Jump to content

  • Welcome to Celiac.com!

    You have found your celiac tribe! Join us and ask questions in our forum, share your story, and connect with others.



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A1):

    Celiac.com Sponsor (A1-M):

  • Get Celiac.com Updates:
    Support Our Content
    eNewsletter
    Donate

What To Do When Everyone Is Ignorant/inconsiderate?

Drama-Queen

By Drama-Queen
in Coping with Celiac Disease

Recommended Posts

Drama-Queen Rookie
Drama-Queen
Posted

So I went to the Twin's game yesterday and afterwards my boyfriend and his family got the great idea to go to Baker's Square for pie....do I even need to say that it is a gluten-haven? Being nice I didn't say anything and went along with it. At the time I was extremely hungry. I had had breakfast but the game was long. I was at it from 12:00 to 5pm.

So we got to Baker's Square and ordered my beverage....water.....and the waitress came back and asked what I wanted to eat....I said no thanks.

So there I was at a booth with 5 other people...in between my boyfriend and his brother's girlfriend. So I sat there for the next hour watching him eat a brownie a la mode, and the girlfriend eat pumpkin pie. It was torture, and I was getting even hungrier. My boyfriend was well aware that I could not eat any of the food but didn't say anything when the parent's decided on a restaurant, because he is also too polite/nice.

What was the kicker though was that his mom asked "Why didn't you order anything?"

To this I replied "I have Celiac's disease."

She said "What's that?"

So then I had to explain that I can't eat gluten and what kinds of foods it was in.

What is so funny about this was that earlier in the summer before school started I spent a whole weekend (5 days) with my boyfriend's family up in Brainerd. So they accomodated my diet and cooked gluten free for me. I did manage to get glutened that weekend though because of cross-contamination.

Do some people just not have a memory? Do they just not take much interest in others? How hard should I kick my boyfriend in the shins for not saying something?

Peeved....yes. Super flaming angry mad....no. Concerned about my safety....definetely. :unsure:

BTW the Twins won the Division Title! (For those of you that don't like the Twins, don't leave nasty comments about this....that would be not about the point of my post.)

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


CarlaB Enthusiast
CarlaB
Posted

I always carry food with me so that I have something to eat in that kind of circumstance. With celiac you really have to plan out each meal, so on a day like that, where you are dependent on others, bring enough food for the day so that you're pleasantly surprised if they pick a place you can eat. You can't really kick your boyfriend ... you should have said something to him to remind him to speak up for you. Some people (his family) will never remember ... I have totally clueless people related to me!

Drama-Queen Rookie
Drama-Queen
Posted
  • Author

What are your favorite gluten-free items to bring with you? I am new at getting myself acclimated to this new diet. I bring snacks but that never is enough. What would you suggest?

I won't kick my boyfriend. I promise. :P

CarlaB Enthusiast
CarlaB
Posted

Well, right now I stick close to home because I'm on a diet to correct my adrenal fatigue that is waaayyy more strict than gluten-free .... but nuts, Lara Bars, Bumblebars, fruit, etc. is good, and I used to keep that kind of stuff in my purse at all times. If I were gone all day like you were, I would have actually packed a lunch -- gluten-free sandwich, corn torillas with meat and cheese, or something like that with chips, fruit, a bar, etc. Or just pack your favorite gluten-free snack. Last time we travelled, I brought along a box of gluten-free cereal and some Vance's Dari-Free powdered milk substitute (I can't have dairy, but the plus is you don't have to worry about refrigeration, just add water!) and ate cereal when everyone else was eating at a fast food place. I just brought it right in and ate it there (I dare them to tell me I can't! :P ). I'm always watching out for myself ... then if someone else looks out for me it's a pleasant surprise and a real gift from them!

Fortunately, big purses are coming back in style :D

Ruth52 Newbie
Ruth52
Posted

I know how frustrating it is when you aren't able to eat anything on the menu. I have noticed that our local bakery now has the 'token' gluten-free food - chocolate florentines and blueberry friands - not much but at least it's something.

I usually carry my own food. It's annoying and it's inconvenient, but it's safe.

Luckily my husband has learnt that it's a really good idea to cater for my dietary needs when we eat away from home! (I said that with a wry grin on my face).

happygirl Collaborator
happygirl
Posted

peanuts were always a good 'filler' for me if you are aren't allergic (I can't tolerate them now)

any and all fruits, veggies, etc in little bags

I know its not healthy...but I used to bring candy along all the time. Snickers, etc.

fritos, tort chips, gluten free crackers, etc.

surprisingly, there are lots of choices! like carla said, its more about the planning. Which is a pain, but, it'll prevent you from being starving.

Hope this helps!

Drama-Queen Rookie
Drama-Queen
Posted
  • Author

Thanks guys! Great suggestions! :)

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


Guest Kathy Ann
Guest Kathy Ann
Posted

I have a really nice family. But even they have pulled some unbelievably inconsiderate stunts. I have sat many times hungry in a booth surrounded with people chowing down on wonderful stuff. You're not alone. They just aren't thinking.

