A thousand thoughts swirled through my head. You have got to be kidding me! No wheat? No gluten? And while we’re at it, what exactly is gluten?

It was January 2009 and this 24 year-old was just given far more than she bargained for. You see, I’ve been allergic to oranges since birth, a lacto-ovo vegetarian since I was a tween, and against my better judgment just can’t get over the texture of mushrooms. Not being able to consume wheat or gluten felt like a prison sentence, or so I thought.

I had no idea what to eat but when I did steer clear of wheat and gluten, the bloating, the pain, the misery, the constant hunger, and worst of all, the persistent flatulence was gone. And, that my friends, was worth every sacrifice.

I won’t lie! I have cheated. It’s not something I’m proud of but it does happen. I think of it like falling off the wagon. The dietary restrictions are hardest for me in social situations – weddings are the worst! Sometimes I just want to feel normal, and, other times, twisted reasoning takes over and I convince myself it will be worth it. The misery that ensues is a reminder that it is not.

I don’t claim to be an expert. I’m a 26 year-old who loves life, struggles with weight, and is just trying to sort this all out.

Nicole Stewart