Are There Degrees of Gluten Intolerance?

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

By Dr. Vikki Petersen

I recently saw an “Ask the Doctor” question on the medical section of a popular news website. The individual asked about degrees of gluten sensitivity. She already knew that she didn’t have celiac disease, but she wanted to know if gluten was still a problem for her. Much of the data shared was accurate, but there was some misinformation disseminated that I wanted to point out so that you won’t be confused or misinformed. To define our terms, gluten intolerance is used as an umbrella condition that embraces both celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. Continue reading “Are There Degrees of Gluten Intolerance?”

Supervalu Rolls Out Gluten-Free Health and Wellness Program

Naturally Gluten-Free Cart

SuperValu, drug and supermarket retailer, will be rolling out their new health and wellness program which addresses the gluten-free diet for those who have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, gluten sensitivity, as well as other diseases and conditions. Their supermarkets rolling out the program will include Acme, Albertsons, Cub Foods, Farm Fresh, Hornbacher’s, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s/Star Market and Shoppers Food & Pharmacy. Lucky, Shop-n-Save, and Save-A-Lot were not mentioned. Continue reading “Supervalu Rolls Out Gluten-Free Health and Wellness Program”

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”

Gluten-free Giveaway and Review: Tropical Traditions Virgin Coconut Oil

Tropical Traditions Virgin Gold Label Coconut Oil

In addition to my gluten sensitivity, I have had allergic reactions to many coconut products.  Therefore, I was hesitant on testing this product, but lo and behold I had no reaction at all to this product!  The probable reason?  I read that many people who have food allergies may not have an allergic reaction to a food when consuming their organic version.  Avoiding chemicals, artificial ingredients, etc. is supposed to help those with food allergies.  Tropical Traditions Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil is not refined.  The coconut is shredded (wet milled); cold pressed using the water from the inside of the coconut to make coconut milk; allowing it to sit for about a day to allow the oil to naturally separate from the milk; and then naturally separating the oil from the milk.  Their process is highly commended and makes recipes tastes wonderful! Continue reading “Gluten-free Giveaway and Review: Tropical Traditions Virgin Coconut Oil”

National Gluten-free Diet Awareness Month

Gluten-Sensitivity Image

November is not only National Gluten-free Diet Awareness Month, but a special day is marked for the Celiac Disease Foundation.

Since November 19, 1990, when the Celiac Disease Foundation‘s articles of incorporation were filed with the California Secretary of State’s office, (and are refiled annually), they, a non-profit public benefit corporation, have been diligently raising awareness of the disease. Celiac Disease Foundation Continue reading “National Gluten-free Diet Awareness Month”

Gluten-Free Giveaway and Gluten Sensitivity/Celiac Event

As many of you know, Dr. Vikki Petersen was on my radio show earlier this year.  As co-founder of the HealthNOW Medical Center she is hosting their second annual Gluten Sensitivity and Celiac Forum event.  In addition, she has generously donated 3 copies of their book, “The Gluten Effect“, known by leading experts in the field as the vanguard of gluten sensitivity diagnosis and treatment.  Learn about the event and enter the gluten-free giveaway! Continue reading “Gluten-Free Giveaway and Gluten Sensitivity/Celiac Event”