Turn to Wheat Alternatives
Imagine having to scrutinize every single label for ingredients that may contain hidden gluten, a protein found in wheat and related grains-especially over the holidays! For more than 1.5 million Americans with celiac disease, though, avoiding gluten is critical.
When people with celiac disease eat foods containing gluten, their immune systems respond by treating this substance like a foreign invader and damaging the lining of the small intestine. While there's no known cure for this autoimmune disease, you can control it by eating a gluten-free diet.
Reading labels carefully is crucial. Watch for hidden sources of gluten, such as hydrolyzed vegetable protein, textured vegetable protein, and hydrolyzed plant protein. Also avoid malt, modified food starch, grain vinegars, some soy sauces, plus binders and fillers found in many foods and even medications and seasonings. Oats seem to be in question-some sources say eating oats doesn't cause problems, while others recommend avoiding oats. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine what's best for you. And be sure to visit your favorite natural products store for a growing selection of gluten-free breads, cookies, soups, spices, and more.
What Can I Eat?
Not Allowed:
All forms of wheat including
 | Following a list of common food allegies can help you prepare foods for someone with food allergies or other special eating needs. It's still important to always read food labels. Since allergies and intolerances are quite variable, it's best to ask your guests about their specific restrictions before you start planning a dinner menu. |
 | Before you swear off chocolate forever, take a moment. What seems like a chocolate allergy could be something altogether different. |
 | A peanut allergy is often one of the most dangerous and frightening allergies we come across. |
The other day I asked this young guy who was stocking the shelves in the medicine/vitamin area where the Lactaid was. His reply: "What's that?" I must admit that sometimes I'm surprised to hear that they don't know what Lactose Intolerance is. |
Lactase, the enzyme found on the surface of cells in the small intestine, breaks down lactose, the sugar found in dairy products. |
