Celiac Disease and Gluten-Free Forum (Home)

Celiac Disease and Gluten-Free Forum (Home) > Celiac Disease and Gluten-Free Forum > Celiac Disease - Friends and Loved Ones of Celiacs

bignate

Apr 20 2004, 04:06 PM

Hello all! I just joined today.

My girlfried was diagnosed last week and we've had some stressful times since then. I have been reading furiously and reading labels and surfing the net. I bought a gluten-free cookbook and printed out a lot of recipes on-line. I just got back from the health food store and bought a bunch of gluten-free foods for her.

My only grumble is (and I am just posting to vent/sympathize )...she has done nothing about it yet. She *is* reading labels and really just eating fruit right now...but mostly she is complaining about getting screwed with this disease. Not that I blame her. I would be displeased to say the least. And I am trying to be supportive but it would be a lot easier if she could pitch in and help with this huge lifestyle adjustment we are making. I am not gluten-free except when we are together, but she doesn't even know half the things she needs to know nor does it seem like the term "trace-amounts" is sinking in. I hope this is just an initial shock phase and she comes around to understand the severity of her disease...I mean god, she has been so sick for so long and now when we can finally "fix" it, she has crawled into an irritable depression. I can only assume she will feel a lot better when I get all the gluten out of her.

Ok I feel better now...time to make gluten-free brownies for TV nite tomorrow.

Take care everyone!

tarnalberry

Apr 20 2004, 06:05 PM

Well, part of the problem may be that, as Americans (which I'm assuming is true for your girlfriend) or really almost any modern country, we often think that we should be able to do whatever we want (regardless if it is good or bad) and a pill or shot should be able to fix us. There's no pill or shot for this. There's no "doing what I want to, regardless if it's good or bad" without suffering. There's no more being like the other 99.5% of the population. You can NEVER ever have a regular sandwhich again. That basket of bread served at the beginning of a italian restaurant dinner with the tasty garlic oil and balsamic vinegar? Nope, don't even think about it. EVER again.

It can get depressing to realize that you can't even lick an envelope anymore. Someone else wrote that the first three months are often an adjustment period. And I think it's true. Even though I'm a hopeless (and annoying! ;-) ) optomist, and even though I always cook from home from scratch (and am a very adaptable cook), I was well accustomed to reading the label on anything I couldn't make at home, and it was seemingly simple for me to make the transition, I was still frustrated and a bit upset at times. I still get frustrated at the lack of convenience. (That's why I'm spending $100 on a food dehydrator!)

I don't want to say "You can't know how it feels to have what amounts to a life-sentence since you don't have one", but... well... there's something to be said for thinking about it, and the fact that some people deal better (in the short term, particularly) with these sorts of things than others. I think you'll find that most people diagnosed with a chronic disease go through a period of depression and almost rebellion (even if they don't follow through).

I'm sure you'll continue to be patient with her, and despite all I've said, I think it's FABULOUS that you are so supportive. I do hope she comes around soon.

hsd1203

Apr 20 2004, 09:12 PM

first of all, what a lucky girl to have someone like you to help take care of her right now, and to have had a doctor who was on the ball. next...

this is a HUGE adjustment, give her some time, expect to have to pick up some of the slack in the relationship right now, including being the one who chooses what's for dinner. bring tissues to the grocery store and out to eat, but also expect lightbulb type positive moments about this from her at random times. know that most likely things will get better once she feels better, but will go in cycles, especially if this diagnosis is out of the blue for her. I grew up with a celiac mom and always knew I could end up with this and am still struggling with the whole thing after about 4 months gluten-free. it is a process.

also, although I always thought I pretty much knew how much it would stink to have this (sympathizing with my mom), once I was diagnosed, I realized what I thought was nothing compared to how much it actually does stink to have this. it has a huge impact on the way you think about a great many everyday things (as I'm sure you're starting to realize) and while totally do-able, can seem oevrwhelming at times (especially to someone who is still feeling icky or has just screwed up... intentionally or accidentally). that said, hopefully soon she'll start feeling so much better that she'll realize that the extra effort of a gluten-free diet / lifestyle really is worth it.

good luck, best wishes, and happy gluten-free baking

debmidge

Apr 21 2004, 02:32 AM

Dear Bignate:

I was in your shoes over 25 years ago. But we didn't know my husband (future husband had celiac - Drs. said it was IBS, etc.). My husband had to go on a diet for the IBS and he accepted it. In Oct 03 we figured his IBS took another notch down & went to new Dr. who diagnosed celiac disease. Well, 25 years or so later we have a new situation to come to grips with. He still can't have the food he shunned from the IBS disease (fruits, vegetables, fried foods, acidy foods, tomato) - now add the new "no-no's" of wheat, oats, barley, rye.

As the mate, I can say that the hardest part is watching the one you love go through a greiving process. The life they once knew died. If the celiac has a hard uphill climb due to villi damage, then that greiving will probably be lengthened. In my husband's case, his body has to undo a lot of damage.

Additionally, I am sure your girlfriend has the "gluten depression" - from what the gastro told me, this is a depression that celiacs have due to the chemistry from ingesting gluten and should go away once she is in full swing on the diet. But I can tell you from my experience with my husband that if there's been an underlying depression you could be dealing with 2 separate sources of depression. As you mentioned, she's allowing herself traces of gluten - this could be fueling the gluten depression.

In my opinion she's correct when she says she was screwed with this disease, but who in life by the time they are 25-30 have something wrong with them in another way? Sooner or later most of us gets screwed by some disease or another.
Some people have to watch their sugar/carb intake due to diabetes, another has cholesterol issues, some have orthopaedic problems like disk damage or bad knees or inability to have children or something. With celiac disease, in my opinion, the celiac has the ability to control the situation through diet. Many others are not given this option or for example the case of a diabetic, they still might be getting high sugar levels even when following their diet. I am sure that in all these cases, the person with the health problem grieves for some time & feels that life is passing them by. I supppose that it'll take some time for her to come to terms with her new life. Heck, I'm still getting used to it all and I am greiving for him as being diagnosed celiac disease at this period in his life was too much for him to take.

Your girlfriend is the one who must call the shots on when she is ready to go 100% gluten free. It's almost like a smoker - no one else can stop them from smoking.

Lastly, she's very lucky to have someone sticking by her in her time of need. There's no other way for me to say that.

Best wishes,

Deb
4/21/04

bignate

Apr 21 2004, 11:46 AM

Wow - thanks everybody!

We are actually feeling a little better today. I made some gluten-free stuffing out of rice bread and baked gluten-free brownies. She had some veggies and such for lunch with the above and I have a really big dinner planned. She seems happier already.

