Sunday, October 26, 2008

But What Exactly is Gluten Allergy, in Simple Language?

We have received numerous questions from visitors who were asking "What this Gluten Free Diet is meant to do." So we will mention some facts and tidbits in the upcoming posts.

The digestive disorder celiac disease (gluten allergy) scars the lining of the small intestine preventing the absorption of nutrients. Gluten allergy symptoms manifest as gastrointestinal distress of all forms.

Celiac disease effects genetically predisposed individuals and can cause severe, lifelong disruption of their dietary intake since gluten is found in wheat, rye, malt and barley. In Western countries the condition is extremely common. In the United States 1 in 133 people have gluten allergies.

Symptoms of gluten allergy include a range of digestive issues such as indigestion, heartburn, and irritable bowel syndrome. There may be unexplained weight loss, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, minor rectal bleeding, and acid reflux. Itchy dermatitis is also a symptom of this disorder as is excessive fatigue. Coeliac disease is also associated with anemia, cardiomyopathy, depression, miscarriage, and peripheral neuropathy.Gluten food allergy in young children will cause weight loss and an extended abdomen. The effected children will fail to thrive and will grow very slowly. This can continue into adolescence with puberty being delayed. Children will also be irritable and will vomit easily. Some evidence suggests a link between gluten intolerance and autism.

Many products are available today for consumers looking to purchase gluten free products. One needs to make sure that the flour used is certified gluten free.

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