Living with Celiac

 Living with Celiac is not for the weak!

People don't understand how traumatizing, stressful, and hard it could be living with Celiac Disease especially when living with non-Celiac household members. Most times the immediate family is onboard with ensuring you stay healthy, but people that aren't in it with you in the beginning truly have no idea what it takes to be around you. So let's make it easier.

 

There is silent Celiac and Environmental Celiac, what is the difference, both are equally important however with silent Celiac it is not as invasive because you can still have gluten around them, eat whatever you want, touch, even kiss, and hug them and they won't experience any visible reactions whereas with environmental Celiac if they smell the gluten, yes smell it, it could cause an array of symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, skin rashes, for some even breathing problems. Most everyone would prefer to have and be around the silent Celiac however remember over time if it could turn into a more serious condition, so it is best to still be careful. There is refractory Celiac disease as well, which will be discussed at a later time.

1. So making it easier for everyone involved: 
2. Have a designated area to store gluten food items, preferably away from the kitchen.
3. Have an area to eat the foods and without touching anything first, wash your hands and face. 
4. Keep your designated eating area cleaned at all times, crumbs for an environmental Celiac could be deadly.
5. Be mindful if it is an intimate relationship please brush your teeth, it's best to have a certain time to eat your foods, that is why there will be less chances of cross contamination.
6. Allow your loved one the opportunity to provide you with gluten free replacements that way everyone can enjoy each other and not feel left out.

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Author: Stephanie Lanier

Bring Celiac Awareness