In today's fast paced world of super markets and take out meals it is near impossible to guarantee that all the food a patient with celiac disease or gluten intolerance will be gluten free. While some are okay with the occasional cross contamination, others react very strongly with a myriad of symptoms. For many who are gluten sensitive the worst symptoms attack the digestive tract. Although is is difficult to eliminate these symptoms completely, some of the discomfort can be eased by following a few simple steps.
Take activated charcoal
Activated charcoal is a commonly used remedy for flatulence. It works by absorbing chemicals and trapping them in it's porous structure, therefore preventing your body from absorbing any unwanted chemicals. While there have not been any direct studies between the use of charcoal and gluten contamination, there have been many anecdotal reports of it helping individuals with celiac disease who have been contaminated. While it is unclear if the relief comes from the charcoal absorbing the gluten itself, or from it absorbing chemicals that cause normal digestive upset, many find relief when they use it at the first sign of symptoms.
Add L-Glutamine to your daily vitamin mix
Scott Berliner, RPh states that L-Glutamine is not only an ideal vitamin to take after a work out, but it can even be used to heal a "leaky gut", an issue commonly experienced by gluten sensitive people. He further states that the unusual amino acid is the sole amino acid that has two amine groups and one of these is the source of it's intestinal healing power. For more information on L-Glutamine and his specific dosage reccomendation visit his article here.
Take papaya enzymes after meals
Digestive enzymes have been used for years to conter affect the symptoms of lactose intolerance, for some they can also have an affect when contaminated by gluten. Natural papaya enzymes contain papain, an enzyme that helps break down proteins into peptides. Because of gluten's protein nature papain has been found to be particularly effective to alleviate the symptoms of a gluten contamination. The enzyme can be found most commonly in tablet form, and many people enjoy it's slightly fruity taste.
Add probiotics to your routine
While probiotics can be found both in yogurt and in yogurt drinks such as kefir, you can also buy them in tablet form. Probiotics are good bacteria that have been know to help promote digestive health for some time. The most commonly found probiotics are acidophilus and bifidus. You can usually find them in a refrigerated section of your local health foods store, but they can occasionally be found in forms that can be kept at room temperature.
Find a form of ginger you like
While ginger cannot heal you stomach, it can be used to make an upset stomach feel more settled. There are many ways to enjoy ginger, and it can be found almost anywhere. You can chew ginger candy, drink ginger tea, or find a strong ginger brew you like. Just be careful what kind of ginger ale you buy. Most cheaper brands of ginger ale have artificial ginger flavoring, to reap the benefits make sure you are getting the real deal.
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