May is Celiac Awareness Month

 

Delete the Wheat!

What is Celiac disease?  The simple answer is a person with gluten intolerance.  We talked with Linda, The Gluten Free Homemaker, who was diagnosed with Celiac disease back in 2000.  As Linda explains,  “Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that is triggered by the protein gluten which is found in wheat, rye, barley, and contaminated oats.  When gluten is consumed, the body attacks itself.  Specifically, it damages the villi which line the small intestine.  This damage results in malabsorption of nutrients.”  The unfortunate thing is that when someone is affected with Celiac disease, if they eat wheat, their body will attack their intestinal system and they have a hard time absorbing any nutrients, not just wheat.  In order to lead a healthy lifestyle, a person must eliminate all wheat products from their diet.  Only after eliminating wheat will their body return to normal functioning.

Dealing with Celiac disease and gluten intolerance doesn’t mean you can’t eat delicious food.  Linda enjoys eating naturally gluten-free foods like fresh fruits and vegetables.  She also suggests to others to try shopping the perimeter of the grocery store for healthy, whole foods without gluten.  Many food manufacturers have realized the increased amount of shoppers looking for gluten alternative foods.  Here at Kelapo we love Bloomfield Farms brand muffin mix.  Add some fresh or frozen blueberries for a healthy breakfast muffin.

It’s also important to note that not everyone with a gluten intolerance is diagnosed with Celiac disease.  Many people report a sluggish feeling after eating wheat and have proactively chosen to eliminate the wheat.  At Linda’s house, she says they are split: 2 wheat free eaters, and three with regular diets.  There has been some disagreement between experts as to whether individuals who can process wheat should choose to switch to a gluten free diet.  The breads and pastas we eat are fortified with vitamins and minerals and choosing not to eat wheat may cause you to miss out on those health benefits.  If you are trying to decide how to adjust your diet, you may want to consult with the Celiac Foundation’s website or your doctor first.

Do you have a gluten intolerance?  We’re looking for great gluten-free recipes that include coconut oil.  Please drop us a line or let us know about your favorite recipes.  We’d love to share with everyone!

 

If your looking for a great gluten-free cookbook check out Simply… Gluten-Free Desserts!

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