Celiac disease is much like an allergy in which the body cannot process gluten. Some people grow into it and, as it is hereditary, some are born with it. The only way to treat it is to eat a gluten free diet and keep the body healthy.
Celiac disease is not as uncommon as it may sound. Symptoms vary from person to person and can include stomachache, nausea, headache, fatigue, sudden weight loss and a variety of others. It has symptoms similar to other disorders and can mimic them because of these similarities. As a result, it is often mis-diagnosed. A few tests are available to be sure of celiac or gluten intolerance.
Gluten Intolerance Tests
One test that can be done is a scope. The scope test takes a biopsy of the intestine, which is the organ most affected by celiac. Another test is a blood test. Keep in mind that the blood test often needs to be requisitioned by a doctor and it can be costly. Ask a doctor about taking these tests.
Naturally, one may take a step of faith in assuming that’s what the problem is and invest in a gluten free diet. Depending on the severity of the case, the relief of the symptoms comes quickly, and with no dependence on medicines. Even if the assumption is wrong, it is a low risk test with no medication involved.
How to Avoid Gluten and Where to Find Gluten Free Food
Simply put, gluten is found in four basic grains: wheat, barley, rye and oats. Avoiding these four will avoid gluten altogether. It is not always easy, especially in a country in which wheat makes up a large part of the staple foods. Stepping into any grocery store will prove this.
There are many places where gluten free foods can be found. Most grocery stores will have special sections with gluten free foods. Foods like bread and muffins are likely to be found in the freezer as it preserves them for longer. Other gluten free foods are often placed in sections with organic foods. Be cautious when looking in these sections. Organic and gluten free are not the same.
Specially made gluten free foods will most likely have “gluten free” written on the package. Other than that, one should take care and read ingredients lists. With prepared foods, spices or anything that could possibly have gluten in it, take the time to read the ingredients.
Health food stores and specialty stores are likely to have a selection of gluten free foods, including foods that are not found at the grocery store. Take the time to browse in these different kinds of stores. The time spent looking is worth it considering the variety of food for a gluten free diet.
For a complete list of symptoms and advice on what to eat and what to avoid, this site is fully informative.
Is Gluten Intolerance Healthy?
The great news about gluten intolerance is that no medication is needed. Simply eating well and following a gluten free diet will keep the body healthy. Sometimes a weakened stomach needs a little supplement to aid digestion. In this case, herbs are advisable, and it may be better to find them at a health food store rather than a pharmacy.
Celiac disease is more of an allergy than a sickness. One does not “suffer” from it. Gluten intolerance is only unhealthy when gluten is still in the diet. The four grains in which gluten is found are not necessarily the healthiest grains for the body and avoiding them can make a weaker stomach stronger.
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