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Food Saved Me: My Journey of Finding Health and Hope through the Power of Food
• National Bestseller •
You can live a full, happy, and healthy life without ever feeling excluded or deprived.
When doctors told Danielle Walker that food didn’t cause her autoimmune disease and couldn’t help control it, she set out to prove them wrong.
Diagnosed with an extreme form of ulcerative colitis at 22, Danielle was terrified she’d never be able to eat all the wonderful, great-tasting foods she loved growing up or host warm, welcoming gatherings with family and friends. So when the medicine she was prescribed became almost as debilitating as the disease itself, Danielle took matters into her own hands, turned her kitchen into a laboratory, and set to work creating gut-healthy versions of the foods she thought she’d never be able to enjoy again. Three New York Times bestselling cookbooks later, Danielle has become a beacon of hope for millions around the world suffering from autoimmune diseases, food allergies, and chronic ailments.
Now for the first time, with stunning transparency about the personal toll her illness took on her physically, emotionally, and spiritually, Danielle reflects on everything she’s learned during her decade-long journey toward healing―including the connection between gut health and overall well-being, the development of her favorite recipes, and the keys for not simply surviving her autoimmune disease but thriving despite it. Through her resilience, Danielle tells a story that provides hope ―hope that despite your ailments or hardships, you can live a full, happy, and healthy life without ever feeling excluded or deprived.
Food saved Danielle Walker. And it can save you, too.
Includes six fan-favorite recipes and the stories behind them!
You can live a full, happy, and healthy life without ever feeling excluded or deprived.
When doctors told Danielle Walker that food didn’t cause her autoimmune disease and couldn’t help control it, she set out to prove them wrong.
Diagnosed with an extreme form of ulcerative colitis at 22, Danielle was terrified she’d never be able to eat all the wonderful, great-tasting foods she loved growing up or host warm, welcoming gatherings with family and friends. So when the medicine she was prescribed became almost as debilitating as the disease itself, Danielle took matters into her own hands, turned her kitchen into a laboratory, and set to work creating gut-healthy versions of the foods she thought she’d never be able to enjoy again. Three New York Times bestselling cookbooks later, Danielle has become a beacon of hope for millions around the world suffering from autoimmune diseases, food allergies, and chronic ailments.
Now for the first time, with stunning transparency about the personal toll her illness took on her physically, emotionally, and spiritually, Danielle reflects on everything she’s learned during her decade-long journey toward healing―including the connection between gut health and overall well-being, the development of her favorite recipes, and the keys for not simply surviving her autoimmune disease but thriving despite it. Through her resilience, Danielle tells a story that provides hope ―hope that despite your ailments or hardships, you can live a full, happy, and healthy life without ever feeling excluded or deprived.
Food saved Danielle Walker. And it can save you, too.
Includes six fan-favorite recipes and the stories behind them!
336 pages, Hardcover
Published September 14, 2021
200 people are currently reading
2148 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 507 reviews
September 24, 2021
I discovered Danielle's first cookbook, Against All Grain, when I was first diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis in 2015. After my initial diagnosis, I had to wait four months to see a specialist, and in those four months, I did my own research about how to combat my illness on my own. In my research, I discovered that diet was often used with promising results to battle the pain, stiffness, GI issues (and many other symptoms) that come with AS. I ran across Danielle's website in my research, and though I often had to tailor her recipes to meet my specific dietary needs, so much of the work had already been done for me.
I have all of Danielle's cookbooks, and I use them often, especially when in a flare-up. I knew I'd enjoy her memoir, and even though I was familiar with her story of living with UC, I was not prepared for how deeply her memoir would resonate with me. Living without real answers for such a long time, not knowing that diet could help, learning to fuse together diet and Western medicine as well as combating stress and learning how to rest—all the pieces she had to put together over the years mirror my own journey. I felt really alone for a long time. Danielle shares so intimately how her disease has affected her parenting, her work, her relationships, her marriage, and I get all of that so much. While my disease isn't as life-threatening as Danielle's, it is chronically painful and inhibits normal life much of the time. I will always have it. BUT—like Danielle, I can learn to live with it and be thankful for the days between flare-ups.
Danielle did a great job of story-telling in her book. Just because someone has a story doesn't mean they're well-equipped to tell it! She kept me reading (or listening—on Audible!), and I lost count of how many times I teared up because her experience was just SO relatable.
In my experience, we want to find a "reason" for our diseases (or any sufferings really), in order to be able to persevere through them with purpose. I really understand Danielle's searching for how God answered her prayers (or if He had at all) when it wasn't in the way she wanted. I hope she continues to find meaning in God's ability to redeem our sufferings and use them for good in her own life and that of those who use her methods and recipes as well. While many of her readers will not be people of the Christian faith, I still found the theological questions to be good ones—and ones I've asked many times over the past 11 years of illness. We may not see the purpose or reason in this life. We might not know the impact of our perseverance until we're with God in heaven and we can see clearly. While food, medicine, rest, and relinquishing stress are super important pieces of the autoimmune puzzle, I have found faith in Christ to be the most sustaining part of it all. I could not live with chronic pain without my hope in the resurrection. One day, I'll have a new body free from disease, and I will be full of joy with God forever. But until then...I'll be thankful for the pieces of grace that God has brought to my life through food, medicine, and rest.
I really loved reading Danielle's book, and I will recommend it to people who are struggling with chronic illnesses like hers and mine. It helps to know your experience has been lived similarly by others. You're not crazy. Autoimmune disease is difficult to diagnose and difficult to treat. You will likely feel like a hypochondriac until you get a firm diagnosis (which can take years), and even then, you'll struggle to find the right treatment and balance of options for your specific body. Danielle makes that perfectly clear in her memoir. Definitely put this one on your to-read list, and if you do nothing else, make the chocolate cream pie on page 274 in her first cookbook, Against All Grain. You're welcome. :)
I have all of Danielle's cookbooks, and I use them often, especially when in a flare-up. I knew I'd enjoy her memoir, and even though I was familiar with her story of living with UC, I was not prepared for how deeply her memoir would resonate with me. Living without real answers for such a long time, not knowing that diet could help, learning to fuse together diet and Western medicine as well as combating stress and learning how to rest—all the pieces she had to put together over the years mirror my own journey. I felt really alone for a long time. Danielle shares so intimately how her disease has affected her parenting, her work, her relationships, her marriage, and I get all of that so much. While my disease isn't as life-threatening as Danielle's, it is chronically painful and inhibits normal life much of the time. I will always have it. BUT—like Danielle, I can learn to live with it and be thankful for the days between flare-ups.
