It was 3 a.m. and I was up. The chamomile tea wasn’t doing much for my churning stomach. In truth, it was more than a tense tummy issue. For as long as I could remember I had also experienced bouts of irritable bowel, fatigue, headaches, slightly elevated blood pressure. These episodes were mild and, except for the moderate hypertension, would come and go. At first, I attributed these pesky woes to fluctuating hormones, but as time went on and not much changed hormonal ups and downs seemed an unlikely cause. Visits to the doctor didn’t help. My lab work was always normal, and he suggested (to my annoyance) some maladies might simply be the aging process. The idea of blood pressure meds didn’t sit well either.

So, I experimented with vitamins and herbs and probiotics, walked daily, did a bit of yoga and meditation, and gave in to whining now and then. But at 3 a.m. that morning when I was once again wide awake, there was a change. My husband, Jim, shuffled to my chair, bent down, and casually said, “You know, Babe, you’ve explored everything except your diet.”

I’m not a medical person, although I did spend 15 years as a medical assistant. I was well-trained in drawing blood and giving shots, but didn’t learn much about nutrition in those years. Unfortunately, medical doctors aren’t taught much either. From what I’ve read, at least 25 hours of nutritional education are recommended in medical schools with an average of 19.6 hours the norm. Whatever they get, it isn’t enough.

Spurred on by Jim’s comment, I dove into research, and my findings and dietary changes have led me to a healthier mind and body. If you’re not feeling up to par, don’t hesitate to see your doc to rule out anything concerning. And while you’re at it, take a look at what you eat. Diet plays a role in how we feel and maybe in how well we age. A big part of my aging in good spirits journey is about what I eat. My story isn’t a substitute for medical advice, but it’s worth sharing.

 Here’s a brief rundown of my food experience over the last seven years. As mentioned, I started with research. Looking at causes for my issues, I found a multitude of potential red flags that had already been addressed and eliminated by my doctor. What showed up as well was quite a few dietary possibilities. From there, I focused on the various foods, additives, etc. that could be problematic. The list was extensive and intimidating. I was in for the long haul and decided to begin with the protein gluten found in all the grains and various other foods I consumed daily. My first trip to the grocery was an hours long eye-opening experience.

Gluten was everywhere. Grains were a no-brainer, but aisle after aisle reading label after label, I was having to eliminate a great deal of stuff I ate. From salad dressings to sauces to my favorite cookies labels read, “contains wheat.” The good news was there were many gluten-free choices. It was just a matter of educating myself.

After a few weeks of scrutinizing cans, boxes, and various packaging, I had rearranged my diet. Grocery shopping was once again a breeze. Gluten-free pasta, dressings, breads, and cookies along with fresh fruits and veggies went into the cart and a lot of angst went out of my head. Also, the restaurants I frequented served gluten-free meals. You’ll find that most do.

Eating gluten-free has not been a cure-all, but it has done wonders for me in a few important areas. Seven years without gluten has kept my blood pressure numbers within normal limits and the irritable bowel is a thing of the past. Migraines are under control, too. Some issues remain that may be hormone-related, or part of the pesky aging process, but the elimination of one or two annoyances will keep me gluten-free.

We are what we eat is a pretty accurate statement and a few supplements can be helpful, too. Have a chat with your healthcare provider for appropriate advice regarding your specific medical needs. Gluten-free and better health could be in your future.

Carole Marshall is a former newspaper columnist and feature writer for American Profile magazine. Her stories have been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul books. dustywriter89@gmail.com