My Gluten Free Story

I thought I would share my story of why I am Gluten Free. First, let me start by saying that I am not a doctor. I’m not a medical professional. I am in no way giving advice or trying to help anyone diagnose themselves or a loved one! I’m merely sharing my story as a way to connect with my readers so they may understand why I eat gluten free.

Fifteen years ago, I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. I remember being at my annual checkup and my doctor noticing my Thyroid Gland was abnormally large. I had no idea what or where my Thyroid Gland was and was slightly insulted that he said it was large! HA! After blood tests, ultrasound and a nuclear iodine uptake scan, I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. What does that have to do with being gluten free? Well, the next part of my story often goes hand and hand with a thyroid disorder.

Eight years ago, I started getting an incredibly itchy rash on the backs of my legs. It spread to my shins and sides. My first thought was I had somehow gotten some communicable disease or something from the gym since I had been working out daily.

No, it was worse! Dermatitis Herpetiformis, an autoimmune disease that sends antibodies to your skin if you consume gluten and in some rare cases, when you consume dairy as well. Guess why my recipes are gluten free AND dairy free. Yep! I have the same autoimmune response when I consume dairy as well.

The absolute best explanation of Dermatitis Herpetiformis I have found can be read here. It’s a great post by The Celiac Scene.

I eat a very strict gluten free and dairy free diet. I don’t force my family to eat gluten free but I try to make meals we can all enjoy! My hope in creating this blog, Gluten Free Farm Wife, I can share recipes with others. Nothing makes me happier than sharing my gluten free recipes!

If you have any questions about anything gluten free, dairy free, farm life, or want to share your story with me, please email me directly at jamie@glutenfreefarmwife.com! I’d love to hear from you!