I have been a vegetarian for almost four years now, but have been wanting to become a vegan for the past year or so. I just couldn't bring myself to do it because it sounded so expensive and time-consuming, but a couple days ago I went to a doctor and got some tests done and found out I am gluten intolerant and lactose intolerant, so now I don't really have a choice. I have had very bad stomach problems since I was little I just never knew what the problem was, and now that I know I can change it I would really like to. So, I was wondering how I could go about my new diet/lifestyle. What kind of foods are out there for gluten intolerant vegans? Are there any websites out there that could be helpful to me? I still live at home and my parents are not willing to pay large amounts of money for food so money is definitely an issue which makes me wonder if this will even work.

I also cannot have soy.

I also have digestive issues and recently decided to go vegan again myself. I was a vegan when I was a teenager for a year or so, but did not have the cooking skills or discipline to eat properly. I happen to love rice, which makes it somewhat easy. The best thing to do is learn how to make baked brown rice as a staple food, and top it with all different kinds of bean, lentil and vegetable dishes! I always make big pots of said dishes and use them throughout the week. Here are a few recipies I used constantly. Anytime something calls for butter, I used a bit of olive, canola or coconut oil (coconut oil is pricey and really good for you, but your parents should have olive oil on hand if you can't afford it)

Mum's Everyday Red Lentils Recipe : Aarti Sequeira : Recipes : Food Network (http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/aarti-sequeira/mums-everyday-red-lentils-recipe/index.html)

Baked Brown Rice Recipe : Alton Brown : Recipes : Food Network (http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/baked-brown-rice-recipe/index.html)

City Kitchen Chronicles: Curried Apple & Lentil Dal (http://cheaphealthygood.blogspot.com/2008/10/city-kitchen-chronicles-in-country-with.html)

I hope that gives you a place to start! Don't forget to stir in a handful of shredded dark greens (kale, spinach, swiss chard or collard greens all work well) for extra nutrients!