I'm not sure if I am getting more sensitive as I get older, or if I'm just becoming more aware of my sensitivities, but you can't deny the reality of swollen gums and a tongue rash. There's something about physical symptoms that really make you wake up and take notice. It's as if my body has finally had enough of my wallowing self-pity, denial, self-deception and has come up with something I just can't ignore. It's time to start taking this sensitivity thing seriously, my body seems to be saying, and start taking care of yourself. Unless you'd care to break out in hives?

Along with the strange fruit and vegetable sensitivity, I also have a sensitivity to sugar, called hypoglycemia. I'm not allergic to it, but if I have too much I'll get a headache and if I don't have enough I'll start acting like an alcoholic on a weekend bender in Monte Carlo until I eventually pass out and fall into a coma. Let's just say it's a fine balance. What this means is that I have to eat small, healthy meals every three hours to keep my blood sugar levels at an even keel and avoid raw sugar and processed foods. I try to see it as Nature's way of keeping me healthy. When I was first diagnosed with this condition, I saw a dietician who suggested some healthy snacks. How about carrot and celery sticks with peanut butter? she said. Or an apple and some almonds? Oh dear.
While my sensitivity does mean that I have to bring a suitcase-sized lunch bag to work every day, my menu planning requires military strategy and I can't visit a grocery store without earplugs, rubber gloves and a helmet, I've learned to take it in my stride. I can still enjoy the sweet smell of apples and the beautiful autumn colours. As long as I'm not too cold and it's not too crowded, I've had a protein snack in the last forty-five minutes and I haven't touched any fruit-bearing alder trees. Wait, somebody get my antihistamines.