Suddenly I am Gluten Free... what now?

Being diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or coeliac disease can feel daunting and overwhelming at first. The idea of cutting out gluten—an ingredient in many foods—might seem nearly impossible. But the good news is that there are more gluten-free options than ever before.

Nowadays, grocery shops have whole sections filled with gluten-free products, like bread, pasta, snacks, and desserts. Many brands are working hard to make tasty and good-quality gluten-free foods (a lot has changed in the last 30 years). Restaurants are also following suit and offering more gluten-free menus, so eating out can still be enjoyable for pizza and pasta lovers.

If you enjoy cooking, making gluten-free meals at home can be a great option too. There are lots of alternative flours, like almond, coconut, and rice flour, that let you re-create your favourite dishes. From pizza to cakes, you can still enjoy the foods you love with some simple swaps.

I was diagnosed with IBS in 2012, and over the past 12 years, I’ve tried many products and learned how to make ‘normal’ foods in 'gluten-free versions'.

Life ain't so bad after all.

Always check with a doctor or nutritionist for advice, as some foods on the market that advertised as gluten free can still contain traces of gluten, which might cause issues for many people. Be sure to read food labels carefully!