Ella Patino

In spring 2021, I received my official diagnosis of celiac disease, marking the end of a journey that began in 2017 when I first noticed troubling symptoms like stomach pain and headaches. Gradually reducing gluten from my diet led me to go fully gluten-free during the Covid pandemic, a decision that eventually led me to seek medical help to address my ongoing stomach issues.

After undergoing blood tests and an upper GI exam, I received confirmation of both celiac disease and IBS, shedding light on the source of my discomfort. The initial challenges included navigating a new dietary landscape and discovering gluten-free brands that suited my taste preferences. Lots of trial and error ensued but avoiding processed gluten-free foods and minimizing seed oils proved instrumental in managing my symptoms.

Two years before my diagnosis, I made the difficult decision to eliminate coffee from my routine due to its adverse effects on my stomach, opting for herbal tea instead. Despite these adjustments, persistent stomach pain prompted further investigation, leading to the discovery of dairy intolerance. While I had already been avoiding dairy, the test results reinforced my commitment to a dairy-free lifestyle to alleviate bloating and discomfort.

Embracing gluten-free and dairy-free cooking and baking became my passion, empowering me to take control of my health by knowing exactly what I put into my body. Regular exercise has also played a vital role in reducing inflammation and promoting overall well-being.

Despite the challenges of dining out, the Covid pandemic brought unexpected connections through a gluten-free support group and the launch of my gluten-free baking page. These outlets have provided invaluable support and camaraderie, helping me feel less isolated and more understood in my journey with celiac disease.

The kindness and guidance of the celiac community have been a constant source of comfort and education, reminding me that I’m not alone in this journey and that together, we can navigate the challenges of living with celiac disease with strength and resilience.