Danielle did a great job of story-telling in her book. Just because someone has a story doesn't mean they're well-equipped to tell it! She kept me reading (or listening—on Audible!), and I lost count of how many times I teared up because her experience was just SO relatable.
In my experience, we want to find a "reason" for our diseases (or any sufferings really), in order to be able to persevere through them with purpose. I really understand Danielle's searching for how God answered her prayers (or if He had at all) when it wasn't in the way she wanted. I hope she continues to find meaning in God's ability to redeem our sufferings and use them for good in her own life and that of those who use her methods and recipes as well. While many of her readers will not be people of the Christian faith, I still found the theological questions to be good ones—and ones I've asked many times over the past 11 years of illness. We may not see the purpose or reason in this life. We might not know the impact of our perseverance until we're with God in heaven and we can see clearly. While food, medicine, rest, and relinquishing stress are super important pieces of the autoimmune puzzle, I have found faith in Christ to be the most sustaining part of it all. I could not live with chronic pain without my hope in the resurrection. One day, I'll have a new body free from disease, and I will be full of joy with God forever. But until then...I'll be thankful for the pieces of grace that God has brought to my life through food, medicine, and rest.
I really loved reading Danielle's book, and I will recommend it to people who are struggling with chronic illnesses like hers and mine. It helps to know your experience has been lived similarly by others. You're not crazy. Autoimmune disease is difficult to diagnose and difficult to treat. You will likely feel like a hypochondriac until you get a firm diagnosis (which can take years), and even then, you'll struggle to find the right treatment and balance of options for your specific body. Danielle makes that perfectly clear in her memoir. Definitely put this one on your to-read list, and if you do nothing else, make the chocolate cream pie on page 274 in her first cookbook, Against All Grain. You're welcome. :)
September 21, 2021
I don’t usually read memoirs, they just aren’t my preferred genre. I read this one because stumbling upon Danielle’s blog years ago was one of the first catalysts for me to think about how food/nutrition could influence chronic health issues experienced by members of my family. I have learned much from her cookbooks. My favorite part of the book is the sections written by her husband, sharing the caregiver’s experience. I also listened to the audiobook, which was great, Danielle reads it herself, and you do feel like a friend is in your living room telling her story.
October 11, 2021
From a reader’s standpoint:
I just loved the flow of this book. It’s not your typical autobiography material. While some of it is just being told back to you as it happened to her, other parts are written in dialogue fashion which made for a very interesting and engaging and well-written read!
From a personal standpoint:
When I saw that this book was on Netgalley, I jumped at the chance to read it because after I realized that eating gluten was what was making me sick, I quickly got overwhelmed with the thought of, “What do I eat?!” Danielle’s blog was the very first one I found that brought me out of that head spin and helped me to realize it was totally possible.
I was fighting tears almost the entire time I was reading this book from the fact that she knows what it’s like to not be listened to or understood concerning her health, she and I are close in age and were sick about the same time, and I followed her and was “there” through the difficult times she talked about in her book and just felt the pain of those for her all over again…
The last thing I want to mention, is to PLEASE read the afterward by her husband. Best. Afterward. Ever!
*I was provided a copy by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I just loved the flow of this book. It’s not your typical autobiography material. While some of it is just being told back to you as it happened to her, other parts are written in dialogue fashion which made for a very interesting and engaging and well-written read!
From a personal standpoint:
When I saw that this book was on Netgalley, I jumped at the chance to read it because after I realized that eating gluten was what was making me sick, I quickly got overwhelmed with the thought of, “What do I eat?!” Danielle’s blog was the very first one I found that brought me out of that head spin and helped me to realize it was totally possible.
I was fighting tears almost the entire time I was reading this book from the fact that she knows what it’s like to not be listened to or understood concerning her health, she and I are close in age and were sick about the same time, and I followed her and was “there” through the difficult times she talked about in her book and just felt the pain of those for her all over again…
The last thing I want to mention, is to PLEASE read the afterward by her husband. Best. Afterward. Ever!
*I was provided a copy by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2023
Danielle Walker's story has always been close to my heart - her Meals Made Simple cookbook was one of the first gluten-free cookbooks that my Mom gave me in 2015 when I decided to live entirely gluten-free. I cried through half of this memoir because Danielle's story is so relatable to my own health journey: the confusion, the ups and downs, the grief of not being "normal," and the struggles to find your own path when conventional medicine doesn't fix everything. I know that she has helped so many people find healing with her cookbooks, and I count myself as one of them. This memoir is a powerful message to anyone struggling with chronic illness that you are not alone, that life is not going to be perfect, but there can be relief in taking control of your own health journey and nourishing yourself with healthy foods.
August 27, 2021
I was so excited to receive an ARC of “Food Saved Me.” I have been of a fan of Danielle Walker for 5+ years. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease and I was determined not to go on thyroid medication. I went to a naturopath and was told to cut gluten and dairy out of my diet, along with a few other foods. I was overwhelmed trying to figure out how to begin and it just so happened I came across Danielle’s first two cook books when I was in Costco that very same day. Her cook books and blog have been instrumental in my health journey. Though, I am not grain free, her recipes are far better and healthier than gluten-free recipes I have encountered.
This memoir was an inspiring read. Danielle and her family have been through so much, yet are still positive, happy and hopeful. It was very interesting to read about how she discovered the paleo diet and how she decided to begin developing her own recipes. She has obviously found her calling! I would recommend this book to not only people suffering from autoimmune diseases, but anyone who is looking to lead a healthier life or are curious about how the foods they eat can affect their lives.
