Food is everywhere. Family meals, birthday cakes, the smell from a café, adverts on the television, friends asking "shall we grab something to eat?". When you cannot eat at all, or can only eat a little, the world can feel like it was built without you in mind.
There is no trick that makes this easy. These are things that have helped me and others.
Plan for the big occasions
If you know a meal or party is coming, decide beforehand how you want to handle it. You might go for part of it, arrive after the food, or ask to sit somewhere with a bit of space. It is your choice, and it can change from one day to the next.
Tell the people close to you
Most people do not know what to say, so they say nothing, or something clumsy. A few words from you can help: "I'd love to come. Please don't worry about the food side, I just want to be with you."
Bring something to do with your hands
A drink if you are allowed one, a camera, a game with the children, helping with the washing up. Being busy can take the focus off the table.
Make new traditions
Not every get together has to be about food. A walk, a film night, a day out or a quiz are things everyone can share.
Give yourself permission
It is alright to leave early, to say no, or to feel angry or sad. It is alright to grieve food. Those feelings are normal, and talking about them with people who understand really does help.
Remember: you are not being difficult. You are living with something most people never have to think about.