I hope I didn't come off sounding like I was mad at her. I guess I just want her to be serious about this and she is not entirely ready. But again - what a difference a day makes she was actually laughing a little bit when I told her "no more something or other"...it was a tired laugh, but I'll take it!

However - thank you all for your posts, you have all been very nice.

jen-schall

Apr 21 2004, 06:28 PM

I don't think you came off as sounding angry at all, just concerned.
I just want to say good for you for being so supportive about this! so many people just go straight into denial and stay there. how wonderful that you two have this relationship. yay.
it does sound like she is just the shock phase you mentioned. it’s only natural to proceed through these things in stages, just like grief. she'll have to get used to first, and be mad and feel like life isn't fair, etc etc before she'll one day think, wow, great, I finally know what the matter is and what to do about it! I can finally feel better! pow!!
your support will make a big difference – that’s so great. also, as she starts to get it out of her diet, she is going to be amazed at how much better she feels. tell her to get online and google “Celiac” and “gluten” and familiarize herself with the disease and its people! I highly recommend seeing a nutritionist for help in reinventing an entire diet, and even a therapist, at least for a few sessions, is really super helpful.
for me, those were the most helpful thing. that, and stocking up on gluten-free cookies. good luck!

sweetie101282

Apr 22 2004, 04:44 PM

Hey bignate
First off I think its awesome that you're stepping up for her like this. It helps so much when you get diagnosed with this disease to have people around you who want to help with the transition. My mom was that person for me - a lady at our health food store had her buy me the book "Against the Grain" by Jax Lowell. Its an older book, probably published around '94, but Jax has an awesome way of snapping someone out of their depression about celiac disease and making them proactive. I don't know if this will help your girlfriend, but I know I felt 10x more prepared to make the transition after reading it. Good luck to the both of you! And feel free to vent...I think most of us have had our rantings posted here a few times..its okay!

-amy

bignate

Apr 22 2004, 05:23 PM

Thanks sweetie and jen.

I am really getting into this I just baked a loaf of bread and I had never done that before (gluten-free or otherwise). It looks and smells soooo good. She is doing a little better. She had a really decent stomach today. She had her usual upset but not as bad. We were really excited that this is working already. We have been prepared for the worst since the dx and this is soooo great!!!! Of course we talked about the long road ahead but a little milestone is what we needed right now and we are very happy. In fact she is at her house hanging out with friends tonite. She has cancelled so many gatheriings because she has felt so awful I am really glad to see her doing so well.

Thanks to everyone who has been so kind to me during this very emotional and stressful time.

bignate

Sara Lydia

Jun 25 2004, 12:16 PM

You are a great guy for sticking to this and doing all this work for her... she is going to really need you... because sorry to inform you, its long from over. You stated that she hasnt done much about the "cause" but complains about her fate.

Thats natural... and it will never end. She may accept it, but you have shown her guiding support unconditionally so she feels comfortable going to you with her feelings.

in the same token, and coming from a younger, female Celiac as well... I should warn her [or relay it through you] that the more she makes herself a victim, the harder it will be to move forward, the longer it will take to heal, the less time she has to decrease chances of other chronic or fatal diseases and the MORE prone she will be to "cheating". A 'victim' usually doesnt have many freinds, my mother always said. But also... a victim thinks like a victim: negatively. And the more negative a Celiac is, the more prone they are the negatives of the disease.

the flu, fatigue, cheating [eating gluten], weight loss, weight gain, hypo thyroid disease, chron's disease, skin disorders, mental disorders, depression, miscarraige, malnutrition, sleeping disorders, allergies, ulcers, stomache cancer, siezures, headaches....all because of stress and not taking care of the disease. any common cold or sinus infection could end her in the hospital with pneumonia.

She has to take charge of her lifestyle... its good to have you, but she cannot depend on you for everything. When youre not around, its very unhealthy that she just eat fruit. Those arent her only options.

Hope this has helped. I used to be your girlfriend... i truly know.

Sara

Coulter

Jun 25 2004, 02:31 PM

Some foods...just a list I always post for newbies...maybe you can get something out of it....

- Store-bought Cookies: try Pamela's Products -- the BEST cookies. The lemon shortbread are decent, but some people find them too strong a lemony taste. However, try the Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chunk Cookies. They are AMAZING!!! Even including regular cookies, they are the best store-bought I've ever had.

- Homemade Cookies: if you have 15 minutes to spare, make peanut butter cookies. Very good...even my aunt who hates PB liked them. Preparation time is about five minutes and the recipe calls for 10 min. baking -- it might take 15. All you need is 2 cups of PB (Skippy or Jif), 2 cups of sugar, and 1 egg (this is also good because there aren't any weird gluten-free flours and stuff...where do you buy those things, anyway? I don't like to cook, and I surely don't like to cook something that requires six different types of flour...it's ridiculous and I like simplicity if I am even going to bother cooking something...I don't mind making basic things, but now 6-flour-cookies that take three hours to make and three minutes to eat... ).

- Fruits/Vegetables/Meat: I eat so much more fruit now...apples, bannanas, strawberries, blueberries, canned mandarine oranges, canned peaches, etc. There are, of course, meats: chicken, steak, pork, hamburgers, etc....no fresh meat is excluded...but I often forget about fish, which are, too, gluten-free.

- Bread: People will say Knikinick or however it's spelled is great, but I've found Ener-G to be a bread that tastes astoundingly similar to regular gluten-filled white bread...that's what I use...you make your pick...go with me or the majority!

- Pizza: probably thought you'd never have that again, right? Get Chebe (you can only get it online), but buy the bread mix, not the pizza crust (the bread mix turns out better). Follow the instructions, mush it out into a round "thing", bake as instructed, and then add sauce (Classico is good and the only kind that I know to be gluten-free....but expensive), and gluten-free cheese. It's terriffic. By the way, you can get the Chebe at http://www.chebe.com. Try it...the shipping is free and once you realize that you like it, you can buy it in bulk and get discounts. Please!!!! If you take ANY OF MY ADVICE FROM THIS POST....TRY THE CHEBE!!!

- Miscellaneous: Raisins, Quaker Rice Cakes, most soft drinks are gluten-free including all kinds (diet, caffeine free, etc.) of Coke, Sprite, Sunkist, Pepsi, etc. As long as you stick with the brand-name companies (not the Supermarket Colas and be careful with Root Beers). There are many gluten-free candies...I actually made a post under the "Teenagers Only Section" for gluten-free candies...check there for the complete list that Gf4Life provided...actually, I'll copy it below:

QUOTE

Hi Coulter,

I have a list of mainstream gluten-free and milk free candies that I use when shopping for candy for my kids. I got it from the GFCF Diet Support Group for Autistic kids and they are very strick when it comes to putting products in their booklet each year. I know that Dextrin is one of their ingredients that is avoided, so these should be safe. Still read all the labels, since manufacturers change their formulas far too often:

Nestle: Sweet Tarts, Spree Chewy Candy, Regular Spree Candy

Farley gummy bears

Willy Wonka: Gobstoppers, Bottle Caps, Pixy Stix, Nerds, Runts

Mike & Ike: Zours, Jelly Beans, Hot Tamales

Starburst Fruit Chews (NOT Starburst fruit twists!)

