Michael Pollan, author of The Omnivore's Dilemma (our "textbook" for the EatGreen Evolution course), took on the topic of cooking in his 2013 book Cooked: A Natural History of Transformation. This book takes a look at the ways in which we've lost touch with the ancient art of cooking and transforming our own food. And, in modern day fashion, that book has become a Netflix docu-series titled Cooked, exploring the topic of cooking, our contemporary obsession with watching others cook, and our society's ongoing issues around food — including everyone's growing paranoia about gluten.

Pollan discusses our "national eating disorder" in The Omnivore's Dilemma and has previously made it known that he finds the gluten-free craze an example of "social contagion". And sadly, as a certified nutritionist, I both agree and disagree with this statement.  I have found that many people avoid gluten not having any scientific or metabolic backing to their decision - they merely do so because it it "in fashion". However, those that should avoid it (anyone with an autoimmune condition or diagnosed gluten allergy/celiac disease), do not do so and do not even consider the idea.

Pollan also added, "There are people who feel better when they get off gluten, which may not have anything to do with the gluten. It may have to do with the fact that maybe they’re getting off carbs." And this can be very true and often, the gluten that we are eating, is largely found in overly-processed and under-nutritious foods.

So, do you know what foods you should be eating or what foods you should be avoiding? Do you know how to shop, cook and enjoy such foods? Have you lost (or never found) your love and appreciation of the art of cooking? If you are unsure about any of the above and you would like to know for sure what your body and mind needs to work its best, then you are in luck! The Institute is launching a Workshop Series: The Art & Love of Cooking.  Workshop details will be announced in the coming weeks. If you are not already on our email list, please signup today.  We do not share your information or fill up your inbox (really, we don't!).

Join us for a fun and fact-filled tour of the legendary Angelic Organics Farm this Sunday, October 9th from 12-2pm. Angelic Organics is of a working biodynamic organic farm founded by Farmer John Peterson. It is located just about 2 hours northwest of Chicago, outside of Rockford, Illinois, in Caledonia. It's an amazing place doing wonderful things to build and promote the local and sustainable food movement. The farm and its associated educational organization is doing some spectacular work in promoting sustainable agriculture and we are very lucky to have this opportunity and therefore, anyone who eats(!) should visit this farm!

Angelic Organics is a Community Supported Agriculture farm, growing vegetables and herbs for Chicago-area households since 1991. The tour will be from 12pm – 2pm on Sunday October 9th and will cost $15. This is a really awesome opportunity to get an up close and personal look at the workings of a local, family-owned, community-driven farm. Dress for the weather and prepare to be outside!

Transportation to the farm — This is a "get-there-on-your-own" field trip, but we can certainly coordinate transportation for anyone interested.

Location: 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia, Illinois / (815) 389-8455

Tour Time: 12pm - 2pm (Please arrive a few minutes early)

Cost: There is a fee of $15 for the 2-hour tour

Here's a handout of interest - What to Ask a Farmer

If interested in attending, please contact Vicki no later than Saturday, October 8th, by 8pm. or even better, sign up below! Children are welcome to attend, but, please keep in mind that this is a working farm and those older than 12 years are encouraged.