Turkey, but Hold the Anxiety

LeAnn Gentry is a guest blogger discussing her struggles managing autoimmune food limitations, especially during the holidays.

When I was 7, I was diagnosed as a Type 1 Diabetic. There was a steep learning curve, but I had been sick for a long time with no answers and there was a relief that came with my new disease. My parents removed all sugary items from the house and began carefully measuring my meals to determine exact carbohydrates to match with my insulin needs. My mom also stocked up on sugar free treats, but anyone who has too many sugar free gummy bears can tell you, they can have scary GI ramifications.

Fast forward to Christmas Eve 2018 when I received an email from my doctor that read: your test results show that you have Celiac Disease. You need to stop eating gluten. We will talk in a couple of days at your appointment. 

I was in disbelief. Another food disease? I quickly learned that Celiac came with an entirely different level of restrictions. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, “A gluten-free diet is the only treatment if you’ve been diagnosed with Celiac disease. You’ll have to avoid gluten for the rest of your life. Even the slightest amount will trigger an immune system reaction that can damage your small intestine. Eating a gluten-free diet requires a new approach to food.”

I have amazing friends and family who offer to tweak meals for me, but the number of things that go into creating celiac-safe, gluten free food are numerous. I began telling people straight out, please do not make anything for me, I will bring my own food. This eliminated any burden on them and any guilt I may have from declining food that was prepared with me in mind, but still might get me sick.

Turns out, it’s pretty hard to create a mobile Thanksgiving feast for one. So, for the last several years I’ve hosted Thanksgiving. This way I can protect myself and create a meal that everyone can enjoy. I am so thankful for the abundance of resources and ingredients that are available to me in Portland. I am not joking when I tell you people actually vacation here to enjoy our gluten free offerings!

My health has taken me on a journey that is unique, but I believe the lessons I’ve learned can apply to many. 

• Set clear expectations
  I let people know my eating plan: I’m bringing my own, I will not be eating sugar tonight, because I had a treat earlier, etc.
• Create options for yourself that don’t leave you feeling deprived/left out
  I create safe versions of what others are eating or only have a manageable amount of sugar.
• Offer alternatives that suit your needs
  I host events or suggest venues that can accommodate my dietary needs.

I am not going to sugar coat it (pun intended), advocating for yourself is scary. But, only you can set the standard for how you should be treated. If you prioritize your needs, it will be easier for those around you to do so too.