Necco: Necco Wafers, Sweethearts, Conversation hearts (Valentines), Necco Candy Eggs (Easter), Candy Stix, Talking Pumpkins (Halloween), Peach Blossoms (Christmas), Necco Ultramints, Canada Mint & Wintergreen Losenges

Rock Candy (made from pure sugar)

Ce De Candies: Kidz Rings, Candy Fruits, Candy Lipsticks, Smarties

Mars Inc: Skittles, Jelly Beans

Sunkist: Fruit Jems, Jelly Beans, Orange and Cream chews, Super Sour Stars

Sorbee International: Lollypops

Jolly Rancher: Hard Candies, Jelly Beans

Jelly Belly: All flavors of Jelly Beans EXCEPT: Cafe Latte, Buttered Toast, Caramel Corn, Buttered Popcorn, Chocolate Cherry Cake, Chocolate Pudding, Strawberry Cheesecake

This should give you a lot more options and they are all available pretty much everywhere. I can also put together a list of others that you might only find online or in healthfood stores if you would like. Just let me know.

As for chocolate, I found that the Scharfen Berger chocolate bars are very yummy. They are gluten and dairy free by ingredients. The small bars are wrapped in a different facility where they also wrap other chocolates that do contain milk, so as a precaution they put a milk warning on the label. I am very sensitive to dairy reactions and have never had a reaction to these bars. They are a bit pricey and not available everywhere (I got mine at Whole Foods) but they are very nice to have when you are craving chocolate. There are also a few kinds of baking chocolate chips that are gluten and dairy free.

God bless,
Mariann

Chips: most things by Frito Lays (not Doritos), you can have: Lays Potato Chips, Wavy Lays Potato Chips, Cheetos, Fritos, etc. You can get a complete list at http://www.fritolay.com/nutrition/glutefree.shtml:

QUOTE

FritoLays Gluten-Free Products:
Last updated August 28, 2003

BAKED DORITOS® Cooler Ranch Flavored Tortilla Chips
BAKED LAY’S® Original Potato Crisps
BAKED LAY’S® Sour Cream & Onion Artificially Flavored Potato Crisps
BAKED RUFFLES® Cheddar & Sour Cream Flavored Potato Crisps
BAKED RUFFLES® Original Potato Crisps
BAKED TOSTITOS® Bite Size Tortilla Chips
BAKEN-ETS® Fried Pork Skins
BAKEN-ETS® Hot ‘N Spicy Flavored Pork Cracklins
BAKEN-ETS® Hot ‘N Spicy Flavored Pork Skins
BAKEN-ETS® Pork Cracklins
BAKEN-ETS® Sweet & Tangy BBQ Flavored Pork Skins
CHEETOS® ASTEROIDS™ Flamin’ Hot Mini Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® ASTEROIDS™ Mini Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® Flamin’ Hot Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® Flamin’ Hot Limon Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® Jumbo Puffs Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® Puffs Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® Reduced Fat Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® Twisted Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® Natural White Cheddar Puffs Cheese Flavored Snacks
CHEETOS® Wild Ranch Flavored Snacks
CHESTER’S® Butter Artificially Flavored Popcorn
CHESTER’S® Cheese Flavored Popcorn
CHESTER’S® Hot Fries Corn & Potato Snacks
CHURRUMAIS® Limoncita Chile & Lime Naturally and Artificially Flavored Corn Strips
CRACKER JACK® Butter Crunch Peanuts
CRACKER JACK® Original Caramel Coated Popcorn & Peanuts
DORITOS® Cooler Ranch Flavored Tortilla Chips
DORITOS® Four Cheese Flavored Tortilla Chips
DORITOS® Guacamole! Flavored Tortilla Chips
DORITOS® Mini Cooler Ranch Flavored Tortilla Chips
DORITOS® Mini 3D’s® Zesty Ranch Flavored Mini Corn Snacks
DORITOS® Ranchero Flavored Tortilla Chips
DORITOS® Salsa Flavored Tortilla Chips
DORITOS® Salsa Verde Flavored Tortilla Chips
DORITOS® Taco Flavored Tortilla Chips
DORITOS® 3D’s® Jalapeno Cheddar Flavored Corn Snacks
DORITOS® 3D’s® Nacho Cheesier Flavored Corn Snacks (full size 3D’s – not mini 3D’s)
DORITOS® Toasted Corn Tortilla Chips
DORITOS® WOW!® NACHO CHEESIER® Flavored Tortilla Chips
FRITO LAY® Cashews
FRITO LAY® FLAMIN’ HOT® Flavored Sunflower Seeds
FRITO LAY® Honey Roasted Peanuts
FRITO LAY® Hot Peanuts
FRITO LAY® Jalapeno & Cheddar Flavored Cheese Dip
FRITO LAY® Mild Cheddar Flavored Cheese Dip
FRITO LAY® Mixed Nuts
FRITO LAY® Original Trail Mix
FRITO LAY® Salted Peanuts
FRITO LAY® Smoked Almonds
FRITO LAY® Sunflower Seed Kernels
FRITO LAY® Sunflower Seeds
FRITO LAY® Sweet Honey Trail Mix
FRITOS® Bean Dip
FRITOS® Black Bean Dip
FRITOS® Chili Cheese Dip
FRITOS® FLAVOR TWISTS™ Cheddar Ranch Flavored Corn Chips
FRITOS® FLAVOR TWISTS™ Honey BBQ Flavored Corn Chips
FRITOS® FLAVOR TWISTS™ Jalapeno Cheddar Flavored Corn Chips
FRITOS® Hot Bean Dip
FRITOS® King Size Corn Chips
FRITOS® Original Corn Chips
FRITOS® SABROSITAS™ Lime ‘N Chile Flavored Corn Chips
FRITOS® SCOOPS!® Corn Chips
FRITOS® Waves Corn Chips
FUNYUNS® Mini Onion Flavored Rings
FUNYUNS® Onion Rings
LAY’S® Chicago Steakhouse Loaded Baked Potato Flavored P.C. (Taste of America)
LAY’S® Classic Potato Chips
LAY’S® Cool Guacamole Flavored Potato Chips
LAY’S® Country BBQ Thick Cut Natural Potato Chips
LAY’S® Deli Style Original Potato Chips
LAY’S® Dill Pickle Flavored Potato Chips
LAY’S® Fries Cheddar Flavored Potato Snacks
LAY’S® Fries Regular Flavored Potato Snacks
LAY’S® KC MASTERPIECE® BBQ Flavored Potato Chips
LAY’S® Kettle Cooked Mequite BBQ Flavored Extra Crunchy Potato Chips
LAY’S® Kettle Cooked Jalapeno Flavored Extra Crunchy Potato Chips
LAY’S® Kettle Cooked Regular Potato Chips
LAY’S® Limon Tangy Lime Flavored Potato Chips
LAY’S® Monterey Pepper Jack Flavored Potato Chips (Taste of America)
LAY’S® Salt & Vinegar Artificially Flavored Potato Chips
LAY’S® San Antonio Salsa Flavored Potato Chips (Taste of America)
LAY’S® Santa Fe Ranch Flavored Potato Chips
LAY’S® Natural Sea Salt Thick Cut Potato Chips
LAY’S® Sour Cream & Onion Artificially Flavored Potato Chips
LAY’S® Sour Cream & Onion Artificially Flavored Mini Crisps
LAY’S® STAX Cheddar Flavored Potato Crisps
LAY’S® STAX Original Flavored Potato Crisps
LAY’S® STAX Sour Cream & Onion Flavored Potato Crisps
LAY’S® Tangy Salsa Artificially Flavored Potato Chips
LAY’S® Wisconsin Cheddar Flavored Potato Chips (Taste of America)
LAY’S® WOW!® Original Potato Chips
Maui Style Regular Potato Chips
Maui Style Salt & Vinegar Flavored Potato Chips
MISS VICKIE’S™ Jalapeno Flavored Potato Chips
MISS VICKIE’S™ Mesquite BBQ Flavored Potato Chips
MISS VICKIE’S™ Original Potato Chips
MUNCHOS® Regular Potato Crisps
RUFFLES® Cheddar & Sour Cream Flavored Potato Chips
RUFFLES® French Onion Dip
RUFFLES® Mini 3D’s® Maximum Cheddar Flavored Potato Snacks
RUFFLES® Regular Potato Chips
RUFFLES® Ranch Dip
RUFFLES® Reduced Fat Potato Chips
RUFFLES® Natural Reduced Fat Regular Sea Salted Potato Chips
RUFFLES® Sour Cream & Onion Flavored Potato Chips
RUFFLES® 3D’s® Maximum Cheddar Flavored Potato Snacks
RUFFLES® 3D’s® Sour Cream & Onion Flavored Potato Snacks
RUFFLES® WOW! Original Potato Chips
RUSTLER’S™ Beef Jerky
RUSTLER’S™ Spicy Flavor Beef Stick
SABRITAS® ADOBADAS™ Tomato & Chile Flavored Potato Chips
SANTITAS® White Corn Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips
SANTITAS® Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips
SMARTFOOD® Reduced Fat White Cheddar Cheese Flavored Popcorn
SMARTFOOD® White Cheddar Cheese Flavored Popcorn
TOSTITOS® All Natural Hot Salsa
TOSTITOS® All Natural Medium Salsa
TOSTITOS® All Natural Mild Salsa
TOSTITOS® Bite Size Rounds Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® Crispy Rounds Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® Fire Roasted Salsa
TOSTITOS® Gold Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® Medium Organic Salsa
TOSTITOS® Natural Blue Corn Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® Natural Yellow Corn Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® Queso Supreme Dip
TOSTITOS® Restaurant Style with a Hint of Lime Flavor Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® Salsa Con Queso
TOSTITOS® Santa Fe Rounds Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® SCOOPS!® Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® Southwestern Salsa
TOSTITOS® Strips Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® WOW!® Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips
TOSTITOS® Zesty Bean & Cheese Dip
TOSTITOS® 100% White Corn Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips
WAVY LAY’S™ Au Gratin Flavored Potato Chips
WAVY LAY’S™ Hickory BBQ Flavored Potato Chips
WAVY LAY’S™ Regular Potato Chips

