Whether it is due to a diagnosis of celiac disease, a gluten sensitivity, or for just feeling better overall – you’ve begun a gluten free diet. You’ve taken the first step on your marathon to better health. So, now what? What’s next? Here’s 5 tips to help you get over gluten as you start your gluten free journey.
- Say goodbye to gluten for good. Whether you’re eating gluten free to treat your celiac disease, or because of a gluten sensitivity, eating a little bit of gluten can do a lot of damage. You need to remove all the gluten from your diet so that your gut has a chance to heal. Even small amounts can cause long-term damage.
- Kick gluten to the curb. Since a little gluten can do a lot of damage, it is important to be sure that you’ve completely removed it from your kitchen. Besides all the foods that contain gluten (crackers, pasta, cereals), you also need to look at things like mixing bowls, wooden spoons, plastic bowls, toasters, etc. These items all have surfaces that can trap gluten. If you can’t clean it thoroughly, it is best to replace it.
- Talk to a dietician or nutritionist. A dietician or nutritionist that is knowledgeable about the gluten free diet can help steer you in the right direction. They can also recommend what foods you should eat to help heal your gut faster.
- Find a support group. Connect with others in your area that share the same diet restrictions you do. I am sure they would be more than happy to answer any questions you have, like which restaurants serve safe gluten free food, how to deal with the local schools, and which stores carry your favorite Udi’s Gluten Free products.
- Celebrate! There will be many times when you will feel depressed about the end of your gluten-eating days, it’s completely normal to feel sorrow and anger over any loss or drastic change. There will be hard days, but slowly it will get easier, and you’ll realize how much better you feel without gluten in your life anymore. No more stomach pains and bloating. No more joint pain or migraines. Whatever your symptoms were, they will become less and less as you give your gut time to heal. Celebrate! You’re so much better off without gluten in your life.
What are YOUR tips for those new to a gluten free lifestyle?
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Udi’s Gluten Free. The opinions and text are all mine.
