Set hard boundaries with disrespectful family or friends.
Some people mean well when they question you about your gluten-free diet. Others may be less well-intentioned and may not be respectful or caring. Remind yourself that your health is important, particularly when faced with doubt or pushback from others. Your requests for food information and food safety are critical to your health, no matter what anyone else may think.
If someone makes cutting remarks on, or questions the validity of, your gluten-free choices, you do not have to engage in conversation with them. Setting boundaries can help create emotional space between hurtful comments and your mental wellbeing. Come up with a “boundary-setting statement,” one that clearly explains your situation, how it makes you feel, and establishes what you’re willing to discuss and what is off limits. An example of such a statement might be:
“Eating gluten-free is a medical necessity for me. I am asking that you not questioning my choices to maintain my personal health.”
People who care about you will understand and respect your boundaries. Others will, hopefully, back off.