This memoir was an inspiring read. Danielle and her family have been through so much, yet are still positive, happy and hopeful. It was very interesting to read about how she discovered the paleo diet and how she decided to begin developing her own recipes. She has obviously found her calling! I would recommend this book to not only people suffering from autoimmune diseases, but anyone who is looking to lead a healthier life or are curious about how the foods they eat can affect their lives.
May 20, 2025
This book came highly recommended and I can see why. An easy to read memoir that I would also recommend for those learning to navigate autoimmune disease or how to support someone navigating one.
August 11, 2022
I resonated deeply with this memoir. Danielle’s health struggles are so similar to my own, particularly the hospital stays where “cures” only spiral my misunderstood (and for a long time, misdiagnosed) medical issues, where doctors just want to shove prescription pills down your throat regardless of the side effects, where the naturopathic aids are so overwhelming, expensive, and numerous that it is hard to decipher which, if any, are helping, the deep guilt at lying in bed instead of taking care of your children, and so much more. I have read a few memoirs recently and this one was by far the best, perhaps because it was a topic that hit so very close to home for me. I have several of her cookbooks and preordered her latest and it was eye opening to see how she got her start and that she managed to create new recipes and craft cookbooks while weaving in and out of flares. I’m even more impressed with her work than I already was! A must read for anyone suffering from chronic illness or anyone who loves someone with chronic illness.
January 6, 2022
What a beautiful story by a beautiful soul. I've followed Danielle on Instagram for a few years now (I think I initially found her through Whole 30/Whole 30 recipes as I've found many of my favorite food bloggers), and while she's been quite candid about her journey with UC (ulcerative colitis), she really gets into the details here. After being diagnosed in her early 20s with an extreme form of UC, and having heard of specialty diets that had helped some people alleviate symptoms, Danielle removed grains/gluten/dairy and a few other sneaky culprits from her diet to see how her body would react and if it would have an impact on her UC symptoms. She quickly learned that most processed food would not work for her, and if she wanted to eat good/comfort/everyday foods we all eat and take for granted daily, she was going to have to develop those recipes herself since no one else was really doing it at the time. And just like that, Against All Grain was born.
Her memoir is a mix of her journey of UC, and her journey of making healthy, delicious, recipes - including a successful blog and 4 cookbooks. She talks about her successes and failures (the first time she tired to make 'mashed' cauliflower and it came out a watery soup) - but the grace, love, and realness she personifies on social media shines in this book.
Through years of trial, journaling, and eating - she learned that food had the power to either alleviate or aggravate her UC symptoms. It wasn't a magic cure all - she would never 'cure' her UC - but by changing the way she ate, it would have a positive impact on her health. (And I 100% agree. I don't have an auto immune disease, but after multiple rounds of Whole30, I feel infinitely better when I limit my dairy and gluten).
A must read for anyone with an illness, or their caretaker. Her husband Ryan's note at the end especially. A good memoir for all, but it made me love her even more than I already did.
I also highly recommend her cookbooks. My personal favorite is Celebrations. It's the cookbook I use the most - out of all cookbooks I own. Every year, I make her cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving/Christmas, her veggie bundles are one of my husband's favorites, and her chocolate pecan tart was like heaven in my mouth.
Her memoir is a mix of her journey of UC, and her journey of making healthy, delicious, recipes - including a successful blog and 4 cookbooks. She talks about her successes and failures (the first time she tired to make 'mashed' cauliflower and it came out a watery soup) - but the grace, love, and realness she personifies on social media shines in this book.
Through years of trial, journaling, and eating - she learned that food had the power to either alleviate or aggravate her UC symptoms. It wasn't a magic cure all - she would never 'cure' her UC - but by changing the way she ate, it would have a positive impact on her health. (And I 100% agree. I don't have an auto immune disease, but after multiple rounds of Whole30, I feel infinitely better when I limit my dairy and gluten).
A must read for anyone with an illness, or their caretaker. Her husband Ryan's note at the end especially. A good memoir for all, but it made me love her even more than I already did.
I also highly recommend her cookbooks. My personal favorite is Celebrations. It's the cookbook I use the most - out of all cookbooks I own. Every year, I make her cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving/Christmas, her veggie bundles are one of my husband's favorites, and her chocolate pecan tart was like heaven in my mouth.
December 24, 2021
This wasn't a spiritual book, or a romance. But both of those
elements were there and what affected me the most about this book.
I was expecting an explanation of her food theories and journey. And I got that. But what I also saw was a warrior. I saw a woman with an illness who was brave enough to figure out what worked for her health, and then be honest and vulnerable about her journey. She has helped so many people with her recipes and research, yet what you see in these pages is a woman humble enough to say that it was all God's doing.
The other thing I saw was a husband who supported her through absolutely everything. He was there in her highs and lows. He helped taste recipes, set up her blog, stayed with her at the hospital in Uganda, and took care of her and the kids when Danielle couldn't get out of bed. My friends, this man is gold. And it's a hopefilled thing for me to see that husbands and selfless men like this do exist. (And his note in the end of the book, wow. So appreciated.)
I don't struggle with her exact health conditions, and I've yet to see if her eating methods could benefit me. But this was inspiring and hopeful all the same.
"...I can’t help but feel like he’s trying to show me that he’s good and he feels my pain. Even though he’s not healing me yet. Or at least not in the way I expect and hope for. I know he’s going to use all of this somehow."
"Throughout my entire UC journey, this man, my high school sweetheart, had been right by my side. He fought for me when I couldn’t fight for myself. He never made me feel as though I were a burden. He carried the entire weight and responsibility of our home, our kids, and my business. He also managed my care in the hospital when I was incapable of caring for myself."
"Living with an incurable disease isn’t for the faint of heart. It takes passionate courage and tenacity, and we fought every day to let our hardships make us stronger and not tear us apart."
elements were there and what affected me the most about this book.