FRITOS® SCOOPS! ® Corn Chips & Chili Flavored Cheese Dip Kit
RUFFLES® Original Potato Chips & French Onion Dip Kit
TOSTITOS® Tortilla Chips & Cheese Dip Kit

*The above products do not contain gluten; however, they are produced on the same line as our products that do contain gluten. Although the lines are washed between batches, a slight residue may remain on the lines. Individuals who are extremely sensitive may be affected.

All Frito-Lay products are labeled accurately with the most current ingredient information. Frito-Lay makes every effort to maintain this list; however, since the ingredients in our snacks are subject to change at any time, we recommend that you check the label on a specific product for the most current and accurate nutritional information. If you need assistance, please contact Frito-Lay Consumer Affairs toll-free at 1-800-352-4477 Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Central Standard Time.

- Genisoy Bars: good for high-fat snacks, and on-the-go meals...only two flavors are gluten-free: A honey Creamy PB Yogurt, which isn't the best, and Southern Style Chunky PB, which tastes like candy...it's great -- and it has about 25 grams of soy protein!

- Mac & Cheese: If you don't want to bother to make your own Mac and Cheese and want it the quick way like you may have had it back in the day...the Kraft Macaroni and Cheese SAUCE PACKET is gluten-free. Then use your own gluten-free noodles (such as DeBoles or Tinkyada), and you have a quick lunch.

- Foods By George: set a high-standard for gluten-free foods. Their brownies...to die for, especially when you heat them up and put gluten-free icecream (Haggen Dasz: strawberry, vanilla, chocolate...anything except for the obvious, like cookie dough........if you're avoiding dairy and lactose, try "Soy Delicious") on them. Also amazing, their corn muffins...heat them up, smother them in butter, and I literally checked the box again to make sure they were gluten-free after I took the first bite. If you take two bits of advice from this post, make it the Chebe and the Foods By George. BOTH ARE AMAZING. CHEBE AND FOODS BY GEORGE....brownies are gluten-free/wheat-free/casein-free/dairy-free/lactose-free/soy-free. Corn muffins are gluten-free and wheat-free.

- Pasta: Deboles is gluten-free, but about 20 cents more expensive than an equally good brand that's more popular (at least, with Celiacs on this board). Tinkyada is most popular, very good, and a little less expensive.

-Coulter

debmidge

Jun 28 2004, 05:55 PM

Coulter

Where did you find the Food by George gluten-free Corn Muffins? At a store or do they let you order directly from them?

