College is a time to indulge in ramen noodles, Whataburger, fries at midnight and cheap foods. For me however, it is for discovering how to find fast, easy cheap foods that are ALL gluten free. My senior year of high school I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. Fortunately I was lucky to have very few symptoms of Celiac Disease, but unfortunately I struggled to make others understand the seriousness of my diagnosis.
Thinking of my future as a student I was very concerned. Questions plagued my mind, "How would I go out to eat with others? What about going on dates, celebrating birthdays with cheesecake or girls night out? Could I eat confidently at others homes? How do I even cook?" I quickly learned how amazing it is to actually have Celiac "Disease" in college. It has taught me more about nutrition, improved my quality of life, helped me understand gut disorders and even helped me make some amazing dishes of cuisine. Being diagnosed was difficult and confusing at first, but now I know why I was.
Celiac Disease is beyond myself, others struggle with it too. I am not a dietitian but I do my research. I believe I was diagnosed to help those fight the food temptation, celiacs and non-celiac's alike. I have been able to encourage others to eat healthier and more balanced diets. (Even though gluten free isn't always healthier) I have been able to engage in conversations with others who have the same disease, share recipes and laugh about some of the struggles. Learning to educate others on the disease was tedious at first but now it is a passion. I enjoy answering the tough questions regarding the disease and some of the false beliefs. I even try to incorporate some of the healthy choices I have made to inspire others to take hold of their eating habits. I want to enable others to seek advice on their health. Our health seeps into every aspect of our lives whether we know it or not. College gives me the perfect platform to speak to others about these hardships.
Celiac Disease may of closed the door to pizza, pasta, cake and eating out, but it has opened the door to so much more. If you are struggling with Celiac Disease I have one question for you. Why were you diagnosed? I believe I was diagnosed to encourage, educate and enable others. Think of your purpose and hold on to that. To those of you who do not have celiac disease but want to take hold of your health, keep up with me and read on. There is always so much more to learn!
Sincerely,
A College Celiac
PS. SNEAK PEAK Up next... "A No Symptom College Celiac"
