The final countdown

I am counting down the days now until I go gluten-free. On Saturday I go for my endoscopy (I have already tested positive on a blood test and there is also a family history of Coeliacs). My doctor says I can then start cutting gluten out of my diet but I will also need help from a dietician. Hopefully the dietician will give me lots of help and advice because at the moment I am feeling a bit daunted and overwhelmed by the whole thing!

The good thing is hopefully no more exhaustion, lethargy, persistent sore throat, swollen glands, headaches, and dizziness! I have been suffering for about 8 months with these symptoms and I can't wait to feel better! At first my GP thought I had glandular fever, then it was M.E. (or  Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and it was only last month that they found out I was a Coeliac. It's weird, but I have only recently begun to suffer with stomach symptoms.  Has anybody else had a similar experience of hardly any or even no stomach symptoms?

In the meantime I have begun to think about changing my diet and the steps I will need to take. There are so many things to think about. It's going to be a big lifestyle change and I know I won't be able to eat all the things I love to eat now. I have many questions too:

• What am I actually going to be able to eat?
• Am I going to be able to go out for meals with friends/family?
•  Is it expensive buying gluten-free products in supermarkets?
• Can I get any food on prescription?
• Am I going to be restricted when I go on holiday (especially abroad) as to what food I can eat?
• How many restaurants are out there that cater for Coeliacs? And can you really trust the chef to prepare the food properly too?

I guess only time will tell.

I am still researching and learning about my new way of life so I'd love to hear your experiences too.