Gluten Free Tags

Celiac Disease
According to the National Institutes of Health, 3 million Americans have celiac disease. Celiac disease (CD) is an immune disorder in which gluten damages the lining of the small intestine. Symptoms may include digestive problems such as diarrhea and bloating as well as fatigue, joint pain, depression, anemia, low bone density and weight gain or loss. The only treatment for celiac disease is a life-long gluten-free diet. The good news is that this way of eating helps to heal the small intestine and alleviate the symptoms. A gluten-free diet is also used for gluten intolerance and, with reported success, for conditions such as autism and ADHD. If you have both celiac disease and diabetes, be aware that gluten-free breads, pasta and snacks may not have the same amount of carbohydrate as regular products. A registered dietitian/nutritionist can help you identify gluten-free foods and plan a nutritionally balanced gluten-free diet.

How to Find Gluten-Free Foods
There are plenty of naturally gluten-free foods which will provide the nutrients you need to stay healthy. The best way to stay gluten-free is to choose fresh foods and cook from scratch as much as possible.

See the Gluten-Free Shopping List and our list of gluten-containing foods and ingredients to avoid.

Visit our Gluten-Free Resources page for great books, magazines, websites and recipes to help you understand more about living gluten-free. Following a strict gluten-free diet when not medically prescribed poses a significant risk for inadequate intake of folic acid, B vitamins, iron, calcium, vitamin D and fiber. Your physician can order testing to determine if you have celiac disease and need to follow a gluten-free diet. As with any health related condition, consult your physician first, prior to any dietary changes.