One Year Reflections

I was reading an article in one of my gluten free magazines the other day. The article said that it takes about a year to really get comfortable with the gluten free lifestyle. I found myself nodding my head in total agreement. It was a year ago that I began my own gf journey. I have learned so much about this new lifestyle, about myself, and have come to the conclusion that I am absolutely thrilled to be gluten intolerant.

Let me rephrase that a little. I'm happy that I'm gluten intolerant and KNOW that I am. I'm so glad that I've spent this last year reading, studying, and experimenting in the kitchen. I'm thankful that I can't run through the fast food drive-thru and order a burger on white bread and their French fries because the fries are cooked in the same oil as breaded items. Being gluten intolerant has forced me to think outside the box when it comes to food. My physical and mental health are greatly improved because of how I have to eat.

I'm always thinking of what I can substitute in place of bread. Instead of peanut butter on bread, I'll have it on celery. Instead of wrapping tuna salad between bread, I'll use Romaine lettuce for a crunchy wrap. I love fresh fruit for dessert, rather than any baked good.

The ironic thing is, I've spent this past year looking for a good gluten free bread, and finally found Udi's bread. It is fantastic! But I've gotten so used to going without bread, that I don't have to have it all the time anymore.

So yes, I'm very happy to be gluten intolerant. I don't have to take any pills, I don't have to have shots, or any other sort of therapy. I stay gluten free and that has led me to a healthier life and a renewed sense of well-being. I feel better than I ever realized a person could feel. I look forward to the next year to see what more I'll learn, and how much I can help others begin their own gluten free journey.