The Dr Oz Show on The Gluten-Free Diet: August 11, 2011

The Dr Oz Show featured the gluten-free diet as a topic on their August 11, 2011 episode. Dr Oz had as his guests, Founder and Medical Director of the Ultra Wellness Center of Massachusetts, Dr Mark Hyman, and Good Housekeeping Research Institute’s Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Director, Samantha Cassetty. Their basic advise was to eat more fiber, less starch, more naturally gluten-free food and less carbs. It was stated that 99% of us with a sensitivity to gluten don’t even know it. Seventy million Americans are effected by some form of gluten intolerance, gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Therefore, it is important to know the facts about which foods are healthier for you; whether or not you can lose weight from a gluten-free diet; and to be knowledgeable of the hidden sources of gluten. Read on to learn more. Continue reading “The Dr Oz Show on The Gluten-Free Diet: August 11, 2011”

Celiac Disease: Newly Diagnosed and Still Having Symptoms?

You may be wondering why some gluten intolerant individuals are on a grain-free and gluten-free diet. I have heard from many newly diagnosed celiac patients, as well as gluten intolerant, who react to foods which do not contain gluten. One should not react if eating a gluten-free food from a reputable manufacturer or making it themselves at home, especially if you know that most people do not react to it. When newly diagnosed, one can react to other grains which can mimic gluten such as rice, corn, etc. This is known as being cross-reactive. It is usually not permanent, though. The small intestines just need to heal before introducing corn, rice, dairy, etc. It usually takes about 3 months of eliminating these foods before reintroducing them. If you do not avoid the foods that cause a reaction you only asking for trouble. You need to avoid anything which may cause inflammation to heal a leaky gut and your intestines. Continue reading “Celiac Disease: Newly Diagnosed and Still Having Symptoms?”

Multiple Sclerosis Raises Risk of Celiac Disease Dramatically

Image: Dr. Vikki Petersen
Vikki Petersen, D.C., C.C.N.

By Dr. Vikki Petersen

I have had the experience of diagnosing multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with gluten intolerance. The results were often an improvement of their nervous system, MS related symptoms. When they related their improvement to their neurologist, it was frequently met with disbelief or a comment that implied some type of ‘placebo’ effect. Patients would be very frustrated at the dismissal of what they felt was a significant factor in their health. Continue reading “Multiple Sclerosis Raises Risk of Celiac Disease Dramatically”

Strengthen Your Immune Systems with Seeds

Image: Claudia Pillow, Ph.D.
Claudia Pillow, Ph.D.
Claudia Pillow, Ph.D.

In my book, The Gluten-Free Good Health Cookbook, I talk about the importance of eating seeds to neutralize inflammation and strengthen the immune system. They are nutritional powerhouses packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, protein and healthy oils. But many of us do not eat seeds on a daily basis, unless it is on a gluten-free bagel. Here are 5 of my favorites:

Chia Seeds originated in South America and was a staple in the diets of Ancient Mayans and Aztecs. The seeds are high in dietary fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. They have a mild nutty flavor and can be eaten raw or used in cooking and baking. Continue reading “Strengthen Your Immune Systems with Seeds”

Gluten Intolerance and Stress

Vikki Petersen, D.C., C.C.N.

Gluten intolerance, be it celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, creates a lot of stress on the body. Through malabsorption, inflammation and a host of other damaging factors, it is no wonder that the stress gland itself would be similarly affected.

The stress glands are designed to help us adapt successfully to life’s stressors and do so in many ways.

Do you find yourself in a situation where you need to move quickly? This gland will increase your heart rate and bring more blood to your muscles with the result of making you faster and stronger. Continue reading “Gluten Intolerance and Stress”

Celiac Disease News: A Vaccine is in Phase I Trials

Vikki Petersen, D.C., C.C.N.

Dr. Vikki Petersen elaborates on the celiac disease vaccine…

Dr Robert Anderson, PhD from Australia announced this month that after several years of research his vaccine was ready for a Phase I trial. I remember meeting Dr Anderson 2 years ago at a National Foundation for Celiac Awareness conference where he shared with me his goals about this research.

The study was composed of 34 celiacs, 19 people of whom received the vaccine while 15 received a placebo of saline water. Continue reading “Celiac Disease News: A Vaccine is in Phase I Trials”

Celiac: Foods to Avoid

Image: Celiac and Gluten Foods to Avoid Logo

If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, you would do best to eat natural foods, free of chemicals, preservatives, additives and other artificial ingredients, as some of these ingredients are sources of hidden gluten and are unhealthy for us all.

Link Between Celiac Disease and MSG 

There is a theory that MSG is unsafe for celiac patients.  It certainly has been proven that MSG increases the risk for autism.  In addition, it has been discovered that most individuals who report having a reaction to MSG also report a sensitivity to wheat.  There are many foods and ingredients that those with celiac disease should not consume.  One would think that rice milk would be safe, but all brands are not gluten-free.  Read the information below to find out more about unsafe foods for those with celiac individuals and more. Continue reading “Celiac: Foods to Avoid”