cannot wait to try every single one of your recipes!
Question before I purchase your meal plans- are they different than what is in your book?
Thank you for sharing your awesomeness! 🙂
Cristina says
Thank you so much Erin!!!
The meal plans on my blog and the ones in my book are totally different 🙂
Danielle Fuentes Johnson says
I’ve just found your site and am exploring. I’ve done AIP and paleo before, had a baby and fell off. Boriqua living in Charlottesville, VA. AIP is hard on Latino kitchens! So glad to still have platanos, madras, yuca, etc…
Looking forward to exploring the site and trying some new recipes! Gracisas!!
Cristina says
Bienvenida!
Laurie says
Hi. I’m looking for Keto coaching. I have recently decided to intermittent fast and I’m loving this way of life. But, I’m drawn to Keto to stop all of the cravings I have for carbs. I’m just not sure I’m on the right track. A few coaching sessions would really help me. Do you have any insight? Thanks!
Cristina says
I don’t to keto coaching per se… I practice Nutritional Therapy… and know and support a keto lifestyle if it is what will truly benefit my client. You can read more about my coaching here: https://mailchi.mp/37b455579bad/cristina-curp-nutritional-therapy-practitioner
Maria T Slibeck says
Cristina, my daughter was diagnosed w HS at age 13yr. Now at age 16, she is plagued w constant sores and constant pain. Originally, we were not told of the severity or the chronic nature of HS. Now having educated ourselves and seen how this disease has progressed, I am desperate to help
her. Where do I even start?
We have had an appointment w her dermatologist for 5 months now for a laser hair removal under her armpits to eliminate the irritation from shaving, but I haven’t been able to find any research stating that this helps or really anyone (Facebook groups) that have done this. Have you?
Finally, what are some forums or social media communities on HS that I can join?
Thank you,
Maria
Cristina says
The Hidden Plague by Tara Grant is must-read for anyone with HS. There is also a good facebook group called HS Diet Connection.
Hugs mama! I know how hard it is. But diet and stress management is everything. She can heal and live pain-free!
Diane Savoy says
I have been losing weight but I would like new food ideas.
Michelle Robbins says
I just received your cookbook last night and am excited! I’ve been a Whole30 follower for a few years with two rounds down but mostly eating the Whole30 way consistently (at least during the week!) I also have high potassium so many of the healthy, leafy green vegetables I ate on Whole30 spiked my potassium.
Anyway, it’s nice to see some other options in your cookbook. And, I LOVE the way you organized it with page references and plain talk. Thank you!!!
Michelle Robbins
Cristina says
I hope its very useful to you! Thank you so much
Annie Carvalho says
Hey Cristina, on the first page you say :Set your protein goal (.5g-1g per lb of body weight), set your carb limit (20-50 g total/day), the rest of your calories come from fat, eat as much or as little as you need to feel food.
Did you mean to eat as much or little as you need to feel GOOD?
Cristina says
HAHA, oops, yes, it’s meant to say to feel good. Caloric needs vary so much per person, as do carb needs (hence the range).
Lesa says
Hello! I just bought your book and to be honest I only went through the recipes. Today, I have decided to change my eating and actually started Made Whole from the beginning. I have the same health issues. I eat horribly. I did well straight Keto but stopped and wanted to start eating well again. Your story has inspired me and I look forward to a new journey. I decided to write in my book as I go. Like a journal to keep me engaged. I just came to your website today and wanted to say hi and thank you. Thank you for your honesty and giving me the resources to get well from the inside out. Im nervous, anxious, and ready to try.
Best
Lesa
Cristina says
Thank you so much Lesa! I hope it’s a great resource for you as well as my blog and online community!
