Being Gluten Free

What’s in it for me?

Current medical research has found that an amazing array of symptoms and disease are linked to gluten intolerance. The intolerance can range from full blown Celiac Disease (a chronic condition that occurs when gluten triggers an abnormal immune system response that damages the small intestines) to a milder form of sensitivity causing numerous health complications.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, spelt, some oats (through contamination), many cosmetics and most processed foods. It is a staple of the American diet. Celiac Disease affects one in 133 people in the US, many of them undiagnosed. Nearly one-third of the American population may be affected by the milder sensitivity to gluten.

Gluten sensitivity creates inflammation in the body with wide ranging effects throughout all organ systems, including brain, heart, joints, digestive tract and more. Diseases linked to this sensitivity include most autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and lupus, plus anemia, cancer, psoriasis, osteoporosis, irritable bowel disease and heart problems.

Gluten may also be linked to psychiatric and neurological disorders, including depression, dementia, migraines, anxiety and autism. The list of connections between gluten sensitivity and health issues is seemingly endless.

For those with full blown Celiac Disease it becomes clear cut that all gluten must be avoided in the diet. For the large part of the population suffering from gluten intolerance the need for avoidance may not be so obvious, but it is just as vital to achieving optimal health. Once gluten is removed from the diet, whole clusters of seemingly unrelated symptoms may disappear, including fatigue, joint pain, respiratory infections, memory and concentration problems, muscle cramps, heart palpitations, bloating and unexplained weight gain.

Try eliminating gluten from your diet and you may discover many beneficial and surprising  changes in your physical and mental well being, including more energy and improved overall health.

Invest in a healthy tomorrow by going gluten free today!

Our disclaimer: We are not medical practitioners, we are bakers with a passion for exploring alternative avenues to optimal health through informed and innovative food choices.

Excellent Resources for Information and Education:

www.celiac.com: Celiac Disease and Gluten Free Diet Information Since 1995

www.southernarizonaceliacsupport.org: Lots of general information plus local events, dining, etc.

www.findmeglutenfree.com:  Fantastic site for locating gluten free restaurants.

Heirloom Farmers Markets

www.Heirloomfm.org

Please feel free to email us with suggestions for other resources:

[email protected]

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