I will be 73 years of age this year. I became aware that my toilet habits had changed. We are told to take action and consult our Doctor to investigate changes in our bodily habits. I also had tummy cramps and headaches every morning. The tummy issues were uncomfortable, and I hated the headaches, but I put them down to ageing. I made an appointment with my GP and, as advised, I nervously lined up for a colonoscopy and a gastroscopy. I was surprised but greatly relieved when the results came in and I was diagnosed coeliac. This was a reason to celebrate after being fearful that I might have something more sinister.

Since my diagnosis, I have adhered strictly to a gluten-free diet as I want to heal the damage internally and minimise the risk of developing any other autoimmune conditions. The changes have been relatively easy because of the wide range of gluten-free products available nowadays compared to by gone years. I have found some wonderful gluten-free cookbooks and recipes on the internet are plentiful. I find others are eagerly willing to share their favourites, and having joined Coeliac New Zealand. I look forward to each issue of the great ‘Coeliac Link’ magazine, which is full of helpful information.

Recently, we travelled to Korea for our son’s wedding which I was afraid would be a real challenge. Being coeliac was no hindrance at all as my husband kindly printed and laminated a small wallet-sized info card in Korean explaining in short my dietary limitations, and I was able to show it at hotels, restaurants and coffee shops we chose to go to as we travelled. Because I carry the gene I have been advised by my GP to encourage my wider family members to be mindful of signs and symptoms in our children and grandchildren and get them checked every five years for this condition. A year down the track, my follow-up tests have all improved immensely.

I feel so fortunate that our villi grow back, and I am happy to report that I sleep better and have so much more energy. The tummy cramps and the headaches are a thing of the past, and without even trying, the added bonus is that both my husband and I have trimmed down on our gluten-free diet. He is a great encourager and is happily on board. Bread and cakes have become less appealing as our tastes have adjusted and developed, favouring healthy options with less processed food. I don’t miss the sweet treats and carbs at all really, now that I have adopted a restorative mindset.

Article provided by Andrea Thomson