Celiac Disease, which I have, is a chronic digestive disorder where the body no longer produces the enzyme needed to break down glutens in foods. Reasons for this vary, but it is believed stress is the culprit. When glutens are ingested, the inability to digest them causes the finger-like projections in the small intestine to break off, ultimately causing an absorption problem with all foods eaten until these Celia grow back, usually in about three to four days. Symptoms of Celiac Disease include painful stomach cramping and severe diarrhea. Sometimes vomiting and disorientation accompanies this. Complications from a bout of Celiac Disease include dehydration, muscle cramping, the inability to absorb any nutrients, and difficulty with thought processes. Stomach cancer is also a concern with too many cases. Watching my diet is relatively easy at home. I have learned to keep my foods and utensils labeled with my name and kept separate from my family's foods; i.e., I have my own butter dish; my own peanut butter jar; my own jelly. To prevent cross-contamination, no one but myself uses these items. In addition, I have my own cooking utensils. I use a separate spatula for my eggs, both in preparing and serving. Fresh fruits, vegetables, rice, potatoes, and even chocolate are "safe" gluten-free foods. Strangely enough, low-fat items contain glutens when the fattening version does not. Of course breads are no-no's, but there are rice breads available. There are also other gluten-free items available, including rice or corn pastas. Finding these gluten-free items can be a problem. Of course, most health food stores have some gluten-free products, as well as some groceries. Ordering directly from the company is possible, but shipping is extremely expensive because gluten-free foods have no preservatives, so overnight or refrigerated/frozen transportation is the best way to deliver. Spending time with friends and family and socializing usually involves some sort of eating. Since following a strict diet is the only way to stay healthy, eating out at restaurants is often not possible. There is no way to be assured of "safe" foods when glutens are present. (Picture particles of flour floating in the air or serving spoons doing "double duty" or even croutons being picked out of your salad just before being served.) Eating at friends' homes or at family picnics is a better alternative simply by packing one's own gluten-free food items to take along. Coping with Celiac Disease requires changes in lifestyle. Sometimes it seems impossible to do, but it is so important to stay diligent and try to adhere to these changes. Educating friends and family of your condition and voicing your needs helps create a support system to help you stay healthy.
Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5
Not yet Rated