Thanks,

Debbie

Coulter

Jun 29 2004, 06:33 AM

The only place I've found them is a healthfood store near me. They might be hard to find, because they're only in one of four healthfood stres that I visit. I am not aware of an official site to order online, but some online gluten-free products store might carry them. Both are rather expensive, but just try one package and you'll see why I praise them....

-Coulter

NegativeZero

Jul 15 2004, 11:39 AM

Hey everyone. I'm new to the boards. I figured I'd start here because I am also a boyfriend of someone who has celiac disease. I never knew it even existed till about 4 months ago when my now girlfriend and I were just friends and we went out and ate a burger after a shift at work. Since then, I have been paying close attention to what she eats and drinks to better understand what is safe and what is not.

First off, Coulter, thank you so much for the list of gluten-free snack foods...it helps to know which snack foods I can stock up on and have around my place all the time that we can snack on together. That list is such a huge help.

I still have some questions though. I was actually looking for gluten-free brownie mix with no success. Should I just look online? The local grocerie stores don't seem to be much good around here. Also, I have a breadmaker and I looked at all of the gluten-free bread mixes...I took mental notes of all the flours they use. Obviously, wheat flour is dangerous. I wanted to be double-safe, and although it sorta ruined some of the surprise, I asked her if oat flour, soy flour, and rice flour was safe. She warned me to avoid oat flour and soy flour. Aside from rice flour, are there any other flours that might be safe? More importantly, are there any other kinds of flour that I should be careful not to use? I also know any kind of "modified food starch" is also something to be careful with.

That Chebe bread sounds like a safe bet (and sounds really good

). I will most likely use that. I have a whole day of things planned, including a picnic (which I will have either brownies, sanwiches, or both....and other picnic foods and stuff), along with a whole bunch of other fun things. Of course, no matter what I use I think I will cut all of the ingredient labels off and bring them with me...since she can spot what is dangerous in a millisecond.

My girlfriend is the most incredibly awesome person I have ever met, I want nothing but the best for her...especially if it comes to one of my surprises

.

Sorry for the lengthy post, any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

-Matt

chasefamily

Jul 15 2004, 05:16 PM

Hello All still a newbie here I haven't been diagnosed yet, but schjeduled for endoscopy the end of this month. This is really going to be a big adjustment for our family because my daughter who is a diabetic has to have a certain amount of carbohydrates per meal and most gluten free foods have very few carbs. I know that when I get the results I will have to see dietician, we already see a dietician for my daughter , I know that we will all be eating healthier but she is not happy to know that we will be giving up more foods. Any ideas would be appreciated thanks.

Coulter

Jul 19 2004, 05:30 AM

Glad to have helped, NegativeZero.

You are correct; modified food starch can be bad if it's made from wheat. It's good to be wary. Second, thanks for trying the Chebe

! I've mentioned it a lot, but I think you'll be the first to try it! As for a gluten-free brownie mix, there's no way you'd find it in a grocery store, because there are no mainstream gluten-free brownie mixes as there are potato chips.....you'll have to go to a healthfood store or order online. When I got started on the gluten-free diet, I had a celiac friend that helped me with great foods (like Chebe...I never would have found it).....friend didn't join, board, though. Anyway, I was told that Pamela's Products Ultra Chocolate Brownie Mix are MUCH better than food by george brownies and are absolutely to die for. Like the pancake mix, all the brownie mix requires is oil, water, and an egg.....for those of you with additional allergies or intolerances, I'll list the ingredients below...I haven't tried these, yet, but plan to, soon:

Flour base (brown rice flour, tapioca starch, sweet rice flour, potato starch, xanathan gum), molasses and honey, natural process cocoa powder, *Organic chocolate chunks (chocolate liquor, butter, soy Lecithin-emulsifier, Natural vanilla flavor), Natural vanilla flavor, sea salt, baking soda.

I don't make a lot of things from scratch so I don't really know about flours....buckwheat is fine, despite its name, brown rice flour (or any other rice flour), tapioca flour, potato starch........somebody else might be able to help there.

-Coulter

Boojca

Jul 19 2004, 05:43 AM

I can find most of my gluten-free mixes in our grocery stores, but I'm here in the East. The "BIG" stores now have a "organic/healthy" section, and I've found a TON of gluten-free stuff in those sections. Including Pamela's cookies, Gluten Free Pantry mixes, Arrowhead Mills flours, etc.... So, if you have a "big" grocery store that has one of these sections go through it and check, you may be pleasantly surprised.

I have tried the Gluten Free Pantry brownie mix and Bob's Red Mill brownie mix. Both are FABULOUS and taste and "feel" like "real" brownies. In fact, I don't have celiac disease my son does but I'll eat these probably before he's even had more than one! With a little vanilla ice cream....ugh. I have to stop....

Rice flour, tapioca flour, potato flour. Some say sorghum flour but I haven't come across that so have no idea. I did not care at all for the Amaranth flour, but others love it. I thought it tasted like, well, moldy flour....others say it tastes nutty but I dunno.... Personally, though, I've decided I like the mixes best. I love the Gluten Free Pantry Favorite Sandwich Bread. Others rave about Manna from Anna, but I haven't tried that yet. Have some ordered though. As for the bread machine, I have one but don't use it. Word is that only certain bread machines work for gluten-free bread so you have to be careful with them. After reading about it, it sounded like MORE work to use the bread machine so I don't. gluten-free bread is very different than "real" bread in that you don't knead it, and you only let it rise once. When you mix it, preferably in a stand mixer (like a Kitchen Aid) bc the batter is so thick you could never do it by hand, it comes out like a really think cake batter. Actually more like Brownie batter. Anyway, you mix it and then pour it into a bread pan and cover it with saran wrap and let it rise. Then you put it in the oven and bake it. I usually let mine rise for 45 minutes, then bake it for 30 minutes. Whalla, bread.

There are a zillion places to order online, I order from the Gluten Free Pantry bc I love their stuff (they also carry many of the things listed on here in addition to their own products)

You should try and get a mainstream product list(s). That would help you both immensely. I bought one from CSA Celiac for $20....I think there's a link in the Food & Shopping forum on here for a list created by a support group in Wheaton, IL. It is great to have both, which I do, bc there are some items on one that are not on the other and vice versa. There is also a list at the Delphi forums, I dont' have the URL maybe someone else here does?, that I have that also has a few other things not on these other two lists.

Hope this helps!

Bridget

NegativeZero

Jul 19 2004, 12:11 PM

Awesome! Thanks Coulter and Bridget!

