Another Newbie

[soulcurrent]

Just wanted to introduce myself since I've been lurking around a little bit. I tested positive for celiac sprue about two weeks ago after an endoscopy. I did the blood work but haven't heard the results yet, expecting it'll be the same. I'm 25 and have experienced serious stomach pain and abdominal expansion/bloating since I was 17 or so (that's when I noticed it was a common thing for me, anyway). I thought it was because of my diet of fast food and more fast food, so I stopped and things got much better for several years. Earlier this year it came back so I went in for the usual tests and eventually insisted on a referral to a GI. Based on posts I've seen my breathing complaints may also be related, since I test normally on all the lung function stuff.

I started the new diet about a week and a half ago and so far haven't had any problems. I was pleasantly surprised to find Skittles are gluten free, and that makes everything seem quite alright My whole life I've eaten a LOT of white rice and potatoes. They've always been the foundation of my diet, so that was another bonus knowing I could still eat those. Today I picked up my first loaf of bread and was really annoyed that I spent $5 on a small loaf with slices half the size of normal bread. The financial adjustment will be a lot harder than the dietary one...

Anywizzy, hullo and howdy.

[StacyA]

If you have a wellness reimbursement account through an employer (where you set aside part of your paycheck in a tax-free account) - the extra money you have to spend on gluten-free stuff can be reimbursed through this account. Ask your human resource person if it's something offered through your job - it at least can save you a little bit.

[soulcurrent]

If you have a wellness reimbursement account through an employer (where you set aside part of your paycheck in a tax-free account) - the extra money you have to spend on gluten-free stuff can be reimbursed through this account. Ask your human resource person if it's something offered through your job - it at least can save you a little bit.

Hmm.. Do you mean a flexible spending account?

[StacyA]

Yes, most FSA plans allow for the extra cost of a special diet to be included. You'd have to check with your employer - you may need a letter from a doctor and you'd have to keep receipts.

[mamaw]

It is not quite so easy . You must determine the difference between the reg wheat type bread & what the gluten-free bread cost. It is the difference in cost. You have to do this for every gluten-free item you want to use the Medical Spending account. Personally I don't have the time to do that plus you must save & send in every recipe.... very time-consuming & a hassle for me ....

mamaw

[soulcurrent]

My employer does offer it but I'd have to give up my PPO insurance. It's no big deal though. I'll just put in extra hours, grin and bear it. Adjustments have to be made somewhere.