About
I was diagnosed in 2004 with Celiac Disease and I remember feeling so thankful to finally have a diagnosis. I had vague symptoms for most of my life, such as anemia, indigestion, restless legs, mouth sores, unusual heavy feeling in my abdomen after eating bread or pasta, occasional bloating, intermittent skin rash, brittle nails, poor night vision, and occasional tingling in my arms and legs. After I had children, my symptoms worsened. I was given a variety of diagnosis for these elusive symptoms.
Once diagnosed, I had my siblings, parents, and children screened. My mother and daughter’s results were positive. My mother had mouth sores and anemia. My daughter only presented with stomach aches, she would comment that she felt so full after she ate. They are now living a healthy gluten-free life, symptom free.
My other two children tested negative for Celiac Disease. However, they both eat gluten-free since we maintain a gluten-free household. As well, their pediatrician suggested that a gluten-free diet may be beneficial with the high prevalence of CD in our family. Although negative for CD, both children have gastrointestinal symptoms and eczema that is due to a corn sensitivity. Therefore, we eat corn-free as well. A close family member with Crohn’s Disease has also benefited from this diet and lives symptom free.
I am starting this blog with the hope that the information provided will increase the rate of diagnosis for Celiac Disease, gluten sensitivities, and food allergies. I encourage everyone to have their symptoms thoroughly investigated by their MD and specialists before implementing a therapeutic diet. Keep your MD informed about any dietary changes you are making and also the results. Of course, I would love to hear your story as well.
I have been a Registered Nurse for 20 years primarily in hospital and community settings. I have enjoyed my career and value the insight and knowledge I have gained through my patient’s experiences. My complete career experience, areas of interest, and personal experiences can be viewed at www.shellystuart.ca
I hope you enjoy this blog as much as I am enjoying writing it. I value any comments about your experiences, suggestions about the content you would like to see or how I can improve my site. I look forward to this co-active adventure!