I've been extremely busy lately, so my whole plan is postponed (I'm getting ready to move into my own place). However, I did spend a lot of time with my girlfriend these past couple days. I spent a night over her place and we went to the grocerie store together. We walked through the "organic food" section, which is where she normally finds her bread...but unfortunately the whole Atkins craze has taken over and her bread was not to be found. I seemed more upset about it than she did. But I was uber-psyched to find out that she could eat fruity pebbles and cocoa pebbles (and corn pops)!!! Those happen to be some of my favs. When we ate them she was all smiles and claimed that it's been forever since she's eaten cereal. So I have decided I have to do the brownies....and I am going from scratch. In my research I found a big list for gluten free recipes so it is on! She's had celiac disease since she was a little kid, so she is fine with everything...she knows her stuff. She's really big on trying to cook for me, I can't wait to return the favor. All I have to do is locate and order all the stuff I need, I can't wait to see the look on her face when I surprise her.

For anyone interested here is a link to the recipe place that I found with the gluten-free recipes:

http://www.fitnessandfreebies.com/celiac/recipelist.html

angel_jd1

Jul 19 2004, 01:49 PM

Your girlfriend should not be eating corn pops. They began adding wheat to their ingredients begining january 1st of this year. There is however, the malt-o-meal brand of corn bursts (like corn pops) that are fine for her to eat. I would hate to have her getting sick because of a silly cereal.

-Jessica

NegativeZero

Jul 19 2004, 10:05 PM

QUOTE(angel_jd1 @ Jul 19 2004, 01:49 PM)

Whoa, that's dissapointing. Obviously she didn't know that...that's news. That sucks that they started adding wheat. Like I said, she said she hadn't eaten cereal in forever (I think years). I'm not a fan of corn pops anyways...hence why we got fruity pebbles. But thanks for the heads up, I'll be sure to let her know. At least we still got the pebbles variety!

Littlewolf

Aug 24 2004, 05:20 PM

Hey all!

I am in the same boat, my boyfriend is gluten-free and it's tough to learn to deal with his diet. I am able to eat anything (except chocolate) and it slips my mind when we go out.

I know my BF was depressed when the doc pronounced him a Celiac even though he sort of knew a few years ago.

Anyhow, if your sig other is a celiac, they need to start the diet right away. Dealing with the consquences is not nice or pretty. Plus, it can eat away at the stomach and intestine lining causing a lifetime of problems. It's a hard ajustment, but, there are lots of food ok to eat out there. Mexian food is good. You can still make stirfries and have any meat and veggy.

It's like a forced Aktins diet.

Anyhow, if anyone has a loved one who is gluten-free, feel free to message me.

fisharefriendsnotfood

Sep 20 2005, 02:07 PM

QUOTE(Coulter @ Jun 25 2004, 06:31 PM)

PAMELA'S COOKIES ARE NOT GLUTEN FREE!!!!
I read that in a Celiac Newsletter.

-Jackie

skbird

Sep 20 2005, 02:34 PM

QUOTE(fisharefriendsnotfood @ Sep 20 2005, 02:07 PM)

PAMELA'S COOKIES ARE NOT GLUTEN FREE!!!!
I read that in a Celiac Newsletter.

-Jackie

Which newsletter? All the ones I've eaten are gluten free, have no gluten in the ingredients, and say gluten free on the label. I've also never reacted to any of those I've eaten, and I'm a pretty sensitive reactor.

Curious...

Stephanie

Rachel--24

Sep 20 2005, 07:24 PM

QUOTE(fisharefriendsnotfood @ Sep 20 2005, 05:07 PM)

PAMELA'S COOKIES ARE NOT GLUTEN FREE!!!!

Huh??? I eat Pamela's cookies and as far as I know they are gluten-free. I've never gotten sick.

Maybe they were referring to the other Pamela's cookies....I've seen some newer ones that aren't gluten-free...I almost bought some mistakenly cuz I just assumed they were all gluten-free.

gabrielle

Sep 23 2005, 05:43 PM

QUOTE(Coulter @ Jun 25 2004, 02:31 PM)

- Miscellaneous: Raisins, Quaker Rice Cakes, most soft drinks are gluten-free including all kinds (diet, caffeine free, etc.) of Coke, Sprite, Sunkist, Pepsi, etc. As long as you stick with the brand-name companies (not the Supermarket Colas and be careful with Root Beers). There are many gluten-free candies...I actually made a post under the "Teenagers Only Section" for gluten-free candies...check there for the complete list that Gf4Life provided...actually, I'll copy it below:
-Coulter

DID I READ THIS RIGHT???? Quaker Rice Cakes are gluten-free??? Really?!? Please tell me this is true!
Gabby

KaitiUSA

Sep 23 2005, 05:57 PM

QUOTE(gabrielle @ Sep 23 2005, 09:43 PM)

DID I READ THIS RIGHT???? Quaker Rice Cakes are gluten-free??? Really?!? Please tell me this is true!
Gabby

Well they won't guarantee because of cross contamination. I don't trust ANY of the Quaker products.

gabrielle

Sep 23 2005, 06:03 PM

QUOTE(KaitiUSA @ Sep 23 2005, 05:57 PM)

Well they won't guarantee because of cross contamination. I don't trust ANY of the Quaker products.

that's what i thought. i called Quaker in January, and they said none of their products could be considered gluten-free. I was just wondering if there was a new policy.... Darn. Thanks.

Claire

Sep 23 2005, 06:08 PM

QUOTE(Coulter @ Jul 19 2004, 08:30 AM)

Glad to have helped, NegativeZero.

I don't make a lot of things from scratch so I don't really know about flours....buckwheat is fine, despite its name, brown rice flour (or any other rice flour), tapioca flour, potato starch........somebody else might be able to help there.

-Coulter

You might also try sweet rice flour (hard to find sometimes) and Teff. Claire

sb4480

Sep 26 2005, 07:45 AM

QUOTE(Claire @ Sep 23 2005, 09:08 PM)

You might also try sweet rice flour (hard to find sometimes) and Teff. Claire

We can also eat bean flour. There's a brand that I bought in my nearby Price Chopper that was a gluten-free all-purpose flour. It worked well for chocolate chip coconut cookies, but when I made sugar cookies with it I thought it tasted like raw lentils. I'd use it again but only for baked stuff with other stronger flavors.

The gluten-free pantry has a ton of good mixes. I like bother the french bread (also doubles as pizza crust) and the sandwich bread are good. I've found that the texture is better when I don't use my bread machine and when I warm it up a bit before eating it. If you eat it cold it can be crumbly like corn bread. I don't recommend the muffins though. I made blueberry muffins from the muffin and scone mix and they were alright at first but after they cooled they tasted like saw dust and toasting or microwaving didn't help at all.

These breads also freeze really well and cost about 3-4 dollars a bag for the mix. The loaf is huge so I always freeze 1/2.

