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A passionate foodie, home cook, and gluten-free explorer, Daria is on a mission to find the best gluten-free options in unexpected places. She recently started her Instagram page, @findingglutenfreeuk, to document her journey and connect with others in the gluten-free community.
Introducing Daria
Hey! I’m Daria Siokalo, I’m 27 and I am a trainee solicitor based in Liverpool. I was diagnosed with celiac disease in June 2024.
I am a big foodie, a passionate home cook, and someone who loves hunting down gluten-free finds in unexpected places. I only recently started my page, so it is still growing, but I am really enjoying sharing my journey and connecting with others in the gluten-free community.
Life Before Darias Coeliac Diagnosis
Carefree! I never realised how much effort actually goes into something as simple as grabbing a bite to eat. Before my diagnosis, I could just walk into any cafe, order whatever sounded good, and that was that. Now it is a full process. Checking menus, reading reviews, calling ahead, and hoping the restaurant actually understands what coeliac means. Traveling also requires way more research than I ever expected, and I have definitely learned the hard way that not everywhere is as gluten-free friendly as they claim to be!
When Did Daria First Suspect Coeliac Disease?
It all started with a really bad rash on my back, which was initially misdiagnosed as eczema and psoriasis. But something did not feel right, so I started doing my own research and came across dermatitis herpetiformis. It is a skin condition that only affects about ten percent of people with coeliac disease. When I saw photos, it looked exactly like what I had.
At the same time, I was dealing with constant brain fog, migraines, and extreme tiredness. I was deep in my solicitor qualifying exams, so I assumed the exhaustion was just from stress and studying. But once I connected all the dots, I went to my GP, got tested, and a couple of weeks later, coeliac disease was confirmed.
Adapting to Gluten-Free Life
Not going to lie, it was tough at first. I had no idea how many foods actually contain gluten. Spoiler alert, it is a lot. In the beginning, I only shopped in the gluten-free section because I was too nervous to venture anywhere else. But over time, I realised gluten-free products are scattered all over the store, and the dedicated “free-from” aisle is often just overpriced versions of things you can find elsewhere.
Learning how to shop smarter and cook more at home has made a huge difference, and now gluten-free life feels much more manageable!
Darias Gluten Free Instagram
I have always been a massive foodie, and I love discovering new things. Whether it is a hidden gluten-free gem in a supermarket or a new recipe I have created in my kitchen. I started @findingglutenfreeuk as a way to document my journey, share my favourite finds, and hopefully make things a little easier for anyone else going through the same thing. My page is still small and growing slowly, but I love being part of the gluten-free community and connecting with others who just get it.
Best Gluten-Free Resources
Megan McKenna’s TikTok (@MeganMcKenna)
I loved following her when I was first diagnosed, her recommendations really helped!
Find Me Gluten Free App
An absolute lifesaver when looking for coeliac-safe restaurants, especially when traveling!
Biggest Misconceptions About Coeliac Disease
Let’s set the record straight.
1. No, I can’t “just have a little bit.” Not even a crumb. And no, I can’t “just eat the filling and leave the pastry.” Yes, people have actually suggested this. It is really not worth getting sick over!
2. It is not an allergy, it is an autoimmune disease. My body literally attacks itself when I eat gluten. It is not just a bit of bloating or a stomachache, it can make me really unwell.
3. Gluten-free is not just a trend or a diet choice. Some people think going gluten-free is just the latest health craze, but for people with coeliac disease, it is a medical necessity. I am not avoiding gluten to be “healthier” or to follow a fad, I have to do it to stay well.
Handling Social Situations and Dinner Parties
I am really lucky that my friends are super understanding. One of my best friends was actually diagnosed before me, so she has been a huge help in navigating everything. The people closest to me know what I can and cannot eat, and they always make an effort, which I really appreciate.
Cooking for My Partner Who Eats Gluten
He eats gluten-free with me most of the time, and honestly, he does not even notice! I always try to make sure the meals are just as good, if not better, than the gluten-filled versions, so there is no need for him to have a separate meal. Plus, there are so many great gluten-free alternatives these days that it is really not a big deal!
Traveling with Coeliac Disease
Traveling takes a bit more planning, but it is totally doable! My must-dos before a trip.
• TripAdvisor deep dive – I check hotel reviews specifically for their breakfast options because let’s be real, a sad piece of fruit is not a proper meal.
• Find Me Gluten Free app – A must for finding coeliac-safe restaurants.
• Emergency snacks – I always pack something just in case. There is nothing worse than being stuck somewhere with no safe options.
Final Thoughts
Coeliac disease completely changed the way I eat, travel, and plan my life, but honestly, it has made me a better cook, a smarter shopper, and way more aware of what I am putting into my body. If you are newly diagnosed, I know it can feel overwhelming at first, but trust me, it gets easier. There is an amazing gluten-free community out there, and you are definitely not alone.
You can follow my gluten-free adventures over at @findingglutenfreeuk. I would love to connect with you!
