Help for Managing Celiac Disease
What Is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the small intestine’s villi, leading to inflammation, and malabsorption of essential nutrients and has many downstream effects.
This occurs in response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. According to research, around 2 million Americans have been diagnosed, and up to 1 in 133 Americans may be affected, with or without a diagnosis.
Who Is Affected?
Certain groups have a higher risk of developing celiac disease. These include:
- People of European ancestry
- Those with a family history of celiac disease
- Individuals with other autoimmune disorders, such as Hashimoto’s or Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Anyone experiencing IBS-like symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, reflux, and diarrhea
What Are the Symptoms of CD?
Nutrient absorption is impaired because the immune system damages the small intestine, leading to deficiencies and secondary health issues. Symptoms include:
- Gastrointestinal issues: abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation
- Fatigue and anemia
- Skin conditions, including rashes and eczema
- Headaches and mood disorders
- Osteoporosis and dental issues
Identifying Celiac Disease
A small intestinal biopsy has been the traditional gold standard for diagnosing celiac disease. However, it can sometimes miss affected areas. Gabrielle uses blood tests like the Wheat Zoomer from Vibrant America to identify gluten intolerance or sensitivity by analyzing smaller protein peptides, immune modulation and inflammation levels.
Clients consume whole wheat bread for a week before a blood draw for accurate results. This test provides a more comprehensive overview, detecting early stages that may not appear in biopsies.
Tips for Managing CD
Gabrielle also offers the following advice for navigating celiac disease and gluten sensitivities:
- Switch to Gluten-Free Foods: Opt for naturally gluten-free foods like meat, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes. When buying processed foods, look for “certified gluten-free” labels.
- Be Wary of Cross-Contamination: Avoid foods that might have come into contact with gluten-containing products, especially in shared factory, bakery or kitchen environments.
- Find Alternatives: Gluten-free pasta, cookies, and breads are now widely available. Experiment with different brands to find the ones you enjoy.
- Stay Mindful of Hidden Gluten: Some beauty and personal care products contain gluten. Be sure to check the labels.
Take Control of Your Health
If you suspect gluten intolerance or celiac disease, contact Gabrielle today for comprehensive food testing. Early detection can prevent the progression of CD and alleviate symptoms, helping you adopt a diet that nurtures your health and allows your body to heal.
