If you’re new to my blog I wanted to take a minute to introduce myself! My pen name is Skye and I’m the anonymous blogger behind Your Celiac Guide as well as Gluten Free With ADHD!
Why a Pen Name?
I chose to write under a pen name because I’m a full-time teacher! While I share all about my gluten-free lifestyle with my students I do not want them to see where I am eating (and drinking!) in my private life. Eventually, when I leave teaching I plan on transitioning to using my real name!
Do I Have Celiac Disease?
That’s a great question and the answer is – probably?
I suffered from stomach issues for many years without a clear diagnosis. Eventually one of the blood tests taken for celiac disease came back positive. However, according to my doctor, that particular blood test is not a reliable marker for celiac disease.
But at that point, I was so desperate for relief that I immediately went gluten-free. Guess what? It worked. All my pain and discomfort were gone within a week! I was so incredibly relieved and from that point on I lived a 100% gluten-free lifestyle.
I should have pushed for more testing at the time, but I didn’t think to do that. Eventually, I did take the genetic test for celiac disease. According to this result, I’m at a high risk for developing celiac disease.
Since going gluten-free I have eaten gluten both intentionally and accidentally on a few occasions. At first, it was intentional to see if I truly needed to go gluten-free. More recently, I was accidentally glutened by trusting a gluten-free beer that was actually gluten-removed.
I have a major reaction to gluten both physically and mentally. My symptoms start within an hour or two and can last for 1-4 days. My symptoms range from brain fog to extreme stomach discomfort. My “favorite” symptom is what makes me realize I’ve been glutened – I usually can’t lift my left arm above my shoulder after I’ve been glutened. YUP! According to Reddit (I know not the best for medical advice but I still think it’s a great resource) it’s because gluten causes inflammation in my shoulder which I previously injured while working out.
Why Make a Blog?
I struggled with my mental health for most of my life. When I began to travel I found so much joy in life which greatly benefitted my mental health.
When I struggled to come to terms with a possible celiac diagnosis I was terrified I would never be able to travel again. But that was not the case!
I travel all the time living a 100% gluten-free lifestyle and it is incredible!
I want to help inspire and encourage others to travel safely while living gluten-free. I also want to to use my platform to advocate for mental health awareness within the gluten-free community.
Contact Me:
If you want to get to know me or have any questions you can send me an email at yourceliacguide@gmail.com !