New to this...

Hi Everyone,
I was diagnosed last week and while I'm delighted that I now know what has been wrong with me for years (I'm 25), I'm struggling a bit with getting my head around the diagnosis, and the diet. My doc is referring me to the Coeliac's Clinic in Tallaght, but I haven't got an appointment yet. Has anyone been there? Is it good?
Another thing I'm confused about is the labels on some food packages. Some items claim to be gluten free or suitable for Coeliacs, but then contain MSG which I've been told must be avoided. Does this get any easier?
I would appreciate any advice that anyone can give me as I'm feeling pretty alone in this.
Thanks
regand

Maybe you have to avoid MSG for some other reason, but coeliac disease is not a reason to avoid MSG. Many people say we should all avoid it anyway, but that as I say is a separate problem.

Your best port of call is the coeliac society, with membership and its handbook. The 'rules' you need to follow to get to full health are not actually that complex. They appear to be, but are easily learned, and it is very much worth it.

The next thing to do is to spend a little time every day going through old posts on this site. Don't do too much at once. Copy out interesting posts and paste them into a document that will contain hints and tips you can identify with. No point in reading about restaurants in places you never visit, or recipes for things you never eat.

Save your document and keep adding to it as time goes by.

Enjoy your new diet!

That's a brilliant idea,
Thanks a million for the advice.
I've sent off the application to join the society so hopefully I'll get the 'bible' soon.
Thanks again. Smile

Hi and welcome,

The clinic in Tallaght hospital is where you will be seen and monitored (on a yearly basis in my case) by a doctor. Prior to your appointment, you will have to go to the hospital for a blood test. The results will be then reviewed by the doctor in the clinic. The wait can be long sometimes (2-3 hours) but in general it's fine and you will be able to have a chat to other coeliacs. Good luck.