Adjusting to a Celiac Disease Diagnosis
Developing a Positive Attitude Toward Gluten Intolerance
Jun 26, 2008
If it were only a matter of changing the diet, a person newly diagnosed with celiac disease wouldn't experience emotional upheaval and confusion - which she often does.
There are steps that a person can take to build a positive attitude toward gluten intolerance.
Accepting the Celiac Disease Diagnosis
Even though many people are relieved to get a diagnosis, there is still an acceptance process. Eating gluten-free will mean making some changes, but it can be accomplished. There are proactive steps that can help with acceptance:
- It is important for the person to talk to family and friends about what it will mean, expressing all of the feelings that come up - good and bad.
- There are many support groups and associations that can provide information and support for people who are newly diagnosed with celiac disease.
- On a spiritual level, the individual can gain support and strength from prayer and meditation. Many church groups and fellowships offer counseling and support to people who are experiencing any kind of lifestyle change.
- A physician can provide advice and supervision for diet changes.
Clearing Celiac Disease Brain Fog
One of the first things that needs to be done is to clear the brain fog that is often associated with celiac disease. This is the condition where thinking and making decisions is difficult because of a muddle-headed feeling. People who are gluten intolerant often experience this.
The brain fog can be cleared by going on a strict gluten-free diet for several weeks. During this diet, it is not a good idea for the individual to experiment with new foods. This can become too confusing and overwhelming, resulting in accidents, which will set back any gains. The person needs to stick to foods that are gluten-free, safe, and familiar.
When the brain fog clears, it will be easier for the individual to concentrate on trying and/or preparing new gluten-free foods. Then she can start creating a balanced diet. This new way of eating can be an adventure, and living without brain fog is liberating.
Focusing on Known Gluten-free Foods
The person who is newly diagnosed with celiac disease needs to focus on the gluten-free foods that she can eat and not the things that she can't eat. This is a more positive approach.
The following foods are naturally gluten-free:
- All fruits and vegetables (unless they are dried or processed)
- All meat (unless it is processed)
- Eggs, milk, and aged hard cheeses
- Brown rice
- Oils that are not mixed with other ingredients
- Beans, peas, lentils, and seeds (unless they are processed with other ingredients)
- Herbs and spices (not processed with other ingredients)
- Any foods that are specifically labeled "gluten-free"
- Oats are considered gluten-free, but some gluten intolerant people cannot digest them
NOTE: Gluten is often hidden in processed food, and not necessarily listed on the label - especially in medications. When in doubt, check with the company.
A person newly diagnosed with celiac disease may find that her digestive system is very sensitive at first. She can start by eating baby food, or mushed up food in the blender, until the digestive system feels stronger. Foods such as lentil soup are nutritious, easy to make, and easy to digest.
Socializing With Celiac Disease
When the individual feels strong enough, going out to places where there will be a supportive atmosphere can help to ease feelings of isolation.
The person with celiac disease can call ahead to check out the menu - perhaps bringing along some suitable items. She can also eat a small meal before leaving home to offset the chances of being hungry around tempting food.
Adjusting to gluten intolerance often leads to a greater awareness of healthy eating, as well as greater respect for the body. It can be transformed into a very positive experience.
For easy gluten-free meal ideas see Simple Gluten-free Slow Cooker Recipes and Healthy Gluten-free Goulash Recipe.
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