Five Days In...

Over the weekend I experienced uncontrollable itching on my scalp, back, and neck.  Additionally, hives presented themselves in the same areas.  And as always, this was in conjunction with my uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms.  The itching has been a symptom I didn't connect to my other symptoms.  I simply tried to relieve it with Benadryl.  I've been doing research daily on gluten-free diets:  What can I eat?  What about cross-contamination?  How long before I see relief?  CAN I STILL EAT AT GRANITE CITY?? (I certainly can't eat their fries and GC dip, which is uh-mazing.)  The answer to this question is obviously, not really.


Some conclusions I have drawn during the beginning of this endeavor:
1. Gluten-free is expensive.  


2. Losing weight happens quickly, although this may be because my caloric intake is pretty low thus far.


3. Gluten-free pretzels are too thick to enjoy.


4. According to much of my reading, this diet may take 2-4 months to show relief?  Am I wasting my time?? At best, remaining completely gluten-free for 2 weeks is the earliest people experience any relief with gastrointestinal or skin symptoms.  For others, the results seem daunting. 


5.  My husband makes the most mouth-watering, delicious asparagus ever.  (I've had copious amounts every night, leading to aspara-pee.)


I've been living on tons of fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, gluten-free crackers, salsa, and cilantro.  I'm reading more about appropriate MEAL options.


I called my allergist today to discuss food allergies; mostly because of my hives and itching.  I was referred to my primary care physician, who referred me to an allergist.  And the circle continues.  We are responsible for our own health care.  We are our own advocates.  I feel blessed to have a physician at Mayo who cares.


Speaking of which....


My doctor at Mayo INSISTED I read the book In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan.  As a matter of fact, he told me he didn't want to speak with me again until I read the book (probably because he told me to read this selection months ago, and I neglected the assignment.)  So, I've been dragging myself through the book.  While I haven't finished the book, it contains some scary information about the industrialization of food.  I won't get into the details, as you can choose to read the book independently.  However, in conjunction with gluten-free, I'm attempting to watch preservatives.  Good grief.  I'll come back to this book at a later date.


And to end my evening blog, I quote, "But in some cases, the study found, HSAs reduce preventive care- high deductibles deter people from costly medical tests regardless of the necessity of screenings."  I won't get into insurance politics, or union issues.  But I'll allow anyone who reads my blog to ponder this sentiment for a while.