#15: The Emotional Side of Going Gluten-Free: Grief, Anger & Getting Your Joy Back
No one really talks about this part.
Yes, we talk about gluten-free baking, hidden ingredients, meal planning, and restaurant tips—but what about the emotional rollercoaster of going gluten-free?
The grief of letting go of your favorite foods. The anger of being dismissed by doctors. The overwhelm of feeling like a burden in social situations.
In today’s episode, I’m getting personal and honest about the emotional side of going gluten-free—from the initial grief and frustration, to the moments of joy and healing on the other side.
Let's Recap: Going Gluten-Free — Grief, Anger & Getting Your Joy Back
The Grief Is Real (And You're Not Overreacting)
Going gluten-free is a loss—not just of foods, but of spontaneity, ease, and “normalcy.”
Grief stages are real: denial, anger, bargaining, sadness, acceptance.
You might grieve:
Favorite meals & restaurants
The ease of eating with others
Cultural traditions you can no longer take part in
Feeling safe around food
Feeling “included” and carefree
The Anger No One Warns You About
Anger at how long it took to get diagnosed
Anger at friends/family who just don’t get it
Frustration at being dismissed, doubted, or told it’s ‘just a fad’
Resentment at having to think so hard about something that used to be simple
That moment when someone tells you “a little gluten won’t hurt” 😤
The Loneliness & Guilt That Sneaks In
Feeling awkward at parties, restaurants, family dinners
Saying no to invitations because it’s easier than explaining again
Guilt when you’re the “complicated” one
Worry about being seen as dramatic or high-maintenance
Struggling with self-trust: “Did I mess up? Am I being too cautious?”
Feeling like food is no longer fun
Finding Joy Again (Yes, It Comes Back)
Joy in discovering new favorite foods and safe go-to meals
The empowerment of advocating for yourself
The feeling of being clear-headed, healthy, and pain-free
Finding your people—online communities, podcasts (like this one!), GF friends
Rediscovering cooking as a form of self-care
Rewriting traditions in your own way
The small moments that matter:
A perfect loaf of GF bread
A safe restaurant experience
Your child saying, “This tastes just like the real thing!”
Takeaways
Going gluten-free is not just physical—it’s deeply emotional
Grief, anger, guilt, and isolation are normal
Give yourself grace: you're allowed to feel all of it
There is healing on the other side—and you’re not alone
This journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress, empowerment, and peace
