Family, Friends, Spouse and Lifestyle Changes

This week has been rough.  I'm not sure what made this week harder than the previous four, but I have been really down about my Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) diagnosis.  Food has really been a challenge this week.  I was discouraged watching people enjoy and listening to people talk about foods I really like, but can't eat anymore. Examples: Cinnabons, chocolate croissants, veggie burgers, bagels, Starbucks Caramel Macchiato...

I know everyday gets better and easier, and I'm certainly thankful that I have a diagnosis and can make good food choices so I don't get sick.  But, giving up bready, delicious treats is not easy!!!

Family

I do have to say that my family has been awesome.  My parents have gone out of their way to find gluten free snacks for me, including some Parmesan crisps since I'm such a cheese hound.  They are constantly on the lookout for things I can eat and are being supportive and understanding that I am in the middle of a diet and lifestyle change.

Husband 

My husband... is the best.  He came home from work today with a whole bunch of new gluten free options that he found at the grocery store.  He made me a little cheese platter with rice crisp crackers and bought me my new favorite gluten free cookies.

I hit the husband jackpot.  He's been really supportive throughout my "down" moments.  He's offered to not eat foods I can't eat, when I'm feeling particularly down.  He looks up restaurants with gluten free options so we can go out and I don't feel like a burden or like I can't go anywhere new.  And he eats gluten free foods with me so I don't feel like a big weirdo.  :)

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes are hard, whether you're doing them because of medical reasons or because you're wanting to better yourself.  Having supportive family, friends and significant others is important.  No one wants to feel alone.  Make sure to support other people you know who are taking on a challenge, a marathon, a new hobby, a new diet, whatever.  Being other people's champions helps them conquer the stumbling blocks and really be successful.

 This guy always makes me smile!