Hello everyone!

I am so excited to launch my new blog just in time for Coeliac Awareness Week!

In July 2016, I had a blood test to see if I had Coeliac Disease. After this was confirmed with a biopsy in November 2016, I began my gluten free life!

To start off the week, I thought I would discuss my experience so far.

There are so many factors that affect you when you have coeliac disease and eat gluten.There are the common symptoms such as stomach pains, rashes and diarrhoea, but there are also what I like to call the ‘hidden’ symptoms. Firstly, fatigue. This has a major aspect on every part of your life. Your ability to get out of bed, to go to work, to socialise with friends and spend time with your family. This is the symptom I was affected by greatly. My ability to work would be a couple of hours before I would need to rest in bed. Another symptom is the impact on mental health. As my gastroenterologist explained, many people with undiagnosed coeliac disease become depressed. With a history of anxiety, adding depression into the mix was a lot to handle.

But it’s not all bad! For those of us dealing with this condition, there are a few things to keep in mind to remain positive.

1. We have a solution – avoid gluten! There are so many gluten free options (plus all the foods that are naturally gluten free anyway).
2. We have friends and family to support us.
3. Peanut butter exists!