02/05/2026
May is Celiac Awareness Month 💚
Two years ago I was diagnosed with coeliac disease, and honestly, it changed my whole life.
What looked like “just food” to other people suddenly became something I had to think about every single day. Reading every label, checking ingredients, asking questions when eating out, worrying about cross contamination, planning meals in advance, and learning that something as small as crumbs can make me ill.
I’m usually “that difficult one” when it comes to eating out, the one who has to ask questions, check menus, and make sure somewhere is safe to eat. But thankfully I have amazing friends and family who are always understanding and who check I’m okay to eat somewhere before we even book it. That kind of support means more than people realise.
It’s not a choice, trend, or preference. Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disease where gluten causes damage to the small intestine.
At first it felt overwhelming. Food had always been simple, and suddenly it wasn’t. But over time I’ve learned how to adapt, how to fuel my body properly again, and how to take control of my health.
Being diagnosed gave me answers, but it also meant rebuilding my relationship with food and changing habits I’d had my whole life.
If you know someone with coeliac disease, patience and understanding go a long way. We’re not being difficult, we’re protecting our health.
To anyone newly diagnosed it does get easier. 💚
FitnessJourney HealthAwareness
