I recently found out that I have a myriad of health issues, but fortunately, most of them have been linked to food allergies that I didn't know I had. Since cutting out those foods plus others that are inflammatory while my gut heals, I have learned and experienced several new things.

1. You will carry your lunch box or small cooler around like a security blanket.

Eating out is SO hard when you have a restricted diet. Get the *coolest* lunch box you can find, and proudly tote it into Chick-fil-a as needed when your friends need food.

2. Tupperware is your BFFL.

Meal prep isn't just for trendy bloggers or body builders. To make sure you have food to eat that won't make your body self-destruct, you have to be prepared.

3. You get really creative in the kitchen.

With a limited number of ingredients, your meal options can become pretty mundane. However, if you're creative and motivated enough, you can modify just about any recipe to fit your dietary needs and culinary jealousy.

4. You feel really bad for your waitstaff at restaurants.

They may smile, and even tell you, "oh, you're fine" when you apologize, but deep down, you know that you are really annoying them. Therefore, you really try to avoid going out to eat.

5. People feel bad eating in front of you.

I hate this. A friend will say, "I feel bad eating this in front of you!" Really, it's ok. I know that I am eating this way because it allows me to have a better life, be healthier, and to have the energy to even be here with you. By all means, go enjoy that cheese covered burger and savor it a little more, just for me.

6. You may happy dance in the grocery store when you find something you can eat.

Whether it's SunButter to replace peanut butter, or a specific brand of gluten free pasta that you love but have trouble finding, these little victories can make you jump for joy.

7. You ALWAYS have snacks.

Again, in that handy-dandy lunch box ( and possibly in your backpack, car, etc. ), you will always have extra, allergen free snacks for times when you need extra food, find yourself in an awkward eating situation where you would otherwise be the only one not eating, or if you blood sugar gets too low.

8. You feel SOOOO much better

You are eating this way for a reason, after all. In my case, it's to heal my entire body and regulate my blood sugar, and I can tell you it definitely makes a difference. Once you cut things that hurt you, you won't even miss them anymore. In my case, gluten, dairy, and several other common foods are like a manipulative boyfriend. Once you realize they're a problem, you don't want to give them up, but when you do, you quickly start to feel so good that you don't even miss them.

So, don't be discouraged friends! Work hard to take care of your body especially if it needs more care than others. After all, you only get one!