Celiac Disease Support Group
Celiac disease is an auto-immune disorder of the digestive system that occurs in genetically-predisposed individuals. It is characterised by damage or flattening to all or part of the villi lining the small intestine, which interferes with the absorption of nutrients. This damage is caused by eating anything with gluten (gliadin), a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley...
My daughter's blood test just came back positive for Celiac. She has been suffering about 5 years with chronic constipation, anxiety, insomnia, unexplained sinus issues, stomach problems, etc. Her stomach problems recently have gotten worse, and it became apparent that she would have them after eating some type of bread, pasta, etc. I called to ask for a blood test, and it is positive. She is seeing someone from GI this week, but I have to say that already I am completely overwhelmed. This will be a whole new world, and I am responsible for keeping her safe. This has made my depression worse. Please tell me this gets better. We were told the rest of the family should be tested so I am going to be this week and have asked for labs for my son and husband as well. I am already worried about making gluten free dinners, cross contamination, etc. and we have not even started the diet yet due to more possible tests. I need someone who has dealt with this to please tell me this gets better. I am so scared right now.
Educate yourself first. Then start with baby steps and remember to do the best that you can. Progress not perfection. You're going to make some mistakes. That's life. Learn and move on with regard to your families health. It will be challenging but you can do this.
Perhaps getting your whole family on gluten free will be helpful with reducing stress. That way you don't have to worry about cross contamination, separate meals, etc.
I would try to stay away from the gluten free snacks and pasta. Try to stick to a more plant based diet, like fruits, vegetables and grass fed protein.