I find that my motivation for being gluten-free especially when I'm in a relationship is the lack of gas. There's nothing more embarassing than accidentally passing gas and clearing the room!

Stephie

tiredofdoctors!!!

Sep 29 2005, 08:59 PM

The fact that you're making gluten-free brownies for your girlfriend scores HUGE points with me! Maybe I can shed some light on why your girlfriend is doing what she's doing, because I'm doing the same thing.

I don't have Celiac, but I have been diagnosed with Gluten Ataxia. Basically, the antibodies to gluten, combined with some other antibodies, are destroying the cerebellum of my brain. I'm now in a wheelchair when I'm out, and either using a walker or using the walls and doorways to keep upright at home (I walk like a drunk, essentially). After finally accepting that, O.K., maybe the doctors are right, now I'm just MAD that it feels like my ENTIRE LIFE is turned upside down. Not only can I not do the things I used to, but now I can't even EAT THE THINGS THAT I LIKE!!!!!!! It's a stupid kind of childlike rebellion, is deleterious to my health, and the most bizarre thing is that I know I'm doing it. And not that I'm old, but I'm not necessarily a kid, either!

I have to believe that this is just a phase. I'm picking up the book more and more, label shopping much more, and kind of "easing into" the Gluten-Free lifestyle. I think because I know that the change is permanent and should ultimately never be reversed, it's really difficult to accept. When you look at the components of foods which could possibly contain gluten, you begin to realize that this lifestyle change is BIG. Being a part of a very close-knit family, it also means that my children, my parents, my sister and her family, etc. will also be affected by this -- it sort of makes me feel like the family freak. We can't have (this) because it has gluten. We can't have (that) because it has gluten. It feels as though, to attend a family gathering, we're all going to have to learn how to cook gluten-free, or else I'm going to have to bring my meals to everything!

Give your girlfriend some time -- my husband is doing the same for me. Each time I ask him to bring home a Pizza, his question is "Are you SURE?" If I say "yes" -- there's no further discussion, lecture, etc. If I say "No" or "Not really, but I don't know what else to do", he helps me decide on a better choice. I find it hard to believe that if you're baking Gluten Free brownies for her, she won't be coming around REALLY soon! Good luck, and thanks for listening to me vent, as well!

Claire

Sep 29 2005, 09:53 PM

QUOTE(Coulter @ Jul 19 2004, 08:30 AM)

Glad to have helped, NegativeZero.

I was told that Pamela's Products Ultra Chocolate Brownie Mix are MUCH better than food by george brownies and are absolutely to die for.

-Coulter

Just a vote for Pamela's goodies. Everything I have tried so far has been really good - especially Pecan Sandies. They come plain or with chocolate chips. Claire

Claire

Sep 29 2005, 10:03 PM

QUOTE(tiredofdoctors!!! @ Sep 29 2005, 11:59 PM)

Hi again tiredofdoctors - you and I know that you know better than pizza! Every grain of gluten is hurting you. Don't do it. It's hard. I know. I am there too. I just don't want to get worse or at least worse any faster than I have to. For that I will pay a price. Not happily but I will pay it. If the person closest to you is supportive and kind, you have it made. I live with my daughter who is just wonderful about this and I consider myself fortunate. When she is doing so much to support me, I cannot cheat - not fair to her - or me. I have posted a wonderful rice pizza recipe. Do a search here for it. If you don't find it just tell me and I will post it for you. It's great.
Claire

Claire

Sep 29 2005, 10:18 PM

QUOTE(skbird @ Sep 20 2005, 05:34 PM)

Another curious. Pamela's are labeled gluten free, no gluten containing ingredients on the label and sold in the Gluten Free section of my Health Store - likewise at Whole Foods. Is someone making the buckwheat mistake here? Claire

tiredofdoctors!!!

Sep 30 2005, 04:13 AM

Thanks, Claire! It's true, having loving, supportive people around you is probably the most important part of all this. Last night, my husband went out to get ice cream for us -- checking the labels so that I can have each kind -- because we only had Gluten-containing junk food here!

Touche' with regard to the pizza! I really do think that I have a rebellion thing going on here, though -- I had never thought about the fact that I am also hurting my husband, kids and the rest of my family each time I eat gluten-containing foods. Hmmmmm . . . . different perspective, and a REAL eye-opener. Thanks for the wake-up call.

BERNESES

Nov 18 2005, 12:02 PM

All I have to say, reading these threads, is that you guys are wonderful to be so concerned! My husband is the same way and it makes a world of difference! B

hlm34

Nov 18 2005, 12:56 PM

I am 28 and was just diagnosed a week ago. I live with my fiancee and he has been wonderful. Together we threw out all the non-gluten-free foods in our house and he is great about making and eating all gluten-free foods at home with me. I appreciate it tons. But i do think there is a time of mourning for sure. I just met with my dietician and she said that was completely normal. The whole thing is a bit daunting and overwhelming. its a lifestyle change and that is scary to think about. I thought to myself "I like my life and i dont want to change it." Of course i had celiac symptoms for only a couple of weeks so perhaps i wasnt as ready to make a change as others were. I think what bothered me most is the symptoms and problems that tend to come with celiac down the road - all the other issues. and also, the eating out issue. My fiancee and i are young and live in the city and we like to go out and try new restaurants with each other and friends. we go to hole-in-the-wall bars and drink beer and eat fried foods. Eating is definitely a social activity in the US. and its just not that much fun to go to a restaurant and order plain chicken and steamed veggies. you know? I think I am mourning the social burden it puts on me more than anything. That may sound absurd, but thats what i am struggling with.

I think it is so important to have people who are supportive. Its only been a week and i dont know how i would have made it even this far without those people. But at the same time - I need time to adjust you know? I think your girlfriend will come around and start sticking to the diet, i am beginning to stick to it as well. it just takes a little time. Its really hard to say "okay - change your life completely - starting right now!!!" It will happen and it will get easier. Way to be so supportive!! i am impressed, and i am sure that even though she might not be saying so right now, i bet your girlfriend appreciates your efforts more than you know.

CaliGirl

Nov 18 2005, 07:16 PM

I just finished reading "Dangerous Grains" which is an excellent book. I have been gluten-free for over a year, but I still found it very informative. Something I didn't know before what that gluten has mild opiate qualities, and health problems of recovering drug addicts and newly gluten-free celiacs are very similar. Basically, your body is still longing for something very dangerous, much like any opiate drug addiction.

Don't be surprised if you have very powerful cravings--just know what body is doing, and don't give in! It's the only way to break the cycle. Stay strong! Your body recovers, and you personally will move on from your grieving period. Life is so much better gluten free! My only regret is that I didn't know about this my entire life.

No cheating!

nogluten!

