I can't remember what the first 2 days were really like when I went GF, they don't really stand out, but the third day was pretty euphoric. I couldn't believe how good I felt. Everyone is unique. Now, I will say that the next year was very tough and I wondered if I would ever be able to go an entire month without getting sick. As my gut healed, the amount of gluten it took to make me sick got smaller and smaller, but I was getting sicker and sicker each time. It took months to root out all the "hidden" gluten. My friends have been very understanding, but I'm still working on navigating the social scene. If I want to have a holiday family dinner, I have to be the one to host it and fit the bill for the food (not a cheap proposition) b/c my family doesn't really get it. One thing I've learned is there is a way to handle every situation, but it may take some time and experimenting to find out what works best for you. If you have to eat before you go to a party, bring your own food, or host it yourself, there is always a way you can keep yourself safe and have fun. I have one friend that I eat lunch with on a regular basis and I just bring my lunch over to her house. It is more about the conversation than it is about the food.

The first few weeks were horrible. I had headaches, felt sick, fatigued, dizzy and just horrible! But then I finally got there. At about 12 months I felt the best.

The cravings are hard, but they will go. Most places do gluten free pizzas. If I'm going somewhere I take something that I can eat, let them know in advanced and ask if you can bring something.

It gets easier, just keep at it.

When I go to a gathering, such as a church social, etc., I always bring a main dish and dessert that I can eat. That way I know I can eat something. However, I also casually check how the other dishes are made and can often have something such as mashed potatoes or cole slaw or salad. While it does seem difficult at first, it will get easier.

My family and friends all know that I'm gluten intolerant. Sometimes, I will eat before I visit, or will bring my own food, or just will refrain from eating. But I always "compliment the cook" for their dishes that look and/or smell terrific. Most of these people really try to accommodate me--such as baking a Betty Crocker GF cake, or calling me ahead of time to find out what I can eat.

Going out to eat is the most difficult, so I often do the salad thing, figuring I can eat other foods when I'm home. Depending on which restaurant, I might eat something small before going to the restaurant. That way the salad doesn't make me feel deprived. Anyway, keep up the good work. Best wishes to you.