I was expecting an explanation of her food theories and journey. And I got that. But what I also saw was a warrior. I saw a woman with an illness who was brave enough to figure out what worked for her health, and then be honest and vulnerable about her journey. She has helped so many people with her recipes and research, yet what you see in these pages is a woman humble enough to say that it was all God's doing.
The other thing I saw was a husband who supported her through absolutely everything. He was there in her highs and lows. He helped taste recipes, set up her blog, stayed with her at the hospital in Uganda, and took care of her and the kids when Danielle couldn't get out of bed. My friends, this man is gold. And it's a hopefilled thing for me to see that husbands and selfless men like this do exist. (And his note in the end of the book, wow. So appreciated.)
I don't struggle with her exact health conditions, and I've yet to see if her eating methods could benefit me. But this was inspiring and hopeful all the same.
"...I can’t help but feel like he’s trying to show me that he’s good and he feels my pain. Even though he’s not healing me yet. Or at least not in the way I expect and hope for. I know he’s going to use all of this somehow."
"Throughout my entire UC journey, this man, my high school sweetheart, had been right by my side. He fought for me when I couldn’t fight for myself. He never made me feel as though I were a burden. He carried the entire weight and responsibility of our home, our kids, and my business. He also managed my care in the hospital when I was incapable of caring for myself."
"Living with an incurable disease isn’t for the faint of heart. It takes passionate courage and tenacity, and we fought every day to let our hardships make us stronger and not tear us apart."
August 14, 2021
I received this book as an advance digital temporary copy for an early read before the actual release for my review.
As an avid follower for at least 5 years and someone who suffers from autoimmune issues; I was excited to be reading this book. However the authors desire to not be on medication unless absolutely necessary is discouraging. Many of us need to be on medicine and can't get off of it. While food can help you become healthier and maintain your disease better it isn't always something you can ditch.
Such with my issues. I will be on medication for life but the healthier diet allows me to keep my inflammatory numbers way down vs if I continued to follow the traditional American diet.
While I appreciated the hardships and struggles she encountered and how challenging that it is for us to work with MD's not all of us can afford functional medical providers to find alternative methods of care and instead are stuck advocating for ourselves with subpar MD's.
Just remember that you need to advocate for yourself and medication isn't a cure all and neither is food in lieu of medication.
As an avid follower for at least 5 years and someone who suffers from autoimmune issues; I was excited to be reading this book. However the authors desire to not be on medication unless absolutely necessary is discouraging. Many of us need to be on medicine and can't get off of it. While food can help you become healthier and maintain your disease better it isn't always something you can ditch.
Such with my issues. I will be on medication for life but the healthier diet allows me to keep my inflammatory numbers way down vs if I continued to follow the traditional American diet.
While I appreciated the hardships and struggles she encountered and how challenging that it is for us to work with MD's not all of us can afford functional medical providers to find alternative methods of care and instead are stuck advocating for ourselves with subpar MD's.
Just remember that you need to advocate for yourself and medication isn't a cure all and neither is food in lieu of medication.
Read
June 18, 2022If you or someone you love has an autoimmune disease, you will likely find this book to be extremely helpful. I’ve followed Danielle on social media for years and have all her cookbooks. Initially I tried her recipes in a vague attempt to eat healthier, but since being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease myself (psoriatic arthritis) and having my doctor recommend an anti inflammatory diet, I have a new appreciation for her work.
This book details her excruciating journey with ulcerative colitis. I had no idea how serious this disease can be. She chronicles her many hospital stays and flares of the disease; she has come close to dying from her disorder many times. She makes a compelling case for the power of food to heal our bodies. She doesn’t eschew conventional medicine, but she clearly is alive and thriving today because of how she eats.
I’ve experienced this myself! I take my biologics and they definitely help, but when I follow an anti inflammatory diet, I feel significantly better. When I slip up, I can tell immediately. It’s certainly not easy but the efforts are worth it. I highly recommend her cookbooks as well!
This book details her excruciating journey with ulcerative colitis. I had no idea how serious this disease can be. She chronicles her many hospital stays and flares of the disease; she has come close to dying from her disorder many times. She makes a compelling case for the power of food to heal our bodies. She doesn’t eschew conventional medicine, but she clearly is alive and thriving today because of how she eats.
I’ve experienced this myself! I take my biologics and they definitely help, but when I follow an anti inflammatory diet, I feel significantly better. When I slip up, I can tell immediately. It’s certainly not easy but the efforts are worth it. I highly recommend her cookbooks as well!
October 8, 2025
I was able to “read” this book via the audiobook version prior to release at part of the book launch team. This book did not disappoint. I finished it within 48 hours! The audiobook features the author’s voice which was captivating. I could hear the emotion in her voice as she recounted her health and food journey. Danielle’s vulnerability and raw honesty touched my heart. There were so many moments that brought tears to my eyes. But woven throughout the book was God’s Providence. It’s amazing to see how God has worked in and through Danielle and Ryan to show us true faith and a wonderful example of how-to walk-through trials. God has worked in and through Danielle and Ryan to show us true faith, an incredible love story, and what a marriage should be: for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health. When this book releases, go read it!
December 5, 2024
Danielle is so honest and real about her journey. She reminds me - there are many of us who thank the Lord for His food. Without Gods food, real and clean, I’m not sure where I would be! So grateful for her honesty. Thank you, Danielle — If God didn’t make it, then I can’t eat it… For some, food is truly our medicine.
April 5, 2023
I think anyone on a health journey can relate to this book. She had quite a journey of finding the balance of health in the holistic model and also using medical model while battling a severe autoimmune disease. I work in health care so her experience finding the barriers/limitations of the medical model, I found particularly interesting. I am a fan of all her cookbooks so it was nice to learn the backstory of what started it all.
