Perhaps you have just been diagnosed with Celiac Disease, Dermatitis Herpetiformis, a gluten allergy or are sensitive to gluten. We know you are 100% committed to following a gluten-free diet – let’s not call it a “diet”, but rather a lifestyle! The key to becoming healthier is not only about limiting foods that will make you sick, which of course is essential, it also involves the day-to-day of living gluten-free … in a world filled with gluten! Perhaps you need a little help navigating this new world absent wheat, barley and rye. The task of keeping safe in various settings such as when dining out, attending school, traveling, socializing and even in your home, may seem daunting at first, but armed with the essential information provided here on CeliacCorner, you will soon be on your way to embracing your new lifestyle!
Good nutrition is important for everyone, but it is critically so for newly diagnosed Celiacs. Because Celiac is a disease of malabsorption, your body may have been starved of nutrients which are vital to maintaining a healthy body … and mind. Shortly after being diagnosed, it is recommended to meet with a registered dietitian, preferably one specializing in Celiac Disease & eating gluten-free, to help with the transition. Be sure to read the Celiac 101 sections to learn which nutritional deficiencies often occur. The Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) offers the following on Nutrient Deficiencies: http://www.gluten.net/NutrientDeficiencies%2006-2011.pdf
If ever there were a time to be receive a diagnosis of Celiac, gluten-sensitivity or a wheat allergy, it would be the present. With the increasing assortment of deliciously palatable gluten-free products available, & the wide variety of allowable fresh fruits, nuts, vegetables, fish, meat & poultry - no one should ever feel deprived. Try not to dwell on the foods you can no longer eat, and focus on simply replacing gluten-containing foods with healthy, safe alternatives, which can easily be found in grocery stores and on-line. Soon you will be so accustomed to living the lifestyle, you may one day find yourself coaching another newly diagnosed!
Good Luck on your Celiac journey – let us know how you are doing. Visit us on Facebook and Twitter too!
For more information on staying healthy be sure to visit the following CeliacCorner sections:
Celiac 101 What Can I Eat What Can’t I Eat Other Sources of Gluten Alcohol & Medication Dining Out Traveling Food Recalls Gluten-Free Grains & Flours Help with Label Reading Preparing the Kitchen Truth or Myth? Gluten Free Shopping Made Easy