My Journey with Celiac Disease: From Diagnosis to Empowering Others
Living with celiac disease is a journey I never expected to take, but it has shaped the very fabric of who I am. In 2017, my life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with this autoimmune condition. What began as a confusing mix of unexplained symptoms evolved into a transformative experience—one that not only changed my health but also redefined my purpose.
A Love for Food, Interrupted
I grew up in a picturesque agricultural town nestled in the heart of Wine Country, California. My childhood was filled with the aromas of freshly baked bread, the sound of laughter echoing from family gatherings, and the warmth of my mother’s kitchen. Food wasn’t just sustenance—it was art, connection, and love. My parents, ever the gracious entertainers, hosted dinner parties with diverse and mouthwatering menus.
As a little girl, I was my mom’s shadow in the kitchen, carefully observing her every move. By the time I reached high school, my passion for cooking had blossomed into something more. When our new campus unveiled a new culinary arts program, I was the first to sign up. There I was introduced to the precision and discipline of culinary technique—mincing, dicing, and julienning my way into a world that felt like home. My evenings were spent soaking in the wisdom of Ina Garten, Giada De Laurentiis, and Martha Stewart, dreaming of the meals I could create.
But as much as I loved food, I had no idea that one day it would become the very thing I’d have to fight to enjoy again.
The Storm Before the Diagnosis
The List: This was the list I had with me to discuss with my doctor. I didn’t realize that gluten was also effecting my mental health. Whats not listed was depression, irritability and anxiety.
Fast forward to my early 30’s. My life should have been everything I’d dreamed of—married to a wonderful husband, raising two beautiful children in a cozy home in the San Francisco Bay Area. But behind the scenes, I was struggling.
Each morning felt like dragging myself through quicksand. Chronic fatigue weighed down my every step, and irritability crept into moments that should have been joyful. My digestive system was in constant turmoil, and unexplained aches haunted my body. Even my mind felt clouded, as if someone had dimmed the lights in my brain.
I remember sitting in my doctor’s office with a list of over ten symptoms, desperate for answers. It was as if my body was waving a white flag, begging me to listen. My doctor ordered blood work and an endoscopy—a procedure that felt both invasive and hopeful, as if it might finally unlock the mystery of my health.
When the results came back, the answer was clear: Celiac Disease.
The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Hearing those words was a moment of both relief and dread. Relief, because I finally had an explanation for the years of discomfort and confusion. Dread, because the solution—eliminating gluten entirely—felt like an insurmountable challenge.
Gluten, the protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, was woven into the fabric of my life. From the crusty loaves of bread I once baked with pride to the pasta dishes that had become family favorites, gluten was everywhere. Cleaning out my pantry felt like saying goodbye to an old friend. I replaced pots, pans, and utensils, scrubbing away any trace of contamination.
The transition was overwhelming, and at times it felt like I was losing a part of myself. But I was determined. I dove headfirst into learning everything I could about gluten-free living. I read labels with the intensity of a detective and scoured the internet for safe recipes.
Life After Gluten
The changes didn’t happen overnight, but they were undeniable. Slowly, the dark cloud that had hung over my life began to lift. The chronic fatigue that had drained my energy disappeared, replaced by a vitality I hadn’t felt in years. My digestive issues eased, and even my mood improved. It was as if my body was finally able to breathe again.
There were moments of joy I hadn’t expected—like discovering new gluten-free recipes that my whole family loved or finding restaurants that catered to my needs. Every small victory felt like a step toward reclaiming my life.
From Personal Struggle to Purpose
My diagnosis was more than just a turning point for my health; it was a call to action. In 2022, I channeled my experience into creating Health V Nutrition Consulting, a space dedicated to helping others navigate the challenges of celiac disease.
I know how isolating and overwhelming a diagnosis can feel. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to provide the resources, tools, and support that I wish I had during my journey. Through my online self-guided courses, I aim to empower individuals to take control of their health and embrace a gluten-free lifestyle with confidence.
Supporting Your Journey
If you’re newly diagnosed or still navigating the early stages of your journey, I want you to know that you’re not alone. I’ve been where you are—staring at a pantry full of gluten-filled products, wondering where to even begin. That’s why I created the Complete Guide to Celiac Disease Diagnosis: Signs, Tests, and Next Steps. This resource breaks down everything you need to know, from understanding your diagnosis to taking actionable steps toward healing.
Celiac disease isn’t just about avoiding gluten—it’s about reclaiming your life and rediscovering how good it can feel to truly thrive.
Final Thoughts
Your diagnosis is not the end of your story—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. Whether you’re just starting your gluten-free journey or looking for ways to refine your lifestyle, I’m here to help.
Through my newsletter, The Celiac Wellness Monthly, blog posts, and social media, I aim to provide the knowledge and support you need to thrive. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact me through my Contact Page or connect with me on Instagram (@healthv_nc), where I share daily tips and inspiration for living well with celiac disease. Together, we can navigate this journey and create a healthier, happier future.