January 17, 2022
Heartfelt and honest story of Danielle’s battle with autoimmune disease. I have always loved her recipes from Instagram and now I know her story. ❤️
August 31, 2021
Have you ever found a book or someone's story that you relate with SO MUCH, that you feel just GETS YOU so well that you read it with tears welled up in your eyes and a gulp in your throat? This is how I started reading just even the "A Note From Me To You" section intro of the book. I have been following Danielle Walker since her first cookbook after a friend introduced me to a few of her recipes. I have fluctuated with food allergies and sensitivities for a few years now, a gall-bladder removal, histamine flare-ups and now working with a nutritionist who has detected some GUT floral imbalances in my system. I have gone gluten-free, dairy-free a few times within these years, but now I have permanently made the decision to change my eating habits for good. I KNOW these foods and recipes have healing powers and I plan to take control of what I CAN control by eating fresh and whole foods. I have all of Danielle's cookbooks, so I have absolutely NO excuse not to! She has everything from entrees to sweets, and everything in between. She's thought of it all so we can share in those delicious foods together, those of our childhood memories, just reimagined. I cannot rate this book high enough. I feel like she's my best friend -so humble, personable and relatable. You won't be disappointed.
April 16, 2022
“In the US alone, about 50 million people suffer from autoimmune diseases and another 32 million have food allergies, and this is the best we can do? This terrible food that sucks the joy out of us?”
I read this book in a day. Sure, I’m recovering from surgery and therefore can spend an entire 14 hours sobbing into the pages of memoir I didn’t expect to love. Unlike all the other people who read this book I did not know Danielle’s work or follow her recipes. I read it because of the title. Food Saved Me. I felt that way too.
First, some background. I have endometriosis. A chronic illness that causes inflammation throughout the body. It is often compared to an autoimmune disease because of the high levels of inflammation that endometriosis causes- although it is not an actual autoimmune disease. What endometriosis actually is no one really knows. There are theories. At this time there is no cure. Most women with higher stages of endo will have as many as 6 to 10 surgeries to try and deal with the progression of the disease. Within the endo community the biggest holistic advice we get is to start the endo diet. No red meat, dairy, gluten, soy, caffeine, sugar, or alcohol.
When I first started my healing journey I started with food. I knew nothing of what I was dealing with and could not go to the doctor because I lost my health insurance right after my first cyst rupture landed me in hospital. All I knew was that I needed help and fast. My job had written me up for too many absences. There was talk of loosing my job. In a desperate attempt to fix my own health I took everything in my kitchen that was a “bad” food and dumped it on the break room table. For the next month I started the candida diet (as I thought that was my issue) one of the strictest elimination diets.
As I read this memoir I felt seen in a way I hadn’t in years. Her book brought back all the memories of trying to cook “healthy” food and hating it. Of wanting to be a part of family celebrations or potlucks with friends and having nothing to contribute and nothing to eat. Of wanting to make grandma’s famous recipe only to find that you can’t eat any of the ingredients. Of eating all the right things and still have a flare up and then blaming yourself for eating that cookie at 1AM for the flare up. The excitement of making something you’ve always loved before your illness derailed your ability to eat that thing and finding a healthy recipe that is just as good, if not better, than the original.
This book is for the foodie with an illness. For the ones who don’t compromise on quality. Who bitch to anyone who will listen how much store bought gluten free bread not only tastes terrible but costs 3x the amount. It’s about the ups and the downs of trying to live healthy through nutrition. About the times when even food isn’t enough and treatment (often medication), with side effects as bad as or worse than the illness itself, are the cure. Danielle’s story is a story of faith, of advocacy, and resilience to live a life of pleasure in face of chronic illness.
I read this book in a day. Sure, I’m recovering from surgery and therefore can spend an entire 14 hours sobbing into the pages of memoir I didn’t expect to love. Unlike all the other people who read this book I did not know Danielle’s work or follow her recipes. I read it because of the title. Food Saved Me. I felt that way too.
First, some background. I have endometriosis. A chronic illness that causes inflammation throughout the body. It is often compared to an autoimmune disease because of the high levels of inflammation that endometriosis causes- although it is not an actual autoimmune disease. What endometriosis actually is no one really knows. There are theories. At this time there is no cure. Most women with higher stages of endo will have as many as 6 to 10 surgeries to try and deal with the progression of the disease. Within the endo community the biggest holistic advice we get is to start the endo diet. No red meat, dairy, gluten, soy, caffeine, sugar, or alcohol.
When I first started my healing journey I started with food. I knew nothing of what I was dealing with and could not go to the doctor because I lost my health insurance right after my first cyst rupture landed me in hospital. All I knew was that I needed help and fast. My job had written me up for too many absences. There was talk of loosing my job. In a desperate attempt to fix my own health I took everything in my kitchen that was a “bad” food and dumped it on the break room table. For the next month I started the candida diet (as I thought that was my issue) one of the strictest elimination diets.
As I read this memoir I felt seen in a way I hadn’t in years. Her book brought back all the memories of trying to cook “healthy” food and hating it. Of wanting to be a part of family celebrations or potlucks with friends and having nothing to contribute and nothing to eat. Of wanting to make grandma’s famous recipe only to find that you can’t eat any of the ingredients. Of eating all the right things and still have a flare up and then blaming yourself for eating that cookie at 1AM for the flare up. The excitement of making something you’ve always loved before your illness derailed your ability to eat that thing and finding a healthy recipe that is just as good, if not better, than the original.
This book is for the foodie with an illness. For the ones who don’t compromise on quality. Who bitch to anyone who will listen how much store bought gluten free bread not only tastes terrible but costs 3x the amount. It’s about the ups and the downs of trying to live healthy through nutrition. About the times when even food isn’t enough and treatment (often medication), with side effects as bad as or worse than the illness itself, are the cure. Danielle’s story is a story of faith, of advocacy, and resilience to live a life of pleasure in face of chronic illness.
February 25, 2022
I might be one of the few people to read this book who is not suffering from an autoimmune disease. I picked it up based on the title because I'm a huge proponent of eating real food. While I don't have any autoimmune diseases, I did find that when I changed my diet in 2010 I didn't get sick nearly as much as I did before. I cut out most processed foods, fast food, and any meat or eggs not local and regeneratively farmed/raised. I also learned to cook from scratch more and can my own produce - both of which used to be normal household skills, but not something most people do today. I was impressed with Danielle's story and her transparency about her struggles. I honestly can't imagine being that sick and also not always knowing what would trigger a flare up. I wasn't really familiar with her before this book, but I had heard of the cookbook Against All Grain. The book was definitely interesting and engaging even for someone without the types of health issues she has. It still blows my mind how many doctors tell people that illness/disease IN THEIR DIGESTIVE TRACT don't have anything to do with food - it shows how far removed we are from the importance of food/diet/health in our country. Overall, a well-written and inspirational book about the power of food.
