I have Celiac Disease. However, it took 15 years of “tummy problems” to get that diagnosis.
It all started for me in High School. Some time during my sophomore year I started having issues with my stomach (read diarrhea). After some tests a Dr. told me I had Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS. So he gave me some meds and sent me on my way. I still had issues but it wasn’t as bad. Then the depression showed up. More Dr. visits and more meds.
When my husband and I decided to start our family I went to the Dr. to get checked out to make sure everything was ok since I had a history of crazy cycles. After more tests I found out I had PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. So more meds and luckily after two months we were pregnant.
So at this point I thought I had IBS, Depression, and infertility issues.
In November of 2010 during a visit with my Gastroenterologist I told him to test me for everything he could think of. I was tired of frequenting the bathroom and wanted some real answers. A blood test for Celiac Disease came back with a rating of “moderate to strong”. To get a complete diagnosis I had to have an upper endoscopy test so they could biopsy my small intestines. This biopsy was done right before Christmas. January 4, 2011 my life changed with a call from the Dr. saying I was confirmed to have Celiac Disease.
Finally I had the answer to all my health issues. Celiac Disease causes diarrhea, depression and infertility. The cure or management of the disease is a Gluten Free diet. A simple solution but a difficult and major life change.
Within two weeks of going Gluten Free I felt like a NEW PERSON! I had more energy, zero tummy problems and just felt better overall.
Two months after going Gluten Free we got pregnant with twins!
Now I’m a wife and mom to three young kids living a Gluten Free life.
So here begins my journey with Celiac Disease and Gluten Free Living.
Why Blog?
1. To keep me accountable.
If I know people will be reading and checking my blog it will keep me accountable to stay focused on the Gluten Free lifestyle.
2. To help and connect with other Celiacs
Having Celiac disease and trying to eat Gluten Free is difficult. It helps to be a part of a community. To help I have written a number of books to help people along their Gluten Free journey.
In April 2013 I published a cookbook, Family Approved Gluten Free Recipes. You can purchase it through Amazon.
My newest book, Succeed at Living Gluten Free is a great resource for anyone on a Gluten Free journey.
