Jenniferxgfx

*I'm not affiliated in any way with the xgfx.org website. "xgfx" is a shorthand cutesy designation for "gluten-free vegan" and I like it. Veganism is important to me for personal reasons and my freedom from gluten has also become very important, so I wanted this incorporated into my username. I don't know anyone affiliated with the xgfx website, although I've been known to look up recipes on occasion.

I'm 33 years old, and have discovered my gluten intolerance recently after a lifetime of asthma, "acne," and anemia, and 5 (6? I forget) years of fibromyalgia (and a million diverse symptoms blamed on fibromyalgia). I've got invisible disabilities that cause chronic pain (arthritis-spine, spondylolisthesis), but it was the fibromyalgia symptoms that really impacted my lifestyle. Most doctors blame everything on fibromyalgia, and I was complacent and accepting of it for a long time. I've had negative tests, but am convinced gluten is toxic to me since avoiding it has made such a difference, and have accepted that current medical science can't formally diagnose me.

This board has been a huge asset for me in this journey. I don't post a ton, but I read a lot, especially from my phone while resting. I'm always resting, it feels like. Going gluten-free has given me some energy, though. I hope to continue on this up swing. It's a really nice change from the last few years. Thank you for your inspiring stories and helpful information.

As for non-celiac stuff, I have two wonderful partners (we're in a committed closed polyamorous triad, if you're curious), and we have three great cats. We're childfree by choice. I've got a background in chemistry (pharmaceuticals and explosives!) and forensic science, and a love of teaching the general public about science and technology. I'm vegan and wish the whole world had more access to fresh fruits and veggies. I'm a person of size (fat), and my size has definitely impacted how I'm treated by healthcare professionals, and the world in general. I've got a renewed love of baking after a couple successful gluten-free vegan experiments since going gluten-free, and I'm excited about that.