Some quotes I liked:
"After consulting with two GI specialists and undergoing a battery of scans, biopsies, and blood tests in some of the most sophisticated medical facilities in the Bay Are, who would have guessed that the most thorough explanation of what I had and how I might have gotten it would come from a doctor in a dilapidated two-room hospital in the middle of a developing country." (p. 54-55)
"I couldn't quite make sense of what he was telling me. If it didn't matter what I ate, why had two different GI specialists specifically instructed me to eat totally different things? Dr. Stark had also said that the way food is grown and prepared can affect the body. Dr. Benedict just prescribed fish oil and potassium supplements - but weren't those two nutrients I could get by eating actual fish or bananas? Given that my particular disease involved the colon, where food is digested...weren't they all making the case that food does in fact play a role?" (p. 69)
Some quotes I liked:
"After consulting with two GI specialists and undergoing a battery of scans, biopsies, and blood tests in some of the most sophisticated medical facilities in the Bay Are, who would have guessed that the most thorough explanation of what I had and how I might have gotten it would come from a doctor in a dilapidated two-room hospital in the middle of a developing country." (p. 54-55)
"I couldn't quite make sense of what he was telling me. If it didn't matter what I ate, why had two different GI specialists specifically instructed me to eat totally different things? Dr. Stark had also said that the way food is grown and prepared can affect the body. Dr. Benedict just prescribed fish oil and potassium supplements - but weren't those two nutrients I could get by eating actual fish or bananas? Given that my particular disease involved the colon, where food is digested...weren't they all making the case that food does in fact play a role?" (p. 69)
April 21, 2022
POV: You're getting ready to marry your high school sweetheart and your body starts acting...different.
Nausea. Bloating. Pain. Blood.
Is it nerves? Stress? Will it pass? Or is this the beginning of a life-long diagnosis?
This memoir is a beautiful and heartbreaking perspective about living with chronic illness.
I started following Danielle Walker back in 2012 when she was just a blog I stumbled upon through Pinterest. I've followed her journey since. I celebrated every cookbook she published, cried through every flare up, and mourned the babies she's lost.
You guys. She has been through it. And she's been honest and raw and vulnerable. All while creating beautiful recipes that have helped her live the life she wants.
I cried a lot reading this. Mostly, because I remember her sharing the loss of their babies. I remember her posting her selfies from the hospital when she was having a life-threatneing flare-up. I remember her canceling her appearance at IF:gathering. And her love story in its raw and gritty state leaves my heary aching in the best way.
I journeyed through her experience through small squares on Instagram but this memoir takes it so much deeper.
When she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, Danielle refused to let it get the best of her. Even in her moments of defeat, she rose through the ashes and fought for her life...literally.
Her journey has given me so much empathy for those battling something I cannot understand. Her grit. Her grace. Her tenacity to fight for the life and body she was not given but fully desires is palpable on all these pages.
And I don't mean that in an image conscious sense. This isn't superficial in any way. I have always admired that about Danielle. Her view of food is about how it can heal and fuel and sustain our bodies. I will forever admire her work and I am so thankful for everything she's taught me over the years.
If you are battling chronic illness or know someone who is, give her a follow and buy this book. You won't regret it.
Nausea. Bloating. Pain. Blood.
Is it nerves? Stress? Will it pass? Or is this the beginning of a life-long diagnosis?
This memoir is a beautiful and heartbreaking perspective about living with chronic illness.
I started following Danielle Walker back in 2012 when she was just a blog I stumbled upon through Pinterest. I've followed her journey since. I celebrated every cookbook she published, cried through every flare up, and mourned the babies she's lost.
You guys. She has been through it. And she's been honest and raw and vulnerable. All while creating beautiful recipes that have helped her live the life she wants.
I cried a lot reading this. Mostly, because I remember her sharing the loss of their babies. I remember her posting her selfies from the hospital when she was having a life-threatneing flare-up. I remember her canceling her appearance at IF:gathering. And her love story in its raw and gritty state leaves my heary aching in the best way.
I journeyed through her experience through small squares on Instagram but this memoir takes it so much deeper.
When she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, Danielle refused to let it get the best of her. Even in her moments of defeat, she rose through the ashes and fought for her life...literally.
Her journey has given me so much empathy for those battling something I cannot understand. Her grit. Her grace. Her tenacity to fight for the life and body she was not given but fully desires is palpable on all these pages.
And I don't mean that in an image conscious sense. This isn't superficial in any way. I have always admired that about Danielle. Her view of food is about how it can heal and fuel and sustain our bodies. I will forever admire her work and I am so thankful for everything she's taught me over the years.
If you are battling chronic illness or know someone who is, give her a follow and buy this book. You won't regret it.
December 18, 2021
3.5*
I didn't know much about Danielle Walker besides the fact that she can't eat certain foods, and that she's good friends with Angie Smith, whom I've been following on social media for years.
It was interesting to learn Daniell's story. This is the first book of hers I've ever read, since I don't read cookbooks. The first few chapters of the book focus a lot on all the delicious foods she misses, it downright made me hungry for dishes I've never tasted.
The story starts from the early days when she became sick, her early years of marriage, her doctor's visits, her pregnancies, her early blog days and tours. You learn of how she come to create so many dishes based only on ingredients she could eat and her body would accept without making her sick. It's a serious, raw story and reality, but filled with hope and joy in her being able to rely on food to be a nourishment for her, and her family.
As I was reading, and me being a reader outside US, I could not help but think that this lifestyle would not be something feasible for people who don't have acces to the resources to provide the ingredients she bases her nutrition on. It's objectively an expensive, above the average income, lifestyle. I am sure I'd personally feel much better had I had the chance to eat like this, but not in this economy.
