When I played college soccer we would go out for a big pasta meal before a game. Load up on your carbs the coaches would tell us. This ideology probably worked back then when food was whole and free of additives, chemicals, etc…
But times have changed.
Last Wednesday I was diagnosed with a gluten intolerance. I went to see a naturopathic doctor a couple of weeks prior after I kept feeling worn down, tired, unable to focus, and the list goes on. After talking with her for about an hour she gave me a lab slip to get my blood tested. After a 10 hour fast and seeing at least 8 vials they needed to fill up, I nearly passed out…luckily I didn’t.
Some would have been devastated at the news thinking “I can’t give up my bread!” and some would ignore it, well if it’s not a serious disease I’ll live through it.
I was neither. I was relieved.
I finally found the root to my problem and after 4 days of being gluten-free I already feel 10x better, like I slept for 20 hours straight! My energy level has never been better. I still have a long way to go but having the right doctor and great friends I’ll get through the initial hump. There are times I want a roll Kendall’s eating, but thinking about how crappy I’ll feel afterwards keeps me in check.
My “work in progress” diet is even affecting my training. Last month I signed up for my first voluntary 5k. As I said before I played college soccer and had to run them regardless, now I want to run one on my own terms. Although I still “sucked wind” while training today I felt lighter and like I didn’t need to put so much effort into it.
I always heard that what you eat affects what you do but until you actually do something about it you’ll never know. I’ve been reading this site, learning the symptoms and the long-term affects of eating a gluten-based diet if you have an intolerance. It’s really scary.
So I’m on the road to recovery and reading the Gluten Free Girl and the Chef and With Style & Grace. Thanks Christi, Sarah and Amy for the links and support!
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I sense your relief. When you have control over how you feel b/c of information, it is so empowering. I was never formally diagnosed, but after a couple years of unexplained symptoms (all of which are on that list), I tried cutting out certain foods to see what happened. Gluten! It is amazing how much better I feel!! Like a new person. I also find great recipes on the Gluten Free Goddess – best of luck with the new you!!
I just happened upon your blog today in search of a planner for my (gluten free!) blog. I found your page for the free printable “My Blog Topics” and immediately printed it out. Normally this would be the end of my search but I decided to click the “home” button and check out the rest of your site – imagine my surprise when your most recent blog post is about a gluten intolerance! Strange coincidence! I’ve only just started my gluten free blog this summer but I’ve had Celiac Disease for 20 years so I know a LOT about navigating the world of gluten free living. There are so many great resources out there, especially in the blog world. I’m glad you’ve found relief from this diet, I know you’ll come to love it. If you ever need anything at all please feel free to email me!
Thanks Jan! It is a relief knowing. It’ll be a challenge to cope with this on top of Kendall’s allergies but we’ll make do. I’m so glad you found what’s working for you! I’ll have to check out that blog.
Hi Janelle! Thanks for stopping by and saying hello! I’m sorry to read about your story but happy that you have found the answer and staying so positive! Your blog is really informative and will go far. Stay in touch!
I’m gluten free too and have noticed a huge difference as well. Gluten Free Girl’s first book made me actually excited to go off gluten, so I always recommend it to newbies:) Also check out BabyCakes cookbooks for your baking needs. Yum
I’m glad you found a solution to your issues. If anybody can do it I know you can!!!!!!! I posted some gluten free tortilla’s on your wall. Let me know if you like them.