It seems Hollywood has gone sans gluten, from Elisabeth Hasselbeck to Gwyneth Paltrow. For some, the gluten-free diet isn’t just a fad, but a necessity, especially for those diagnose with Celiac Disease (CD).
Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder that reacts when gluten, the protein in wheat, barley, and rye, is consumed. Repeatedly ingesting gluten weakens the immune system react and destroys the part of the small intestine that absorbs vital nutrients. This can develop into long-term complications the longer a person goes undiagnosed or untreated, such as malnutrition, lymphoma, osteoporosis, neurological complications and miscarriages
Celiac Disease is not rare. One in 133 is affected, but most have not been diagnosed because they were told their symptoms were either IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) or related to food intolerances. There is a 1 and 22 chance of having the disease if a first-degree relative was diagnosed with CD.
The symptoms of CD vary from person to person but are often manifested in bloating, gas, diarrhea, weight loss or gain, constant fatigue or weakness, headaches, infertility, depression in spite of medication, abdominal pain, bone pain and anemia. In many children, symptoms may include failure to thrive, short stature distended abdomen, dental enamel defects and unusual behavior changes.
If CD is suspected, the doctor will order a series of tests, such as a blood test and a biopsy of the small bowel to detect damage to the lining. It is advisable that a person should not begin a gluten-free diet until tests are completed because it may alter the results of the tests.
Once CD is confirmed, then immediate treatment of a strict gluten-free diet is proscribed. A gluten-free diet is a lifetime commitment. A dietitian can teach about food selection, label reading and other ways to manage CD. When gluten is abstained, the healing of the small intestine begins and a return to full health can be expected.
Finding gluten-free cookbooks and visiting support groups in the community, like the Phoenix Celiac Support Group in Phoenix, or online blogs helps the transition to a gluten-free diet. Education is the first step to accepting CD as a new way of life, not an obstacle to overcome.
Must reads:
How to eat out on a gluten free diet
More information:
http://www.life123.com/food/vegetarian-vegan/gluten-free/celiac-disease-101.shtml
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