I’ve been accommodating 11+ food allergies/intolerances for the past 2 years. Adjusting to this lifestyle has been a journey filled with anxiety attacks, deep grief, confusion, frustration, and a lot of really insensitive comments. I’ve spent hours cooking meals only to find that they’d still make me sick. I’ve cried so many tears while eating the same bland meal, gagging it down praying I my body would tolerate it.
So much bonding and celebration and comfort lie in the food we eat and the people with whom we share it. I’ve had to rush home to cook dinner when I’d rather be out enjoying a meal out with friends. I’ve awkwardly brought full meals to gatherings, not able to eat what others have prepared. Traveling away from my kitchen has been nearly impossible.
It has been incredibly challenging to navigate this new food landscape, especially since I love food and eating so much. And I love eating with friends.
Thankfully, I am finding more moments to celebrate–like making a perfectly edible batch of banana bread muffins (after a dozen trials and errors). And significantly fewer flare ups. And more delicious meals and treats. Not to mention the creative outlet I find in the kitchen. I truly love to cook and explore and experiment. I feel honored to be able to treat my body well, to show up for myself, and take good care of myself through the food that I eat.
Maybe you know someone who is in my shoes, overwhelmed by what they can’t eat. Maybe you want to make an allergen-free treat for a guest. Maybe you are trying to eat a little more mindfully. Feel free to reach out if you need some support. I gotchu.