In this series, we feature the incredible stories of individuals who have learned to navigate life with a gluten free lifestyle, turning their challenges into triumphs and becoming advocates for others in the community.
In this issue, we are excited to introduce you to Cate, better known as @catethecoeliac on Instagram. Diagnosed at just 9 years old, Cate has spent the last 15 years adapting to a gluten-free lifestyle and becoming a trusted voice within the coeliac community. From navigating school life with dietary restrictions to finding safe places to eat out, Cate’s story is full of valuable insights and practical advice.
Join us as Cate shares her journey, offering her personal experiences, tips, and encouragement for anyone managing life with a gluten free diet.
Introducing… Cate the Coeliac
Hey, my name is Cate but I am known as @catethecoeliac on Instagram. I have had coeliac disease for 15 years.
Can you share your diagnosis story and how you first discovered you had coeliac disease?
I found out I had coeliac when I was just 9 years old. My parents started to notice how tired I was (I was a very hyper child so this was extremely un
usual) and I was having awful stomach pains and diarrhoea regularly. They decided to take me to my GP who tested me on a dairy free diet first. This didn’t work so I was sent for blood tests in hope to reveal any issues. Two of my cousins had been diagnosed with coeliac disease at the time, but their granny (not from my side of the family) had coeliac, so we assumed it was unlikely. My tests came back positive (my mum found out after through bloods that she also has the gene and my granny now has it, so we know the link!)
What was the most challenging part of the diagnosis process for you and how did you overcome it?
The most challenging part of diagnosis was being so young, I was 8 years old and about to go to Middle school. I didn’t know how to safely live on a gluten free diet and had to think about how to manage school dinners and food technology lessons, birthday parties and school trips. Learning from stratch can be so hard when you are so use to living a gluten lifestyle, it takes some adjusting, especially as a child. But with help from family members, Coeliac uk and my GP, over time we learnt how to make it the new normal, and now I don’t even think about it much, it’s just in my normal routine.
You’ve been diagnosed coeliac for 15 years, how has the gluten free space changed in that time?
Over the past 15 years the gluten free space has changed SO MUCH. When I was first diagnosed you would only buy gluten fre biscuits and bread from health shops or on prescription (which I was lucky enough to get for free as a child, it included bread, biscuits, flour and a lot more cupboard items). Overtime the amount we got lessened but while that lessened the supermarkets finally put free from items on their shelves! And over the past few years the amount you can get is incredible, just wish I had this from when I was first diagnosed.
How do you handle eating out at restaurants? Where are your favourite places to eat?
Eating out at restaurants can be a daunting experience. I usually go to the places I know because I know it’s safe and I feel comfortable there. For example, The Lounges, Leon, Honest Burger and 100% gluten free places. If I’m trying somewhere new I always check the Find me Gluten Free App and check the reviews on there and on Google and see what people say about it being Coeliac safe NOT gluten free as these are too seperate things entirely. I also check Instagram asking my followers and people I follow if they have tried it before. Then if I see good reviews I call and ask questions about how they cook the food, if they use a dedicated gluten free area, if they have a gluten free fryer. If I am happy with the answers I will go but before I order I will ask the same questions to ensure that they are knowledgeable about what they are saying and that makes me feel fully comfortable with eating there.
Have you encountered any misconceptions about coeliac disease or the gluten free diet from others? How do you address them?
A misconception I get regularly is ‘if you have a tiny bit, you will be okay’. As soon as I get this kind of answer I always ensure to tell them that they are wrong and that coeliacs cannot eat any gluten, or be contaminated with it otherwise they will cause life long damage and potentially other conditions in the future.
What tips do you have for traveling while maintaining a gluten-free diet?
When travelling the most important thing is to research research research. Always look in advance before travelling. I know it’s annoying that you cannot be really spontaneous, but it’s more important that you can find safe food then nothing at all! If you know there is nothing in the place your going you know to pack lots of food or to book a place that has a kitchen so you can make your own food from scratch. Like I said above, use the resources around you for help, there are some amazing websites, apps and Instagram accounts that will be so helpful for your travels. I have been to many countries over the last few years and I can truely say researching in advance is the most important and helpful thing to do.
What is your favourite breakfast, lunch and dinner?
My favourite breakfast is either waffles with Nutella, eggy bread or tesco chocolate pillow cereal. My favorite lunch in avocado chilli flakes on toast or a toastie. My favourite dinner is a classic roast diner or chicken and leek pie!
What resources have you found most helpful?
I recommend Coeliac UK (of course!!!), Becky Excell, Howtocoeliac, glutenfree guide, glutenfreeblogger, philhatesgluten, Glutenfreestreetgang and the Find Me Gluten Free App. And just the good old Internet!!
Follow Cate the Coeliac
Instagram @catethecoeliac
Tiktok @catethecoeliac
Threads @catethecoeliac
Email catethecoeliac@gmail.com
Cate’s journey is an inspiring example of how coeliac disease, while challenging, can be managed with resilience and support. By sharing her story, Cate not only raises awareness about coeliac disease but also empowers others to live confidently and safely. We hope you find her experiences both relatable and motivating as you continue your own journey.
Stay tuned for more stories in our Coeliac Superheroes series, where we continue to highlight the strength and spirit of the coeliac community.
