Julianne's Health Corner: Gluten Intolerance & Celiac Disease

In this installment of my Health Hubs, I wanted to focus on gluten intolerance and when a gluten-free diet might actually be appropriate. For the last several years, we have heard much ado about living a gluten-free lifestyle. However, what some may not realize is that a gluten-free diet is a lifestyle that is truly meant for a specific segment of the population.

Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease

Gluten intolerance is the cause of celiac disease. Celiac disease occurs as a result of gluten, a protein composite, damaging the intestinal lining. Damage in the intestinal lining ultimately impacts the absorption of nutrients like vitamins and minerals from food that allows the body to function properly. What's the result? Malnutrition.

Where Is Gluten Found?

Gluten is found in barley, rye and wheat. Just think of the degree of impact this could have on one's day to day diet.

What are the Symptoms of Celiac Disease?

Diagnosing celiac disease is said to be somewhat difficult because the symptoms can be linked to so many other conditions. Some of the symptoms include:

• Abdominal Pain, bloating, gas
• Nausea and vomiting
• On and off constipation and diarrhea
• Unexplained weight loss

Who is at Risk?

Genetics play a role in identifying who may be at risk for this condition.

Are There Tests to Diagnose Celiac Disease?

Your doctor can perform a blood test known as antitissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTGA) or anti-endomysium antibodies (EMA). According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, if you test positive, an endoscopy may be performed to complete a biopsy of the intestinal lining to confirm the diagnosis.

Is it Curable?

According to many of the healthcare experts, Celiac disease is manageable but not really cureable. A gluten-free diet, meaning foods and drinks that do not contain rye, wheat or barley, can assist with minimizing symptoms associated with celiac disease. This allows the intestinal wall to heal. Utlimately, celiacs have to stay vigilant in their review of food and drink labels.

The Link to Other Conditions

Believe it or not, people with celiac disease may be more prone to other conditions such as:

1. Type 1 Diabetes
2. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
3. Autoimmune Thyroid Disease
4. Autoimmune Liver Disease
5. Rheumatoid Arthritis

What's in a Diet?

Unless otherwise stated, one should keep in mind that the following foods often contain gluten:

1. Beers
2. Breads
3. Candies
4. Cakes and pies
5. Cereals
6. Cookies
7. Crackers
8. Croutons
9. Gravies
10. Imitation meats or seafood
11. Oats
12. Pastas
13. Processed luncheon meats
14. Salad dressings
15. Sauces (including soy sauce)
16. Self-basting poultry
17. Soups

Here are a few examples of foods that are generally gluten-free:

1. Fresh meats, fish and poultry (not breaded, batter-coated or marinated)
2. Fruits
3. Most dairy products
4. Potatoes
5. Rice
6. Vegetables
7. Wine and distilled liquors, ciders and spirits

Finally, individuals with this condition may need to take supplements to ensure they are taking in adequate levels of vitamins and minerals.

For more information on celiac disease, visit any of the following websites:

1. http://www.celiac.org/
2. www.gluten.net
3. www.csaceliacs.org