Facts About Celiac Disease

For people with Celiac disease, a crumb from
a piece of toast can be dangerous.  Having celiac
means that exposure to gluten causes the immune
system to attack the small intestine, damaging
the  lining.  This leads to vitamin, mineral and
nutrients from being absorbed.

Celiac disease is on the rise.  A gluten free diet is the
only cure as of yet.  Once eating gluten free, symptoms
will go away.

Gluten sensitivity and celiac are different.  People
with celiac disease and sensitivity may have
similar symptoms, such as bloating and fatigue.
Only those with the disease dose the immune system
disrupt the body's ability to absorb vitamins, minerals
and nutrients.

Celiac And Vitamin A and D

Celiac disease is characterized by an
intolerance of gluten.  This often leads
to vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
The most common deficiencies are
vitamin A and D, especially in newly
diagnosed children.
This occurs due to the malabsorption in
the gastrointestinal tract.

Celiac Awareness Week!

So today marks the start of Celiac awareness
week.  It is important to educate as not to
be confused with fad diets or an allergy.
There are many things people with Celiac
are sick of hearing.  Here are just a few.

1. Can't you eat just a little.  This one makes
me laugh, a crumb can cause a reaction to most.

2.  Oh I gave up bread too.  Don't we wish it was
just bread we had to give up.  Gluten is everywhere.

3.  Think of all the weight you will lose going
gluten free.  That is what people think, however
it  may be the opposite.  Unless you prepare, read
labels, gluten free foods are not always healthy.

Celiac is a disease not a fad and not an allergy!

Celiac Disease

The month of May is Celiac Disease Awareness
month.  Celiac disease on average affects one in
100 people.  It is an autoimmune disease in which
the ingestion of gluten damages the villi of the
small intestine.

The function of the villi is to absorb nutrients. 
When damaged, nutrients cannot be properly absorbed,
which can lead to health problems.

The only treatment for this disease, is a strict gluten
free diet.  Luckily there are many gluten free options
available.  Eating gluten free is not just a trend, for many
it is the only answer.

Eat Whole Grains

There are many healthy alternatives to eating
whole grains and gluten free.  Your brain
needs continuous energy from healthy
carbohydrates, such as fruit, whole grain
gluten free products and legumes.  Legumes
are high in protein and carbohydrates, making
them a great option.  Brown rice, wild rice, and
almond flour are gluten free and healthy
carbohydrates. 
Being gluten free and eating healthy is not hard
to do, just takes some planning and label reading.
Always think whole grains, and brown over
white. 

Gluten Removed Beers?

There are beers on the  market that are  made
without gluten.  They can be made from sorghum
instead of barley or wheat.  One brand is
Redbridge, from Anheuser Busch.  These types
of beers are safe for those with Celiac.

The question is about gluten removed beers.
These are beers where the gluten is removed.
Conventional beer is typically made from a
combination of malted barley and hops. 
Many experts suggest that these gluten
removed beers are unsafe, as of now for
those with Celiac disease.

Gluten Free Peanut Butter Balls

If you love peanut butter, you will love these
yummy treats.  Simple to make for all to enjoy.

Peanut butter balls

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tsp. vanilla
• 1 1/2 cups gluten free oats
• 1/2 cup gluten free granola or shredded coconut
• 1/3 cup mini chips or any chocolate pieces