Coeliac Life


What does it mean to be a Coeliac for me? You? Us? 

Coeliac seems to be a bit of an enigma and it definitely was for me before I was diagnosed. Lots of people have some idea or no idea and that is totally cool but for me it is something I have to make a priority. No, it is not a phase, fad or diet, for me this is for life! Whether it's planning food shopping, lunch with friends, travel or just daily life, being completely gluten free is my reality! It is a daily struggle of balancing, being prepared and hoping not to offend anyone when I don't eat their food, because it is "probably gluten free". As a gluten intolerant person said to me recently, "just risk it" I looked at her with complete confusion... did she not understand that I would love to "risk it"! I would love to be the person in the corner picking at the canapes because they didn't look too bad or drinking the cocktails without any fear. No for us coeliacs we do not have the luxury of eating or drinking the unknown.... and unfortunately that means that we need to ask a lot of questions, be prepared and sometimes be the asshole who has to say no (something I still struggle with). 

What does Coeliac Diesease mean? Are you Gluten Intolerant? 
Coeliac disease is an immune disease, unlike gluten intolerance which is an intolerance to food. Coeliac disease is where gluten effects the bowel causing damage and trauma to the villi in the stomach. Left untreated it can cause damage to most areas of the body (liver, bones, nervous system etc) and can lead to cancer and infertility. Not being a medical practitioner I can only tell you what I have been told by my doctors and dietitian and that is this, the only way to manage coeliac disease is to be completely gluten free. This means for me, there will be no risking it! 

What does Coeliac Disease mean for me? 
I can also tell you from my experience, being diagnosed was the best thing that ever and I mean EVER happened to me! This may sound crazy but it is true, I walked around like a zombie for so many years, numb and unable to understand how others could do so much and I struggled doing a basic task. My focus, drive, clarity and zest for life continues to grow and this has been a direct result of being diagnosed and becoming gluten free. I love food ... I mean my relationship with food is a good one. If I could pick a hobby eating would be high on the things that I enjoy and am good at ! Yes, being Coeliac has changed this relationship somewhat but it is still something I greatly enjoy and accompanied with my love for travel and general adventures is why I started writing this blog to help others starting their Coeliac or Gluten Free journey! 

What does it mean for me? You? Us? 
Whether you are gluten free or not, coeliac or not, there is one fundamental truth, that knowledge is power. Therefore whether you are interested in gluten free living or want to learn about the adventures and life of someone living with coeliac disease, you've come to the right place! More than anything though I would love to start an online discussion and dialogue where coeliac disease is celebrated and made simpler. 

Happy and safe travels, 
Georgia
The Coeliac Adventurer





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