Wow, what an interesting month it has been. Both my kids have had tummy problems so I decided to have their blood checked for Celiac's Disease just because it runs in the family. I basically wanted to rule it out, and didn't really think it was possible for either of them to have it. Boy was I surprised when the Dr's office called me and gave me the crazy news. It is interesting that a phone call that lasts all of 2 minutes can change your life so much. Celiac's disease sounds like he is dying, but basically it is an allergy to gluten. Which is a protein in wheat, barley, and rye. So basically everything has some form of wheat in it. Cereal, bread, pasta, chicken nuggets, creamed soups ...basically everything. I have had to start over with foods in my house. 2 months ago I wouldn't have believed that I could bake bread with out wheat flour. Who knew that you can make bread with rice flour?
It is definitely much more complicated cooking, and a little more testy. But possible. There are so many resources online, thank goodness! I couldn't have done this 20 years ago. I still don't want to do it now, but when your 4 year old can't eat anything out of a box you have to rethink your dinner strategy. Everything has to be made from scratch. There are more gluten free options at the store, but most of them are very bland and the texture is very gritty. Not to mention the cost. We are grateful that it is not a life threatening problem. It definitely has changed our lives. No more eating out with the kids. No more McDonalds trips. No more pizza on weekends. And much more planning and time spent in the Kitchen. I will always have to pack a lunch for school.
I am trying really hard not to make him feel too different at our house, and to make it so he doesn't have to ask me if he can eat something..."mom is this gluten free?" has become a common question. I want him to know our house is a safe haven for him to eat and be normal. It just requires a lot of time in the kitchen and a lot of dishes. It is a good thing I love him. Because it makes it worth it.