Great Information at Gluten-free Workshop

Did you know that body lotion can contain gluten? That’s one of many interesting facts I learned at the “Learn to live gluten free” workshop at Novant Health Franklin Medical Center in Louisburg, N.C.

Some people have celiac disease which causes an immune response to gluten, and breaks down the microvilli in their stomach lining. If you have stomach discomfort and suspect you could have celiac disease, it is best to be tested before eliminating gluten. The tests are unreliable once gluten has been removed from your diet. It is estimated that 97% of Americans with celiac disease are not diagnosed.

Gluten is found in a class of grains that includes wheat, barley, and rye. Grains like oats are often contaminated with the gluten protein during processing so they need to be avoided as well.

Less obvious gluten sources found on ingredient labels are malt, modified food starch (unless corn is specified), caramel coloring (soft drinks), and citric acid (the imports have gluten). When “natural flavor” is listed, gluten cannot be ruled out.

Some lesser known gluten-containing foods are taco seasoning mix, coated French fries, couscous, and turkey (some are basted with gluten containing solution).

Fruits and vegetables are good sources of gluten-free nutrition. I have previous posts with gluten-free peach cobbler and eggplant recipes.

Interesting gluten-free websites:

www.glutenfreely.com

www.gluten.net

http://www.celiac.org/

Thanks to the organizers and presenters of the gluten free workshop: Julie Kephart, Lori Peele MD, Sasha Dunbar, and Susan White. Thanks also to Chef Bobby for preparing the delicious gluten free luncheon.