Nov 18 2005, 11:44 PM

The last three days I was so busy that I cheated. My husband wanted to eat out, so I decided we could. Oh my...it's not worth it ! I'm so disappointed in myself.

tarnalberry

Nov 19 2005, 09:37 PM

QUOTE(nogluten! @ Nov 18 2005, 11:44 PM)

The last three days I was so busy that I cheated. My husband wanted to eat out, so I decided we could. Oh my...it's not worth it ! I'm so disappointed in myself.

What's done is done. It's just time to pick up where you left off and go back to being gluten-free. Use this experience to determine how you might have been able to eat gluten free at the restaurant, so you can next time. (For instance, when a bunch of coworkers were leaving, and we had 20-person tables at Claim Jumper, I just asked for a plain baked potato and plain, steam vegetables. Maybe I could have gotten a grilled steak in that environment if I had enough time to talk with the waiter, but didn't feel like doing it in that sort of setting. But it did provide for gluten-free food for me.)

nogluten!

Nov 20 2005, 12:19 AM

Thanks for the suggestion...that's a good idea. I need to remember the baked potato option. Take care.

BERNESES

Nov 20 2005, 06:12 AM

QUOTE

My fiancee and i are young and live in the city and we like to go out and try new restaurants with each other and friends. we go to hole-in-the-wall bars and drink beer and eat fried foods. Eating is definitely a social activity in the US. and its just not that much fun to go to a restaurant and order plain chicken and steamed veggies. you know? I think I am mourning the social burden it puts on me more than anything. That may sound absurd, but thats what i am struggling with.

I think that's so true- eating and drinking in the US is really social and it's hard when you have to be the "different" one. I have been gluten-free since February (almost 10 months now) and there are plenty of times when I've wanted to scream.

I think you also made a good point- if you've only been having symptoms for awhile or no symptoms at all, it's even harder to be like "OK I have to change my entire diet today! For the rest of my life" I think it would make you more prone to "cheating" (I hate to call it that) because you don't feel the consequences as strongly.

When I went gluten-free I had been miserably sick and exhausted for about 6 months and had lost twenty pounds so I knew something was REALLY wrong. For me, it was easy because I was willing to do almost anything to feel better (still am). But as time went on and things really "sunk in" it became harder. I go through periods of time when I am really frustrated (this will be my first gluten-free Thanksgiving). I am also frustrated because I am not healing as quickly as I thought I would, but that's another story.

We all need time to be angry and grieve. Hang in there, Beverly
PS I miss beer and French fries too!

darlindeb25

Nov 20 2005, 06:48 AM

I have read this thread from start to finish and I have to add my memories now. I was sick for so long--diarrhea nearly every night, sometimes all night long. I couldnt plan anything, I was raising 5 kids pretty much alone--running them all over, hoping to not be sick when they needed me most. When I went gluten free, it was a relief. I didnt mourn the food I couldnt have, I never even thought about eating something we cant touch. I was so happy to be feeling better and having the weight melting away (I am one of the celiacs that gained while sick instead of losing). I could go places, I wasnt sick all the time--I was enjoying life, something I had not done for a very long time. It has been over 4 years now--NOW, I miss those foods. I was in a grocery store last weekend and they had fresh fried chicken out--it smelled so good--I was like a puppy following my nose to the deli section. I looked at it with love on my face. I wanted that chicken so much, and truthfully, I was never much of a fried chicken fan. Noodles with Cream of Chicken Soup is something I want, a Milky Way candy bar--real chocolate chip cookies--my mother's lasagna----by the way, I have had to give up most soy and corn too along with all tomato products, fresh and processed. I feel sometimes like I want to scream, "WHY ME??????????" Honest, I am thankful it is a disease we can live with, as long as we stick to the lifestyle laid out for us. I was sick for so long that I now have neuropathy too and that has been taking over some of my happy zone. I watch my kids and know that they too are showing signs of gluten sensitivity and they dont want to deal with it, I cant convince them to be checked. I dont relay my feelings to them, I live 800 miles away and it has only been the last few months that I have been feeling like something is missing. I am good most of the time, just my mind wanders sometimes to what we are missing. I will always be gluten-free, I never, ever have eaten something containing gluten knowingly and I never will. Sometimes, it is an emotional roller coaster, just as any disease causes. Deb

debbiewil

Nov 21 2005, 06:15 AM

When looking for flours, don't forget the nut flours. I especially like them for sweet baked goods. Coffee cakes and muffins, things like that just seem to beg for almond or pecan flours. Also walnut, hazelnut, etc. Nuts add a bit of protein as well so I like to use them whenever possible. Also, I've seen pumpkin flour for sale. Haven't tried it, but I bet it would make the best pumpkin bread!
Debbie

nederlandse

Feb 3 2006, 07:38 AM

You're doing the right thing.
I sympathise but am at the same time encouraged by you're commitment to helping her and understanding what she's going through. Kudos!

QUOTE(bignate @ Apr 20 2004, 07:06 PM)

Ok I feel better now...time to make gluten-free brownies for TV nite tomorrow.

Take care everyone!

kari

Mar 15 2006, 06:36 AM

coulter - i'm confused because you said you can have chips, but specifically not doritos - then you posted a list which included every variety of doritos as okay. i have checked the bag before and they're fine.

2Boys4Me

Mar 15 2006, 12:45 PM

Kari, Nacho Cheese Doritos or *I think* any Cheese flavoured Doritos are NOT gluten-free in Canada. Not sure about the States.

RoseNNJ

Mar 15 2006, 12:53 PM

That is really awesome that you guys are so supportive to your girlfriends!

Tracy T

Mar 22 2006, 11:23 PM

My sympathies, it's a big change. But it's not the end of the world. There are more and more products available to choose from, and the quality and variety has greatly improved even in just the last five years. Travel is the hardest, as is eating out, but it's all dooable with research - my partner and I went to Italy and got through. It is a change for both of you, and sounds like you are ready to dive in whereas she's coming to terms with what this means to her. She may need to adjust gradually, and try things. A lot of the bread is good (Kinkinnick is the best I hear), but flaky croissants are out (though we found chocolate croissants in Italy, they weren't very good). Whole Foods has good stuff as well.

I have to say: I have gotten serious brownie points with my partner, especially early on in our relationship, by ordering her gluten free products on the web. I got her her first ever oreo like cookies and pretzels. I have made her homemade sugar cookies and cooked her her first gluten free lasagne. I really won big when she came home one day and found a big box on the porch, full of gluten free beer. She had never dreamed that there was such a thing.

There are a lot of resources out there, support groups, web sites to order food, cookbooks. It's a culinary adventure.

Best of luck to you.

This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.