I used to be self-conscious about my celiac disease which was the main reason I tried to hide it from everyone. Now, I hide it cause I'm tired of hearing the same questions and statements over and over ever since the gluten-free diet fad.

1. "How do you live?"

Ummm... just like you? Not being able to have bread, Cheez-its, and cookies is actually a blessing in disguise. Growing up, I've never really enjoyed many junk foods because I was never able to try them which I am so thankful for now.

2. "What CAN you eat?"

This is the one question I am SO DONE being asked. Do you really want me to list the thousands of foods I can eat? You're guaranteed an eye roll with this question.

3. "I would die if I couldn't have gluten."

No, you wouldn't.

4. "Just take the *insert gluten-containing food* off."

No. This is not how it works. Those of us who have celiac will still get sick if we just take the croutons off our salad. We hate to be that customer at restaurants but our order has to be completely remade if it comes in contact with gluten.

4. "My sister's friend's cousin's dog has Celiac too."

I really don't care if someone your friend knows has celiac or a gluten allergy especially when EVERYONE I meet tells me the same thing. It has nothing to do with me and doesn't help this conversation in any way. Also, don't know if it's possible for dogs to have Celiac.

5. "Would you die if you ate gluten?"

I would so much rather you ask, "what happens when you eat gluten?" People with Celiac disease will have major life-threatening complications if they don't follow the strict gluten-free diet. However, asking if someone will die is kind of rude.

6. "I choose not to eat gluten."

WHY?! I would give anything to get a donut that doesn't fall apart in my hands or to even order a pizza from Dominos. I can't stand when people follow the gluten-free diet when they don't need to. It's not helping them in any way.

7. "Just get a salad."

This one has died down over the years because those who know me, know I HATE salads. However, it is really annoying when people assume you'll be fine with just having a salad for dinner.

8. "I'm so sorry."

There's no reason to be sorry. This is a part of me that I've learned to not only live with but to love. It makes me special and unique and I wouldn't have it any other way...