It was a good book, beyond the cooking and food aspect. Danielle sounds like and seems a grounded person, empathic, and a good person over-all. I enjoyed reading her memoir. It's a useful book for many who struggle and deal with what she's been dealing with for years, I am sure.
I received a free e-book of this book from the publisher via Net Galley. All thoughts expressed here are my own.
I didn't know much about Danielle Walker besides the fact that she can't eat certain foods, and that she's good friends with Angie Smith, whom I've been following on social media for years.
It was interesting to learn Daniell's story. This is the first book of hers I've ever read, since I don't read cookbooks. The first few chapters of the book focus a lot on all the delicious foods she misses, it downright made me hungry for dishes I've never tasted.
The story starts from the early days when she became sick, her early years of marriage, her doctor's visits, her pregnancies, her early blog days and tours. You learn of how she come to create so many dishes based only on ingredients she could eat and her body would accept without making her sick. It's a serious, raw story and reality, but filled with hope and joy in her being able to rely on food to be a nourishment for her, and her family.
As I was reading, and me being a reader outside US, I could not help but think that this lifestyle would not be something feasible for people who don't have acces to the resources to provide the ingredients she bases her nutrition on. It's objectively an expensive, above the average income, lifestyle. I am sure I'd personally feel much better had I had the chance to eat like this, but not in this economy.
It was a good book, beyond the cooking and food aspect. Danielle sounds like and seems a grounded person, empathic, and a good person over-all. I enjoyed reading her memoir. It's a useful book for many who struggle and deal with what she's been dealing with for years, I am sure.
I received a free e-book of this book from the publisher via Net Galley. All thoughts expressed here are my own.
September 24, 2021
Diagnosed with autoimmune ulcerative colitis at age 22, Walker could not have been prepared for the battle she would face to reclaim her health. Danielle's memoir is a fantastic reminder that food is medicine. While not everyone has to avoid the long list of trigger foods she does, especially grains and dairy, it's a good reminder that the right foods can be incredibly healing. Early on, she repeatedly heard the message from her doctors that changing her diet would not help her flare-ups with ulcerative colitis. With the long list of side-effects from the steroids and meds, she was determined to find another way to thrive and that meant figuring out which foods were triggering her, even if her doctors thought that food had nothing to do with it.
As someone with my own auto-immune issues, the best message here is that although someone with autoimmune disease may look normal and healthy on the outside, the inside tells a different story. Often, those with autoimmune disease combat vast and varied seemingly unrelated symptoms while often trying to conceal them so as not to burden others. Autoimmune issues are systemic and have whole body and mind implications. Walker's amazing humility reveals that, although food saved her, she often dealt with life-threatening and debilitating flare-ups that couldn't be quelled with food alone. Her memoir resonated with me deeply.
As someone with my own auto-immune issues, the best message here is that although someone with autoimmune disease may look normal and healthy on the outside, the inside tells a different story. Often, those with autoimmune disease combat vast and varied seemingly unrelated symptoms while often trying to conceal them so as not to burden others. Autoimmune issues are systemic and have whole body and mind implications. Walker's amazing humility reveals that, although food saved her, she often dealt with life-threatening and debilitating flare-ups that couldn't be quelled with food alone. Her memoir resonated with me deeply.
October 14, 2021
How do you properly review a book like this with words? I’m at a loss to convey how deeply this book resonated with my soul.
Danielle (whom I’ve followed on Instagram since my own health nightmares began in 2016) so eloquently put into words, not only the story of her own diagnosis and healing journey, but her vulnerability, challenges, worries, fears and determination and perseverance to fight through this battle for her family.
Her heart shines in this book! I cried many times nodding in agreement and understanding of the losses, the frustrations, and the constant need to hand the reigns over to God because we believe He is ultimately in control.
This book reiterated to me how very important a role food plays in so many of our lives. I have often felt it is unfair that so many people can eat what they want. I’ve let it defeat me on more than one occasion. This book was placed in my hands when I needed it most. It reminded me I am NOT alone in this fight for life for this body I have been given. And I am so grateful for her sharing her story… and that food really can be so healing.
Whether you have a health issue that requires a change in food or not…it’s a great read and a wonderful story of how adversity in life can grow us and change our trajectory in the most amazing ways.
Well done!!
Danielle (whom I’ve followed on Instagram since my own health nightmares began in 2016) so eloquently put into words, not only the story of her own diagnosis and healing journey, but her vulnerability, challenges, worries, fears and determination and perseverance to fight through this battle for her family.
Her heart shines in this book! I cried many times nodding in agreement and understanding of the losses, the frustrations, and the constant need to hand the reigns over to God because we believe He is ultimately in control.
This book reiterated to me how very important a role food plays in so many of our lives. I have often felt it is unfair that so many people can eat what they want. I’ve let it defeat me on more than one occasion. This book was placed in my hands when I needed it most. It reminded me I am NOT alone in this fight for life for this body I have been given. And I am so grateful for her sharing her story… and that food really can be so healing.
Whether you have a health issue that requires a change in food or not…it’s a great read and a wonderful story of how adversity in life can grow us and change our trajectory in the most amazing ways.
Well done!!
September 19, 2021
This book felt like a hug to me. Danielle feels like my big sister or friend encouraging me through the world of AI diseases. I cried several times—it was like she had taken pages from my own journals or my own thoughts. She writes with humble transparency and invites you into her life like a best friend would. As much as I loved this book, I wish other people read it whether it’s friends or family of someone with a chronic illness because Danielle graciously articulates what I struggle to say/have words for about my experience. Danielle instills hope, something I believe we all need more of! She writes whimsically about food, family, fellowship, and faith. I discovered her cookbooks a few years ago and truly believe the power of food saved me in several ways too. It’s a page turner and great for people who wouldn’t call themselves “readers” either.
