Gem Jones

I was diagnosed with coeliac just over two years ago now. For the most part it's been rubbish. I love food. I really really love it and I hate fussy people. So having to be someone with a restricted diet who makes a fuss in restaurants is a tough one.

However it has been worth it. I feel a lot better and I'm young enough to undo all of the long term damage to my body. The symptoms of coeliac are really varied and my life changed in ways I couldn't have expected after going gluten free. Aside from the ease in bloating, nausea and cramps I have much more energy, less headaches, better moods, I can lift heavy things (sort of... that's a lie, but heavier things for sure).

Anyway. It's a condition that should be taken seriously. I don't know much about gluten intolerance which is a different thing. But faddish or not, cutting down on gluten can be no bad thing as long as you're filling up on good replacement carbs- of which there are many. Whenever I cook for friends they always enjoy it and certanly don't miss the gluten- they usually have more room for pudding and beer as well. bonus. god i miss beer.

I spend my time between Brighton and London but my job (luckily) often requires me to travel. This lifestyle means I am forever researching, phoning, emailing, and generally battling to find out where and what I can eat. So I've decided to make what I find out public so others can benefit.

Gluten free listings still don't seem to be very thorough. The upside is that I have found tons of local, independent, interesting options that can easily cater for me with a little guidance. Many of the big chains now advertise clearly on menus and websites that they do 'gf' which is great. But it would be just wonderful for other smaller places to follow their example. I'm sure they would get more custom and usually if a place can do gf easily it's a good indication they cook fresh, from scratch, well sourced food.

I won't be posting many recipes as I don't follow them and there are so many sites out there already. But I am crap at making packed lunch for work so I might post some good convenience food.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy the blog and find it useful. I'm happy to talk to anyone who has recently been diagnosed and might need some (unofficial) support, or maybe you have a coeliac coming for dinner (eek), or if you run any sort of catering establishment and have some questions- get in touch!