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Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and the information provided in this article is based on personal experiences and research. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider or medical professional before making any significant changes to your diet or health regimen. Your individual health needs and circumstances may vary, and a medical professional can provide personalized advice and guidance tailored to your specific situation. Any dietary or lifestyle changes should be made under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your health and well-being.
When I made the switch to a nutrition plan centered on unprocessed whole foods, my body began sending distress signals in the form of bloating, pain, diarrhea, constipation, and cramps that felt like daggers in my gut. After enduring years of doctors offering hasty "It's probably IBS" diagnoses without truly understanding my issues, frustration finally propelled me to seek help from a Holistic Nutritionist.
Initially, I viewed this approach with skepticism, dismissing it as "mumbo jumbo." However, a friend's recommendation and the relentless pain I'd endured for years persuaded me to give it a chance. At my consultation, I learned that cows' milk dairy protein (casein) and wheat were causing my problems. I gradually phased out these problematic foods from my diet.
There were moments when I succumbed to "cheat days," only to endure the consequences later, with gut inflammation, bloating, and excruciating pain. Over the past few years, I've come to the profound realization that these indulgences weren't worth the agony and inflammation they inflicted upon my body. Thus, I embarked on a journey to explore healthy food alternatives for the once-indulgent treats. It has been a path marked by trial and error, yet my unwavering focus on reducing inflammation and healing my gut has fostered a newfound appreciation for my body and its wisdom in guiding me toward nourishing it appropriately.
I've encountered skeptics and individuals ignorant of the challenges posed by food intolerances. I've endured judgment, mockery, and belittlement, all stemming from my inability to consume ingredients abundant in a Standard American Diet (SAD). There have even been instances where people expressed frustration because my dietary needs disrupted their desire for SAD food choices.
I want to emphasize that my many food intolerances are not a mere food preference. When I consume wheat, gluten, or casein, my body reacts adversely, subjecting me to excruciating pain that can linger for days. I am deeply grateful for the understanding and accommodations made by the people in my life during meal times, allowing me to partake in shared meals with family and friends.
I've been asked, "Can't you just cheat once?" The answer is a resounding no because the repercussions have become more severe and longer-lasting over time. Dining out presents additional challenges, as many restaurants lack comprehensive ingredient lists. I often find myself ordering last and prefacing my requests with, "I know I'm going to be a bit picky, but..." before delving into a series of inquiries about ingredients. This can be time-consuming and occasionally embarrassing.
Here are a few tips for dining at restaurants: research the menu in advance, call ahead to inquire about accommodations for your food intolerances, and identify a few local restaurants that cater to your dietary needs. Having multiple options allows you to enjoy a meal without discomfort while also providing food choices for your companions.
In my local area, I've found numerous restaurants offering gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, shellfish-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, with dedicated menu items for those with allergies or intolerances. When people ask me, "What can you actually eat?" my response is now simple: most whole foods. Although I still grapple with the stigma surrounding food intolerances, I've grown more resilient. My focus lies firmly on my own health and wellness, and I am unwilling to compromise my well-being and endure pain just to satisfy the desires of those around me who may encourage me to "cheat" or insist on SAD dietary choices. I am immensely grateful for the understanding and kindness I now receive from my friends and family.
Life and Health Coach - Lindsay Richter
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