Newbie With Too Many Questions Help!

[jen3175]

I have been on the gluten-free for 2 wks. 2 days after I started it I felt better than I had in almost a yr.!! Since then, I've had a few errors, (didn't know all the additives and such) and had as many good days as bad. My most important question is after your intestines have been damaged and you start the diet, how long did you have to eat the really bland food? I have been sick for over a yr. and actually have had syms. for about 2 yrs. I have been in and out of the hosp. since Aug. when I went in because of a bowel blockage or as I later found out that my small intestine just shut down. So, my digestion has been very limited and not much, (I lost 35 lbs.). I went last week and bought a bunch of gluten free sauces, peanut butter, crackers and soups. I ate several things that my extended family said was gluten-free and it wasn't, on Easter. It seems to take at least 2 days to recover whenver this happens. Also, I tried some dried fruit yesterday and am in agony now. I've been up since 1:15 a.m. because I couldn't sleep. I still haven't tried some of the new stuff, because frankly I'm scared of what will happen! I'm guessing that since I have to heal, that I'll have to continue the bland diet for awhile. Has this happened to anyone else? Is this normal? Did I start mixing in new foods too soon? Any advice would be great - Thanks

[Lollie]

Hi! Welcome!

I was sick for a long time before going gluten-free. I still do bland food. It's been about 3 months for me so far. I know that the accidental gluten will hold you back in your healing. I know everyone on here will tell you it just takes time. I think it takes about a year to really be in a good healing status, depending on how damaged you are. Just stick with it, and I personally think I would stay pretty bland for while.

Good Luck!

Lollie

[jerseyangel]

Hi Jen--No such thing as too many questions! At 2 weeks, it's still way too early for you to have done much healing. At this point, it's best to stick to whole, naturally gluten-free food. This would include fresh fruits and vegetables (cooked), meats, poultry, fish, pure water, olive oil. Wait a while for the prepared things and nuts, etc. Be patient--it really does take time

[Ursa Major]

Jen, you might also not want to eat anything raw, even salad or fruit, because it's harder to digest. I couldn't eat anything raw for over a month!

Actually, I just started eating more salad and raw veggies about a month ago, before that it would still sometimes cause a problem. Give it time, you'll be fine.