All the suggestions here have helped me too. I need to completely change how I think when I go places. I need to come up with treats I REALLY like and make sure to have a big supply of them to take wherever I go. I might not be able to enjoy what they are all having, but at least I won't have to starve at the same time! :blink:

Looks like I'll have to get a bigger purse! :P

Drama-Queen Rookie
Drama-Queen
Posted
  • Author

Thrift Store large purse hunting here I come!!!!

And it will be vintage, and cheap too.....!!

Or I can just make one.....

(my creative mind is already working) :lol:

tarnalberry Community Regular
tarnalberry
Posted

I suggest a couple things:

1. bring backup food in a purse/pocket - you never know when you won't be able to find food

2. speak up for yourself and don't rely on others to do it for you

3. talk to the waitress/waiter/manager about what you can have - I'll bet they would have had a baked potato or plain steak they could have made for you.

Michi8 Contributor
Michi8
Posted
Do some people just not have a memory? Do they just not take much interest in others? How hard should I kick my boyfriend in the shins for not saying something?

Some people can't think beyond themselves, and really cannot even grasp being unable to eat something, especially if they have none of their own allergy/intolerance problems. Take my dad for example...I've had a peanut allergy since childhood, yet he would forget and bring home treats for the family that obviously had peanuts in them. Gosh he must have felt awful to see the hurt look on his little girl's face (and then he'd return to the store to get me something too.) :rolleyes:

Michelle

JenKuz Explorer
JenKuz
Posted
Thrift Store large purse hunting here I come!!!!

And it will be vintage, and cheap too.....!!

Or I can just make one.....

(my creative mind is already working) :lol:

Off topic, but check out www.craftster.org They have a thousand and one amazing bag patterns. And millions of other fantastic ideas for things to make. My user name is craft-matic, so watch for me :)

Or ebay "vintage airline bag" for some really cool large totes. Some are overpriced, but others are dirt cheap, thrift store prices. But that's coming from a girl in a sad, sad city where the thrift stores are worthless :(

Guest Kathy Ann
Guest Kathy Ann
Posted

How about designing a stylish purse with clever hidden lined pockets to house a small ice pack and lots and lots of zippers or velcro for all those snacks, condiments, etc. to stay put? I'm going to work on that! :)

Adelle Enthusiast
Adelle
Posted

I'm notorious for bringing food with me. Even before I discovered celiac. I always keep at least 1 "zone" bar with me. It tastes yummy and it tides me over till I can get actual food. I keep nonperishables stashed in my car, and usually have some fruit with me too. The local grocery store sells these instant nukeable thai food things, I stash them everywhere.

I'm also kind of a jerk, if someone wanted to go "out to eat" I would either say " well since I can't eat there, just drop me off at home and I'll eat there" or if they insist I'd say, "ok but let's find a phone book and call around to find a place that won't make me SICK". Usually they back off. Lol

And I have a big purse too :)

Guest melannen
Guest melannen
Posted
Off topic, but check out www.craftster.org They have a thousand and one amazing bag patterns. And millions of other fantastic ideas for things to make. My user name is craft-matic, so watch for me :)

Or ebay "vintage airline bag" for some really cool large totes. Some are overpriced, but others are dirt cheap, thrift store prices. But that's coming from a girl in a sad, sad city where the thrift stores are worthless :(

I just have to chime in and second the recommendation for craftster. I'm over there too (night_owl)!

ok, back on topic :)

I love dried cranberries and peanuts, always have some with me. I also love KIND fruit and nut bars (made by PeaceWorks); my favorite is coconut almond.

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Go to topic listing

  • Get Celiac.com Updates:
    Support Celiac.com:
    Join eNewsletter
    Donate
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A17):
    Celiac.com Sponsor (A17):



    Celiac.com Sponsors (A17-M):



  • Recent Activity

    1. Rogol72
      - Rogol72 replied to klmgarland's topic in Dermatitis Herpetiformis
      3

      Help I’m cross contaminating myself,

      @klmgarland, My dermatitis herpetiformis didn't clear up until I became meticulous about cross contamination. I cut out gluten-free oats and all gluten-free foods, dairy and gluten-free rice. Additionally, getting the right amount of protein for my body weight helped significantly in my body's healing process ... along with supplementing with enough...
    2. ShariW
      - ShariW commented on Scott Adams's article in Frequently Asked Questions About Celiac Disease
      4

      What are Celiac Disease Symptoms?

      In addition to gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, I had gastroesophageal reflux that was becoming intolerable despite treatment with PPIs and antacids. When I went gluten-free, the GERD lessened tremendously (as did the other symptoms).
    3. klmgarland
      - klmgarland replied to klmgarland's topic in Dermatitis Herpetiformis
      3

      Help I’m cross contaminating myself,

      Thank you so very much Scott. Just having someone understand my situation is so very helpful. If I have one more family member ask me how my little itchy skin thing is going and can't you just take a pill and it will go away and just a little bit of gluten can't hurt you!!!! I think I will scream!!
    4. Scott Adams
      - Scott Adams replied to klmgarland's topic in Dermatitis Herpetiformis
      3