October 1, 2021
I have been following Danielle Walker for years and have many of her cookbooks. I love how real and honest she is about her disease and life. I knew a lot about her story, but this book filled in many gaps. I'm in awe of her healing journey and the fact that she's a self-trained cook and persevered to turn everyday favorites into meals that are safe for her. While I don't have an autoimmune disease, I'm confident that my healthy lifestyle contributed to me beating cancer. I believe in the healing power of food.
It's also refreshing to read about a strong marriage and her high praise of her husband. On Instagram and Facebook, she always speaks of how supportive Ryan is. I think they are a very special couple!
I pre-ordered the hardback of this book, but I chose to listen to it on audio since Danielle chose to narrate and I wanted to hear her story from her!
It's also refreshing to read about a strong marriage and her high praise of her husband. On Instagram and Facebook, she always speaks of how supportive Ryan is. I think they are a very special couple!
I pre-ordered the hardback of this book, but I chose to listen to it on audio since Danielle chose to narrate and I wanted to hear her story from her!
October 12, 2023
This is probably my second all time favorite memoir/ auto biography. While I don’t struggle with an autoimmune disorder I do struggle with a reproductive disorder and when I found Danielle’s cookbooks they changed my life- I finally decided to pick up a copy of the memoir and my god, the feelings I read.. it was like I was transported back in time to when I first switched to a paleo diet. She accurately describes the feeling of having to start from scratch and change your entire beliefs and feelings around food.
This is such a beautiful memoir and is written so well, I laughed I cried and I felt seen. I am a huge fan of Danielle and this has made me admire her that much more.
This is such a beautiful memoir and is written so well, I laughed I cried and I felt seen. I am a huge fan of Danielle and this has made me admire her that much more.
January 20, 2022
My husband has had Crohn's since he was 15, and at 40 after years in remission, he had a huge flare up that resulted in 3 surgeries. A friend turned us onto Danielle's recipes, and they were a godsend. My husband gave up so much and suffered so greatly, so it's been a joy to try out recipes for delicious food he can eat knowing it's not harming his system!
Danielle's story is inspiring; she genuinely just wanted to help others, and I'm glad she had an opportunity to do so. It's also heart-breaking; this disease requires major stamina & persistence ... she has that and more.
Danielle's story is inspiring; she genuinely just wanted to help others, and I'm glad she had an opportunity to do so. It's also heart-breaking; this disease requires major stamina & persistence ... she has that and more.
August 31, 2021
“Food Saved Me” is Danielle Walker’s personal memoir. Her own heartfelt story written with honesty and transparency. She shares about her life, the correlation of food and family and the initial shock of being diagnosed with an auto immune disease in her early 20’s and how she has courageously faced all the ups and downs since. In the pages of her book, you will see how her gift of hospitality, love of family and food fueled her determination to find the right solutions to help her process, heal and thrive. A stunning part of her story which brought me to tears and inspired me is the way her first cookbook was birthed! Her motivation was driven by her beautiful gift to NURTURE others which allowed her to press through her own suffering! It’s a miracle story you won’t want to miss.
Danielle Walker has been instrumental in 'food saving me' through her NY times best selling cookbooks, her blog and her online cooking courses. Her cookbooks are not only beautiful but filled with delicious personally taste tested recipes that satisfy anyone with or without food allergies or health conditions. Danielle has changed my life for the better by teaching me how to convert from being a “traditional” southern cook, to a “healthy” southern cook! Naturally, I was thrilled to read “Food Saved Me”. It is appropriately titled, incredible and has only endeared me to her and her precious family even more.
Her story brings to light to the significance of food and the ability it has to heal. The fact that we are body, soul, mind and spirit and each part of us needs to be nourished. Reminds me of the Bible verse in Romans 8:28 “All things work together for the good of those who are called according to His purpose for them”. We all have purpose and need one another, there is always hope and this book will encourage you!
Danielle Walker has been instrumental in 'food saving me' through her NY times best selling cookbooks, her blog and her online cooking courses. Her cookbooks are not only beautiful but filled with delicious personally taste tested recipes that satisfy anyone with or without food allergies or health conditions. Danielle has changed my life for the better by teaching me how to convert from being a “traditional” southern cook, to a “healthy” southern cook! Naturally, I was thrilled to read “Food Saved Me”. It is appropriately titled, incredible and has only endeared me to her and her precious family even more.
Her story brings to light to the significance of food and the ability it has to heal. The fact that we are body, soul, mind and spirit and each part of us needs to be nourished. Reminds me of the Bible verse in Romans 8:28 “All things work together for the good of those who are called according to His purpose for them”. We all have purpose and need one another, there is always hope and this book will encourage you!
September 19, 2021
This is a beautiful and powerful memoir that offers hope to anyone suffer from chronic illness. I went gluten- and dairy-free last year, and Danielle’s recipes have brought me so much joy! I routinely make her recipes for friends and family who don’t have food allergies, and get rave reviews. I am so thankful that Danielle turned her pain into so much hope for the rest of us.
If you or someone you know is struggling from an autoimmune disease or chronic illness, this is a MUST READ. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
If you or someone you know is struggling from an autoimmune disease or chronic illness, this is a MUST READ. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
July 11, 2023
I own one of her cookbooks, I’ve checked out a few others from the library, and I’ve checked out her Insta from time-to-time—meaning, I thought I knew enough of her story from those things to not want/need to read her memoir. But as a nutrition junky, and dealing with some gut issues the last couple of years, I decided to reconsider. I’m glad I did! This book gave great detail about her journey which I’m super appreciate of! Even talking about her medications by name, dosages etc. I could also connect for her love of food—a deep foodie lover! And I admired the way she found healing through food in the midst of her struggle with food as well. I know this book can give amazing insight to those who struggle with gut issues, autoimmune, infertility, hormone/thyroid, and autism.
September 16, 2021
Danielle is a brave and authentic author and her recipes and hours spent in the kitchen have helped my daughter and I find amazing grain free recipes! Her journey speaks to the power of food, the power of tenacity and advocating for yourself to have your best life. You will laugh and cry with her and her family and she recounts her journey! Highly recommended
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