Celiac Disease

Wanted to share some information about Celiac Disease with everyone as not everyone knows what it is or has ever even heard of it.

Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder that can occur in genetically predisposed people where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. This can lead to various gastrointestinal symptoms as well as nutrient malabsorption. The treatment involves a lifelong gluten-free diet.

A gluten-free diet is a dietary approach that excludes the protein gluten. This protein is found in wheat, barley, rye, and triticale, as well as any products derived from these grains. People follow a gluten-free diet due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or other health reasons. It typically involves consuming naturally gluten-free foods such as fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, poultry, dairy, and gluten-free grains and starches like rice and quinoa.

Gluten can be found in various unexpected places, so it’s important to keep an eye out for it. Some sneaky spots where gluten might hide include:

• Sauces and gravies
• Processed meats
• Soups and soup bases
• Salad dressings
• Communion wafers
• Beer and malt beverages
• Soy sauce and other condiments

If you are eating gluten free due to having celiac disease please always remember to check the labels and ask about ingredients when dining out to ensure you avoid gluten.

The risk of cross-contamination is significant for individuals sensitive to gluten. Even a small amount of gluten can cause adverse effects in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Cross-contamination can occur through shared cooking equipment, utensils, and surfaces, leading to inadvertent exposure to gluten. It’s important to maintain strict separation of gluten-containing and gluten-free ingredients and to use separate cooking and serving utensils to minimize this risk.

When an individual suffering from celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system responds by causing harm to the lining of the small intestine. This can result in a range of symptoms, including bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. Over time, the recurrent immune reaction can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients and other severe health complications. It is imperative for those with celiac disease to rigorously adhere to a gluten-free diet to effectively manage their condition and prevent enduring damage. Indeed, it is feasible for individuals with celiac disease to be overweight. Although weight loss is a prevalent symptom of untreated celiac disease, there are instances where individuals are overweight or obese at the time of diagnosis. This can be attributed to various factors, such as individual variations in the presentation of the disease, dietary habits, or concurrent medical conditions. It is crucial for individuals with celiac disease to collaborate with healthcare professionals to manage their condition and uphold a healthy lifestyle.

When looking for snacks suitable for individuals with celiac disease, it’s essential to choose options that are gluten-free and won’t cause any adverse effects. Here are some snack ideas that can be enjoyed safely:

1. Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables make for excellent gluten-free snacks. Pair them with a side of yogurt or a gluten-free dip for added variety.
2. Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are nutritious and gluten-free snack options. However, be cautious of flavored varieties, as they may contain gluten-containing additives.
3. Rice Cakes: Plain rice cakes are a versatile and satisfying gluten-free snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or topped with gluten-free spreads or toppings.
4. Popcorn: Air-popped popcorn is a whole-grain snack that is naturally gluten-free. Avoid pre-packaged or flavored varieties, as they may contain gluten.
5. Gluten-Free Granola Bars: Opt for gluten-free granola bars that are specifically labeled as such to ensure they are safe for individuals with celiac disease.
6. Cheese and Gluten-Free Crackers: Enjoy a serving of cheese with gluten-free crackers for a satisfying and protein-rich snack.

Remember to always check the labels and look for products specifically labeled as gluten-free to ensure they are safe for individuals with celiac disease.

There are several apps designed to assist individuals with celiac disease in managing their condition. The following apps can help with various aspects of navigating a gluten-free lifestyle, such as identifying safe food options, managing diet and symptoms, and locating gluten-free restaurants and products. Some popular apps for celiac disease management include:

1. Find Me Gluten Free: This app helps users locate nearby restaurants and eateries offering gluten-free options. It includes user reviews and ratings to aid in decision-making.
2. Gluten Free Scanner (my personal favorite): With this app, users can quickly scan product barcodes to determine whether they are gluten-free. It provides information on food and drink items, as well as cosmetics and medication.
3. GF Scanner: Similar to Gluten Free Scanner, this app enables users to scan barcodes and identify gluten-free products. It also offers reviews and a community forum.
4. MySymptoms Food Diary & Symptom Tracker: This app allows individuals to track their dietary intake and symptoms, helping them identify potential triggers and manage their condition effectively.
5. Dine Gluten Free: Dine Gluten Free helps users find gluten-free dining options and includes menus, reviews, and ratings from other users.

These apps can be valuable tools in supporting individuals with celiac disease as they navigate the complexities of a gluten-free diet and lifestyle.

This is just some of the information about celiac disease. I encourage everyone to look further into it if anyone you know has Celiac’s Disease. (Psst.. if you know me you know someone with celiac’s). One of the main things that I wanted people to know though is that you can be overweight and have celiac disease. I was diagnosed due to my severe anemia as previously stated celiac disease causes nutrient malabsorption and part of my anemia is that my body is not able to absorb it like a regular person can. After I went to my primary care provider at the time and told him that I had an EDG and colonoscopy completed and that I was diagnosed with celiac disease he just stood there and looked as surprised as a kid caught with their hand in the cookie jar. Apparently, in medical school, they teach that people with celiac disease are supposed to be withering away. Well, surprise! I’m here to break the stereotype. I am very much not withering away and have celiac disease and I have never in my life felt so self conscious about my weight as I have that day in the doctor’s office. Needless to say, I found a new provider faster than you can say “gluten-free”.