“Gluten is a storage protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The long complicated protein structure is difficult to digest, and we don’t have enzymes to break it down.”

“Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where gluten is the known trigger.  celiac disease. A strict lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet is the only treatment.”

“There are over 200 symptoms of celiac disease and many are not the typical digestive problems. The average time from symptoms to diagnosis is 4 to 7 years, and people get diagnosed in their 60’s and 70’s.”

“Celiac Disease is diagnosed by a blood test and a follow-up endoscopy. Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity can look a lot like Celiac Disease, but there is no biomarker so diagnosis is symptom-based. The overall treatment plan is similar, but may not need to be as strict.”

“The gas, bloating, and other digestive distress that you may experience from eating wheat, barley and rye may be due to the gluten, but your discomfort could also be due to FODMAPs. It’s important to know the cause of your discomfort because the treatment plan is different, and may be less restrictive.”

“A gluten-free diet is a recommended strategy for autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Graves disease and Hashimoto's.”

“Digestive problems are common during menopause, and gluten is a known trigger food for menopause symptoms. Removing gluten can reduce digestive distress as well as hot flashes and sweats.” 

“You can maintain a healthy gluten-free diet with balanced nutrition. If you look after your gut health, and consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, and grains, you're unlikely to develop nutrient deficiencies.”