MY CELIAC EXPERIENCE

WHAT?

Celiacs is an intolerance for the food substance called gluten. Gluten is in wheat, oats, rye and barley. Modified food starch and malt usually contain one of these ingredients as well. Gluten attacks the lining of the small intestine preventing normal absorption of food nutrients. Celiacs is passed on to individuals through heritage.

WHEN?

I was born with celiacs but we did not discover this until I was five years old. I started showing signs at age three. I started vomiting a lot and had frequent diarrhea. I was tired a lot and couldn't gain any weight. I spent two years visiting specialists and having tests done in hospitals. I weighed as much at five as I did at three, I was wasting away! Finally, one night I woke up with a huge stomach ache and my parents realized that my chest was very taut. I went to the emergency room where the doctors discovered that my small intestines had crimped. They were going to operate but someone suggestyed a last ditch alternative that worked. Fortunately, there was a specialist there who became curious about my condition and asked my parents and me many questions. He had an idea! He scheduled a biopsy which confirmed his suspicion and he put me on a new diet. Within weeks I was feeling much better and began gaining weight!

IS IT BAD?

NO! It is frustrating sometimes when I can't eat cookies, cakes & pizzas with my friends and I get irritated having to explain it all the time. Restaurants can be difficult too! BUT I have learned to live with my condition and my restrictive diet. We have learned to cook things differently and I know I have to speak up for myself in restaturants and at friend's houses. I like feeling better (and I hate it when I make a mistake and get sick!)...

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