Having One Of 'those Moments'...i Don't Want To Be Coeliac Anymore

[Aussie GF Girl]

I feel like I'm reaching out in desperation. From this point of view, I'm delighted I've come across this forum - there's nothing like being surrounded by like minded (gluten-free) people!

Having been eating a strict gluten free diet following diagnosis (in Australia) 11 years ago, I've done really well. I took 2 years to rebuild my health and energies to some sort of 'normality' following diagnosis. It also took me a while to start trusting cafes and restaurants that their gluten free was actually gluten-free. Anyway, long story cut short...I love eating out and 'supporting the hospitality industry' as my boyfriend jokes.

Since eating out a week ago and having become 'gluten sick', I'm at the end of my tether. My guts have never been so sore, and I don't think I've ever been this much of a regular visitor to the bathroom for such an extended period. I know that getting sick is a chance we take, however what I'm wondering about is my level of sensitivity. I'm sick and tired of being 'knocked for six' and having to be out of action for a whole week everytime I unknowningly eat gluten.

My latest thought is whether it's possible to desensitize myself to gluten a little. One way I can think of doing this is by using the general household toaster, instead of operating in the usual 100% gluten-free zone of my own.

Is this crazy? All of the Coeliacs I know don't get so sick when they consume a little. Ultimately, I'm having trouble understanding why I am so sensitive. Bring on the vaccine they're working on in Melbourne!

Would love to hear your thoughts.

[Jestgar]

I think you may be crazy. This isn't like an allergy where you can teach your body that a little bit is normal. Gluten activates the immune system which never accepts any invaders as normal (with good reason). The only thing you might possibly accomplish is to so overwhelm your immune system that it starts to shut down. You might react less to gluten, but you will be a greater risk from ordinary viruses and bacteria.