Just Been Diagnosed -- Help Me!

[celiac3270]

I had been having stomach problems for a couple years, but my doctor didn't attribute it to Celiac disease. Finally, after going to a specialist and taking some tests, he said that the blood test revealed that I may have Celiac diseas and that my slightly low bone age backs that up. A few days ago I had the endoscopy done.

Prior to the procedure, I was told to maintain a regular diet. Now eating gluten-free, it has been difficult. I love potatoes, so I was glad to have a gluten-free starch that I enjoy. Unfortunately, I am a picky eater. Could someone please give a 13 year-old Celiac some advice on what foods are good? I can search stores for specific brands, if you have any.

School has been difficult as well. In the cafeteria, my problem is not about finding something I like, but something that I am allowed to eat. All I have found is fruit (peaches, apples, banannas, grapes, etc.) and yogurt some days. Thus, I have been eating meal replacement bars for lunch, in addition to whatever fruit I can get. I have also kept corn cakes and some gluten-free cookies in my bag if I start to starve. I haven't found many good meal bars? Again, any advice?

Finally, having just begun the diet, I am not entirely knowledgable. I have read and researched a good deal and will soon see a dietarian about what I can eat and stuff. I have a nine year old brother who likes to eat gluten-packed foods, but that hasn't bothered me too much yet. The rest of my family is being tested. Any advice for a Celiac new to the diet and way of life? All responses are appreciated. Thanks for helping.

[corbintlg]

celiac3270:

I'll be honest that it isn't easy. I'm 28 - diagnosed when I was 2. I would bring my lunch most of the time. Just to be certain. Trust me, it is not worth it - eating something that not only is going to make you feel terrible, but cause possible permanent damage to your body. Hang in there. If you have a Whole Foods store or Wild Oat store near you - they have a wonderful selection of foods and products. You can almost make anything that you want from what they offer. If not, get online and start ordering.

Keep your head up high and be thankful that what you have is only Celiac Disease and not something else that was terminal, etc.

With time, it will just become natural as to what you can and cannot eat. Again, hang in there. You'll be o.k. Tammy

[Newbie]

Hey celiac3270...

As Tammy said, being gluten free isn't easy. We all struggle and feel down about it and you'll have days where you feel like that too. But the reality of it is we can't change the facts. But you know what? I'm sure you can do this. Below is a link to a list of gluten free products... I hope you find it helpful... it has helped me out a fair bit. These message boards are a great resource because you'll find a lot of people on here who are going through the same things as you. Also, there is a teen section that may be helpful for you since you're 13. I'm 20 and being g.f. is tough on me, so I know there will be tough days for you as well. But I'm SURE you'll be able to do this! Try your best and good luck to you. Here's the link:

Open Original Shared Link

[wclemens]

Wow celiac3270, it is hard to believe that you are only 13. Having Celiac must have made you smarter than the average population. Just the fact that you are posting here says alot for your determination.

I am 59 and have had Celiac since age 8. My primary, main goal in life is to have good health so I can help others. My new grandson has Celiac too. I've started creating new recipes with him in mind, so that is where I'll start.

Eating meats, fruits, and vegetables is the simplest way to avoid gluten. Making your own meals assures that you keep a healthy diet. Carrying foods and drinks with you wherever you go makes it certain that you will stay strong. I haven't seen many prepared foods that I can eat. Milk and dairy in prepared products can be hazardous, along with casein, whey, malt additives, egg whites and yeast.

I went to meats, fruits, and vegetables only for awhile, then added back one food at a time. I like sugar. I eat a little each day, and am doing great. Chocolate, butter, etc. are based on milk. I eat Imperial Margarine instead, and can eat Kraft Mayonnaise. I can drink Diet Rite Raspberry soda, A&W Root Beer, and Dr. Pepper Diet Caffeine soda. It is good to get a lot of liquids.

My top priority is to put only the foods I trust into my mouth. Reading labels diligently and learning what the food industry calls things is important. Let us know how you are doing, okay? Remember, we are all doing this diet "one day at a time!" Always, Welda

[Guest shar4]

celiac3270,

Glad to see you here, and know that everyone here will help to answer your questions. I have only been gluten-free about 6 months, and I come here nearly every day, mostly because there are people like me here. I just had my first Gluten ACCIDENT, and trust me, it ain't no fun. After a week, I'm finally feeling better. The biggest thing for me has been to train myself to read, read, read, EVERY LABLE. Even then, something may throw you a ringer.

Chin up, and be glad that it isn't something worse.

You have friends here.