Heather Hoffman says
Hello
I have been dealing with stomach issues since I was kid and I LOVE food! I’m Lebanese American and my mom is the best chef! I’ve been to at least 10 GI docs and I finally saw a naturopath who did a blood food sensitivity test and I can’t believe I’m severely sensitive to eggs, beef, gluten, dairy and almonds. I’ve been keto for 3 years and I’m pretty devastated. Are your recipes tailored to many of these foods? Thoughts? Thank you! Your food always looks amazing (and you too:))
Cristina says
It can be hard to navigate food issues… I wouldn’t take the test results as a life sentence. There can be false positives on those tests and if your doctor isn’t addressing root cause issues like leaky gut, low stomach acid, inflammation, then get a new doctor! That being said, my recipes are all paleo or keto or both. ALL of them are gluten free, MOST of them are dairy free (I use a little ghee or butter) and a lot are also nut and egg free. As for beef free, just avoid the beef recipes. You can filter recipes via your dietary needs in my recipe index. Just click on paleo, keto, nut free, egg free and search in the chicken and seafood menus.
Debbie says
I am so ready to feel good got close late July then got off and have trouble getting back on. You are a great blessing. Glad I found your sites!
Cristina says
I’m glad you’re here too!
Fatima says
Hi Cristina,
Wow. I could totally relate to your binge eating and everything else. After 4 kids, I too hit rock bottom. It is very brave of you to fight back. My biggest problem is stress, I just tense up and then away goes my sleep.
Anyway, my big question is about calcium. I’m 43, have breast fed 4 babies for 2 years each. If I leave off dairy ( I noticed that my nose gets partially blocked if I consume a lot), how can I get the calcium I need? At this age, my needs are greater than before.
Thanks,
Fatima
Cristina says
Hi Fatima! Big hugs!!! Leafy greens have a ton of calcium and resistance training is great for bone health!
Maria says
Hello! I just bought your new book and am very impressed with it. I’m 53 and have been dealing with skin and scalp issues (seborrheic dermatitis – my scalp is always itching and flaking!) my whole life. I also have asthma, was diagnosed with endometriosis stage four at age 41. I really want to get healthy and lose weight. I am hoping your book and recipes can help me heal. Thank you so much for writing your book. By the way, your skin and hair look so healthy! What do you use to wash your face and for a moisturizer? Shampoo and conditioner? I’d love to know. Thank you!
Cristina says
Hi Maria, thank you, I hope it does help you too.
I use Beauty Counter Countertime on my face:https://www.beautycounter.com/products?search=countertime
I wash my hair with Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Soap and then put Morrocan oil on it. I also only wash it like 1x a week 🙂
Cynthia Shannon says
I’m a 1st generation Cuban-American who is bilingual too! I love your story! It is my story too except for the part about being tall. I’m only 5’2” tall. I have to ask tall people to get things for me off the top shelf in the grocery store ??. I am so excited to have learned about you! I too want to heal my body through food. I have fibromyalgia and hypothyroidism. I lived with a high level of stress for a long time, so I think I have stress hormones that need to be balanced and my thyroid working (I take levothroxine) with everything else to heal my body. I also suffered 2 bouts of C diff which is a really terrible intestinal infection that really harmed my gut and depleted my microbiome in my gut. The only way to heal that is with probiotics and an anti inflammatory diet over an agonizingly long period of time. Your gut microbiome is so important! It does so many things for you. 20% of your serotonin is made in your gut! The gut is often referred to as the 2nd brain too. I’m missing a lot of memory retention since the C diff infections. I’m also super fatigued and weak. We need our gut bacteria to absorb the nutrients from our food. I will most definitely purchase your book and follow you on Social Media!
Steve says
Hey Christina. Thx. Read your SIBO recovery story. U r so believable. I’m going to do what you say. Anti microbials. Paleo low carb.
Oregano and caprrylic acid
Going to health store tomorrow
SIBO &painful bloating & fatigue. Not worth yummy carbs
Cristina says
Hi Steve! I highly recommend you work with a practitioner on this. There are a lot of variables with SIBO and you might need help troubleshooting.
