NuGo Fan of the Month: Secrets of Celiac

Secrets of Celiac is a new gluten-free website that was started earlier this year by Lauren and Becca, two sixth grade girls with celiac disease. Based on their own experiences, they want to help other kids overcome the challenges of growing up with celiac disease. Lauren and Becca met about two years ago when Becca moved to the DC metro area.

In kindergarten, Lauren was diagnosed with celiac disease. While Lauren has a positive outlook today about gluten-free life, she remembers one of the things she was most upset about when she was first diagnosed was not being able to have cookies and cream ice cream. “One reason I helped create Secrets of Celiac is to help other kids and parents get through the tough first months of being gluten-free,” said Lauren.

About a year ago, Lauren’s mom asked her if she wanted to try a gluten-free chocolate covered pretzel bar. Lauren was excited to try it, and has been in love with NuGo since the first bite. Her two favorite flavors are NuGo Dark Chocolate Pretzel and Mint Chocolate Chip. She eats them whenever she needs a chocolate fix as well as in between activities. “The thing I like best about NuGo bars is that they are super filling and taste good, so they are great for when I'm on the run,” said Lauren.

At the age of nine, Becca was diagnosed with celiac disease. She had a difficult time adjusting to gluten-free life and finding food she liked. “I wanted to start Secrets of Celiac in order to help other people find gluten-free foods and recipes they will enjoy,” said Becca.

Three years ago, Becca tried her first gluten-free NuGo bar and now eats NuGo Dark 4-5 times per week. She often packs them in her lunch. Becca's favorite flavors are NuGo Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip and Peanut Butter Cup. She said, “I like how NuGo bars have so much protein and are still super yummy.”

Becca loves designing and drawing and is hoping to become an architect. She currently plays soccer on a local team. Lauren plays tennis. She is planning on being a doctor.

Lauren and Becca also help run a group in the DC metro area called Gluten Free Buddies, in conjunction with the Celiac Disease Program at Children's National Medical Center. In this group, they pair up kids with other gluten-free kids of about the same age and run events. Visit Secrets of Celiac, and follow them on Instagram and Facebook.