      Help I’m cross contaminating myself,

      It is difficult to do the detective work of tracking down hidden sources of cross-contamination. The scenarios you described—the kiss, the dish towel, the toaster, the grandbaby's fingers—are all classic ways those with dermatitis herpetiformis might get glutened, and it's a brutal learning curve that the medical world rarely prepares you for. It is difficult to ...
    5. Scott Adams
      - Scott Adams replied to Jmartes71's topic in Coping with Celiac Disease
      1

      My only proof

      It's very frustrating to be dismissed by medical professionals, especially when you are the one living with the reality of your condition every day. Having to be your own advocate and "fight" for a doctor who will listen is an exhausting burden that no one should have to carry. While that 1998 brochure is a crucial piece of your personal history, it's infuriating...
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A19):


  • Member Statistics

    • Total Members
      131,909
    • Most Online (within 30 mins)
      7,748
    Hmart
    Newest Member
    Hmart
    Joined
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A20):

  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      121.4k
    • Total Posts
      1m
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A22):



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A21):


  • Who's Online (See full list)

  • Upcoming Events

  • Posts

    • Rogol72
      Help I’m cross contaminating myself,

      By Rogol72 · Posted

      @klmgarland, My dermatitis herpetiformis didn't clear up until I became meticulous about cross contamination. I cut out gluten-free oats and all gluten-free foods, dairy and gluten-free rice. Additionally, getting the right amount of protein for my body weight helped significantly in my body's healing process ... along with supplementing with enough of all the vitamins and minerals ... especially Zinc and Magnesium. I went from 70kg to 82kg in a year. Protein with each meal 3 times daily, especially eggs at breakfast made the difference. I'm not sure whether iodine was a problem for me, but I can tolerate iodine no problem now. I'm off Dapsone and feel great. Not a sign of an itch. So there is hope. I'm not advocating for the use of Dapsone, but it can bring a huge amount of relief despite it's effect on red blood cells. The itch is so distracting and debilitating. I tried many times to get off it, it wasn't until I implemented the changes above and was consistent that I got off it. Dermatitis Herpetiformis is horrible, I wouldn't wish it on anyone.  
    • klmgarland
      Help I’m cross contaminating myself,

      By klmgarland · Posted

      Thank you so very much Scott.  Just having someone understand my situation is so very helpful.  If I have one more family member ask me how my little itchy skin thing is going and can't you just take a pill and it will go away and just a little bit of gluten can't hurt you!!!! I think I will scream!!
    • Scott Adams
      Help I’m cross contaminating myself,

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      It is difficult to do the detective work of tracking down hidden sources of cross-contamination. The scenarios you described—the kiss, the dish towel, the toaster, the grandbaby's fingers—are all classic ways those with dermatitis herpetiformis might get glutened, and it's a brutal learning curve that the medical world rarely prepares you for. It is difficult to have to deal with such hyper-vigilance. The fact that you have made your entire home environment, from makeup to cleaners, gluten-free is a big achievement, but it's clear the external world and shared spaces remain a minefield. Considering Dapsone is a logical and often necessary step for many with DH to break the cycle of itching and allow the skin to heal while you continue your detective work; it is a powerful tool to give you back your quality of life and sleep. You are not failing; you are fighting an incredibly steep battle. For a more specific direction, connecting with a dedicated celiac support group (online or locally) can be invaluable, as members exchange the most current, real-world tips for avoiding cross-contamination that you simply won't find in a pamphlet. You have already done the hardest part by getting a correct diagnosis. Now, the community can help you navigate the rest. If you have DH you will likely also want to avoid iodine, which is common in seafoods and dairy products, as it can exacerbate symptoms in some people. This article may also be helpful as it offers various ways to relieve the itch:  
    • Scott Adams
      My only proof

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      It's very frustrating to be dismissed by medical professionals, especially when you are the one living with the reality of your condition every day. Having to be your own advocate and "fight" for a doctor who will listen is an exhausting burden that no one should have to carry. While that 1998 brochure is a crucial piece of your personal history, it's infuriating that the medical system often requires more contemporary, formal documentation to take a condition seriously. It's a common and deeply unfair situation for those who were diagnosed decades ago, before current record-keeping and testing were standard. You are not alone in this struggle.
    • Scott Adams
      Methylprednisone treatment for inflammation?

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      Methylprednisolone is sometimes prescribed for significant inflammation of the stomach and intestines, particularly for conditions like Crohn's disease, certain types of severe colitis, or autoimmune-related gastrointestinal inflammation. As a corticosteroid, it works by powerfully and quickly suppressing the immune system's inflammatory response. For many people, it can be very effective at reducing inflammation and providing rapid relief from symptoms like pain, diarrhea, and bleeding, often serving as a short-term "rescue" treatment to bring a severe flare under control. However, experiences can vary, and its effectiveness depends heavily on the specific cause of the inflammation. It's also important to be aware that while it can work well, it comes with potential side effects, especially with longer-term use, so it's typically used for the shortest duration possible under close medical supervision. It's always best to discuss the potential benefits and risks specific to your situation with your gastroenterologist.
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

NOTICE: This site places This site places cookies on your device (Cookie settings). on your device. Continued use is acceptance of our Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy.