Hi! I’m Jamie and I have a gluten intolerance. For me, it triggers RA flare-ups, makes me violently ill and just plain miserable. I have been on this journey for several years and have struggled most of the way. If you’ve just recently discovered that gluten is your mortal enemy you’re probably feeling lost and aren’t even sure what gluten is.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It’s a very common (sometimes hidden) ingredient in many foods such as bread, pasta, and baked goods… yes, that includes cake. Some people have gluten intolerances or allergies which can lead to a variety of unpleasant symptoms. If you’re like me, following a gluten-free diet is an essential challenge.
A gluten-free diet involves eliminating all foods that contain gluten. This can be difficult, as gluten is found in many processed foods and is commonly used as a filler. You will probably be able to find gluten-free alternatives to most of your favorite foods in your local grocery store. Beware all those goodies though, this diet can be pretty expensive if you’re not careful! The best option in most cases is to cut out as many processed foods as possible.
Let’s talk benefits of going gluten-free. Following a gluten-free diet can help to relieve symptoms and improve overall health. Ditching gluten may be beneficial for people with other health conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, autoimmune disorders, and type 1 diabetes. In most cases, making this diet change can lead to weight loss too! Not only does it reduce bloating, but you’ll most likely be making healthier food choices.
If you are considering switching to a gluten-free diet, it is important to talk to your doctor first. Your doctor can help you determine if a gluten-free diet is right for you and can provide you with guidance on how to make the transition.
Here are some tips for following a gluten-free diet:
- Read food labels carefully. Many foods, even those that you might not expect, contain gluten. Be sure to check the labels of all foods before you eat them. Most foods now contain the GF seal on them, but you can also check the allergens area of the labels for gluten, wheat, barley, malt, and rye.
- Ask questions when you eat out. Not all restaurants are familiar with gluten-free diets. Be sure to ask your server if the restaurant has any gluten-free options if they are not designated on the menu. If items are labeled as GF mention that it’s an allergy so they are more mindful of cross-contamination.
- Be prepared to cook more at home. It can be challenging to find gluten-free options when dining out, especially with fast food. If you are planning to eat out, be sure to call ahead and ask if the restaurant has any gluten-free options or check their menu online.
- Join a gluten-free support group. This can be a great way to get support and advice from other people who are following a gluten-free diet. Keep a food journal. This can help you track the foods that you eat and identify any foods that cause symptoms.
- Be patient and don’t give up. It takes time to adjust to a new diet. Don’t get discouraged if you make mistakes, we’ve all been accidentally glutened before. It will all get easier as you go.
Following a gluten-free diet won’t always be easy, but it is possible to live a healthy and happy life without gluten… even if at the moment that feels impossible. With a little planning and effort, you can easily find foods and recipes that you love. Hopefully, some of the recipes I’ll be sharing with you will quickly become your favorites!