Sherri says
I am looking forward to improving my cooking skills and adding some delicious recipes to my files! I have been doing Keto for the past year and need to get my whole family on board!
Lana Shartle says
Hi Christina. I got your book a little over a year ago and I really like it! I am looking forward to your new cook book.
Thanks!
Cristina says
Thank you so much Lana!
Lorraine Ayre says
Thanks for so many wonderful recipes! Clearly a labor of love and self-care.
Wondering if somethings wrong with my browser or what, though, as I can’t get the recipe filter at the top to work. When I try to check any box, the whole thing goes highlight, but boxes won’t check.
Thanks again for all the great recipes!
Cristina says
Hmm weird, it’s doing the highlight thing for me, but still lets me check the boxes. I use Google Chrome. What are you on?
Carmen Miller says
Love your recipes and can’t wait to try them all (I’m a new subscriber). As for the 10 fun facts about you, I seriously think you should add “beautiful” to the list!
Thank you for all the information you provide us.
Cristina says
Thank you Carmen!
Juli says
Hmmm I sent you a msg in the contact section. Shoot now I hope I did it right. Did you get it? It’s about being an athlete and juggling food with workouts.
Cristina says
I answered your question during the live 🙂 Eat an extra snack around workout. Something starchy beforehand like sweet potato toast and then something with protein after like compliant beef jerky and nuts. This in addition to regular meals.
Jennifer Corgan says
Just wondering what school or institution you went through to get certification to be nutritional therapy practitioner. Interested in pursuing this myself. Any help appreciated. Ty
Cristina says
I wrote a blog post about it: https://thecastawaykitchen.com/2019/07/what-is-a-nutritional-therapy-practitioner/
Lisa Hailey says
I purchased the cookbook and am exited to try something soon! I saw a video somewhere (can’t fine it now) where you offered the opp to take a free mini assessment. Can you tell me where to get that? Thanks!
Cristina says
Email your order confirmation or proof of purchase to madewholecookbook@gmail.com and you’ll get it
Audrey says
What cookware do you recommend?
Cristina says
Lodge Castiron
Heidi Rose Tyson says
Cristina, I want to thank you for being so real with me over the phone and for creating this blog so that I might have better and more abundant resources while I change my life for the better.
I am going to try your liver pate today. I’ll let you know what I think!
Cristina says
Heidi- its my absolute pleasure
Martha Lay says
Hello,
I just found you through Ali Miller RD podcast and love what you are about. Where did you get you nutritional education from? I’ve been considering going back to school. Thank you
Cristina says
The Nutritional Therapy Association, I have a blog post about it here >> https://thecastawaykitchen.com/2019/07/what-is-a-nutritional-therapy-practitioner/
Emely Ruiz says
I JUST WANTED TO SAY: “I LOVE HOW U SAY, I’M LOUD AND I ALWAYS TALK W MY HANDS”. LATINA AL FIN!!! so happi you found your happiness@!!!! THIS WEBSITE IS AWESOMEE!!!
Cristina says
Graciiaaaasss
Judy Subora says
How do you order from biotics research supplements if you do not have a provider that is in the program.
Thank you so much for your blog and books.. I have them both.
You are a God send to me, just diagnosed a couple of weeks ago with RA with skin manifestations.
Judy Subora
Cristina says
You can get biotics supplement via fullscript, use my link on my home page that says supplements to make an account.
Delma Lopez Miller says
I was diagnosed with HS last year….I’ve been tweaking my eating but it’s been a struggle…my HS is not as bad as others I’ve read about but I worry about it getting worse…I’m a 54 old woman, retired police officer who has issues with hormones due to a hysterectomy and over weight….I want to do the right thing and get a hold of this!!! I do need help…my dermatologist said I needed to go full on paleo n lose weight….thank you for sharing your experiences.
Cristina says
Hugs Delma! You can do it!
Kristy Cranford says
Hi there, Cristina! My name is Kristy and I came across your website today while doing more research on AIP and Whole 30. I did 30 days of strict AIP and started adding foods back in, although not in the recommended way. About to restart from day 1 and that’s when I saw your keto AIP reset.
