Truths For When You "Get Glutened"

November will mark one year of knowing I have Celiac disease and one year of living gluten-free (though with some accidental set-backs). I've discovered that gluten can be found in the least obvious places: crumbs in microwaves, dried spices, probiotics and medicines, packaged nuts, the list goes on. I've also learned that living a normal life often involves trusting complete strangers at restaurants to take care and ensure that food won't make me sick. It's a humbling process and I've "gotten glutened" several times.

Each time I accidentally eat gluten, my body pays the price for sometimes several days. Usually my symptoms are a migraine, stomach burning, fatigue, and brain fog. Other people with Celiac have more or less intense reactions. It's still crazy to me that a crumb of gluten can cause an auto-immune reaction in my body, with my body attacking and damaging itself.

During these glutened-days, it's easy to feel discouraged. It's easy to feel frustrated about a food decision or wish I could fast-forward into the future when my body is going to feel stronger again. These truths have helped me gain perspective when I'm feeling miserable and need to give myself grace:

1. You don’t need to know the exact food that is causing this reaction. You can rest in what you do know.

2. Give yourself grace when you’re fatigued or in pain or have a migraine. Don’t be afraid to ask for support.

3. When you are in pain and struggling, pray through your discomfort but also pray for friends who have health problems. Use these challenging days to develop trust in God and compassion for others.

4. Remember that tomorrow is a new day, and a new chance to eat gluten-free and feel better.

5. Don’t believe the lie that says “God doesn’t see you.” Dwell on God’s faithful love and build intimacy with Him.

6. I know you’re worried about the long-term damage to your body but instead, focus on today, on getting healthy again this week.

With joy,

Annie