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Something I have always been humbled to learn about is how people’s daily experiences can differ so much. Be it the difference between a person who wears glasses and a person who does not, to something much broader, it is always interesting to consider what it is like to walk in another’s shoes.

In the discussion of my civic issue topic, there are lots of parts of life that are different for people with food allergies and restrictions. I have experienced this myself, as I have Celiac Disease, which means I must follow a strict gluten-free diet. I have grown up with my sister, who also has Celiac, along with an allergy to peanuts and lupin, and lactose intolerance. Before I experienced these changes myself, I don’t think I paid much thought to what it would be like. 

I have it a bit easier, thanks to the prevalence of gluten-free foods on the market. However, there are still extra things I have to think about in my daily life that may resonate with other people in the food allergy community.

A prime example of this was actually my college choice. Penn State was always at the top of my list, but after touring some other schools and seeing the limited selection of gluten-free food, I was even more eager to be at a school with lots of options (that’s also close home… and my mom’s cooking).

Having a restriction on the food I can eat means that life isn’t quite as spontaneous as it may be for other people. For instance, I have to be careful of the brands I buy of all types of food. Even something that would *technically* not have gluten in it may not be processed in a way suitable for me, like certain brands of oatmeal. 

Also, where for some it may always be an option to grab a quick bite at a restaurant, I have to plan before I can go places. I have found apps like “Find Me Gluten-Free” to be life-savers.

One of the more awkward parts is not being able to accept food that people offer. In COVID times, this is not as much of an issue, but it never feels good to turn a kind gesture down. This is the same for parties and gatherings, where I’ve often had to bring my own food. 

The issue does extend to more severe parts of life. A while back, I read about the situation of an inmate with Celiac who was denied gluten-free food. This can tie into a larger discussion of mistreatment within the prison systems, but is also frightening to see a health condition not properly acknowledged – and a life risked in doing so. 

Celiac Disease has also been tied to mental health issues, due to symptoms before treatment, and even differences that the diet can make in perspective on quality of life.

I promise, though, being gluten-free is not all doom and gloom. I am to the point that my diet does not feel new, and I know I just have to do some things differently to keep myself healthy. 

Restaurants, manufacturers, friends, and family that go out of their way to provide safe options are such a blessing. I really appreciate the things that make life a little bit easier, even if it is small.

My diet has taught me more about how to make things safe for my sister and her allergies, along with other people I come across. Learning more about how you can make something as simple as food more accommodating for others can go such a long way.