On this journey for the long haul, I’m also starting functional nutrition school with Andrea Nakayama in July. I really enjoyed reading your story and all the feats you’ve overcome.
Cristina says
Hi Kristy! Don’t beat yourself up, it happens. I think you will learn a lot in your nutrition program and it will be a huge tool of healing for you. Best of luck!
Kristiina Stoddard says
Love you already- your down to earth and honesty, fun facts and thank you for your purpose and help.
Cristina says
awwww thanks so much Kristina!!
Karen Davis says
I just bought your book “Made Whole, Made Simple” and I can’t put it down. I can relate. Thank you for writing this and for your outlook on eating for health. Of all the books in Barnes & Noble, I chose yours! I am a 69 year old full time nurse and wildfire survivor (Paradise Camp Fire 18 months ago) and I want to live a healthy life.
Cristina says
Oh Karen! Thank you so much for picking my book of all the books on the shelf, it means a lot to me. I truly hope the information and recipes are a part of a healthy thriving life for you! Welcome to The Castaway family <3
Karen Davis says
Thank you Cristina. I just got your 1st book this week and I love it too. I’m reading both books at the same time. Lol! Been replacing kitchen items and food items to get my kitchen set up for healthy cooking.
Cristina says
<3 <3 <3
Darin says
Good for you. You didn’t mention that your also beautiful
Cristina says
thank you
Marianne Corman says
Hi Christina…what is the purpose of the coconut aminos??
Cristina says
coconut aminos are great for a soy sauce replacement but also to add color and sweetness to meals
AH says
I am two inches shorter than you, yet have the same size feet! Big feet are the worst for finding cute shoes! xoxo
Cristina says
Nordstrom Rack! They go up to size 13 in women.
Julie says
Thank you for the ebook. It was fun to look through it this morning. Your stir fryer meatballs are in my air fryer as we speak and if they taste half as good as they smell my breakfast is going to be amazing.
Cristina says
wonderful
Steve Afflixio,CEC,AAC says
I am the Food Fanatics chef for the South Florida market. Would love to chat with you and let you see what our team might be able to do to help your team.
Cell is:813-781-3920
“I talk so much with my hands I’ve been told I speak multiple languages”
margaret shamblin says
You had me at 5’9″ and size 11 feet! I am 5’10” with size 11 feet. I have discovered through trying KETO that too much cheese had adverse effects on me. I’m not sure if I have a dairy intolerance or allergy, but I have been looking for a way to do keto, but with less dairy. I am eager to read about what you have to say. Thank you!
Cristina says
Welcome Margaret!!
Teresa Hambrick says
I am so happy to have found you, in your book Made Whole, your dedication page jumped out and wrapped arms around me saying follow us we have a solution.
Cristina says
Big Hug Teresa!
Robert Ely says
I am writing a book about Beating Type 2 Diabetes- would like to share some of your thoughts and images and link the ebook version to your site. I do not have a publisher yet- but the message and my personal results are significant enough that I may self publish to get the word out faster. thanks for your time- Love the recipes and the lucid thought about food. Rob
Bob Urian says
Christina: I am on my second week of AIP. It’s not difficult if you do all of the food in advance, then vacuum seal on freeze the extra.
Recipes are great and easy to follow.
Best of all, my arthritic body is loving it. Great reduction so far in joint discomfort.
You were correct. Starting with AIP is step #1.
Cristina says
Hi Bob! I am sooo happy to hear that! Since your email, I have wondered how you have been. Thrilled to get this update! Thank you!
Susan Hollister says
Hi Cristina,
Do you council others for their diet? If so, what are your prices?
Thanks so much!
Susan
Cristina says
Hi Susan, I no longer take clients on my own, I work for a functional medicine doctor and do all my nutrition coaching via her practice. Dr. Becky Campbell.