Living with Celiac Disease?
Let's talk about something that’s pretty personal to myself & many of us: Living with Celiac Disease.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed, you already understand that it can be tough, especially when it comes to food.
I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease in 2009.
But I was feeling physically unwell after eating certain foods long before i was diagnosed.
As anyone with Celiac knows, it is a genetic condition that can go undiagnosed for years. I am here to share with you my experience of living with it; how I manage food, lifestyle and training so it doesn’t stop me enjoying life to the full. I’m not a doctor, the information discussed here is purely me sharing my experiences with you, in the hope it might help.
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac is an autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley and rye) triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestines.
This can lead to problems like nutrient deficiencies, digestive issues, skin problems (rashes) headaches and further medical intervention.
Speaking from real life experience, these symptoms can be avoided, the majority of the time, through choice of food, drink and knowing what to avoid, and leading a healthy, active lifestyle.
How knowing what’s in your food can help…
When it comes to managing Celiac Disease, simplicity is key.
Think of foods that come straight from the earth or farm: fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, unprocessed meats and fish.
These types of foods are not only easier on your body but also packed with nutrients to support your overall health and immune system.
The less processed the food, the better. Eating this way doesn’t just benefit those with Celiac; it’s a lifestyle for anyone looking to feel better physically and mentally.
The number one advice I can give you is to NOT think of it as a diet but avoid foods with no added preservatives / extra ingredients that the body doesn’t need.
Most pre-pared sauces for example contain wheat to thicken them. Have the tasty sauce but make it from scratch.
Some alcohol such as beer & spirits is fermented over wheat barley and rye. There are gluten free alternatives or choose a beverage fermented in other ways.
People with Celiac disease often experience lactose intolerance as a secondary symptom because the damage to their gut lining from gluten can impair the body’s ability to produce the enzyme needed to digest lactose (milk sugar), causing symptoms like bloating and diarrhea; however, this lactose intolerance usually improves once they follow a gluten-free diet and their gut heals.
Martial Arts, Training & Celiac
In my life, physical fitness plays a huge role in living well with Celiac Disease. Regular training helps boost my energy levels, maintain my healthy weight and longevity and improves my mood. Training can definitely sometimes feel like a challenge when you’re dealing with autoimmune disease, but the more you stick with it, the better you’ll feel.
Of course, we always encourage everyone to listen to their bodies. Some days you might feel a bit out of kilter and that’s totally fine. There have been times where I’ve listened to my body.
Here you have two choices, take a day off (rest and recover) go to class or the gym and move at your own pace and know that you’re in a supportive space. Both are absolutely fine.
I hope this blog helps and if you need any further advice, or advice on different allergies, conditions, please contact me.
Dont Quit – Keep on training and eating right!
