Showing posts with label intolerances/allergies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label intolerances/allergies. Show all posts

5/18/2010

Final Roundup

+A HUNDRED HEALTH SAPPING NEUROTOXINS HIDDEN IN PACKAGED AND RESTAURANT FOOD
+ANTIINFLAMMATORY FOODS
+ASTAXANTHIN: THE MIRACLE ANTIOXIDANT AND ANTI-INFLAMMATORY NUTRIENT
+BOTTLED WATER FOUND CONTAMINATED WITH MEDICATIONS, FERTILIZER, DISINFECTION CHEMICALS
+BUILD NATURAL CO Q-10 IN YOUR BODY
+CANOLA OIL IS ANOTHER VICTORY OF FOOD TECHNOLOGY OVER COMMON SENSE
+CHEMICALS USED TO DISINFECT WATER CREATE DANGEROUS TOXINS
+CINNAMON IS THE WONDER SPICE FOR HEALTH AND WELLBEING
+COMMON SPICES WORK BETTER THAN ASPIRIN TO STOP BLOOD CLOTS
+COURT ORDERS PARENTS TO POISON THEIR 13-YEAR-OLD CHILD WITH CHEMOTHERAPY
+DEMAND FOR PURPLE CORN MAY SOON EXPLODE
+DISCOVER THE BENEFITS AND USES OF GOTU KOLA
+DRINK A HEALTHY CUP OF COFFEE
+EASE EXCRUCIATING EARACHES NATURALLY
+FIND NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS IN TAHINI
+FLUORIDATION IS THE ULTIMATE DECEPTION
+GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS ARE UNFIT FOR CONSUMPTION
+GM-SOY DESTROYS THE EARTH AND HUMANS FOR PROFIT
+GOJI BERRIES ARE A SUPER FOOD FOR OPTIMUM HEALTH
+HEALTH MINDED CONSUMERS ARE TRICKED INTO EATING MORE PROCESSED SUGAR
+HOSPITALS ARE BREEDING GROUNDS FOR SUPERBUGS
+INDIAN CURRY SPICES EXPLAINED
+INEXPENSIVE MAGNESIUM PROVES IMPRESSIVE AT PROTECTING THE BRAIN
+JAPANESE VEGETARIAN CUISINE EXPLAINED
+LEAD IN EVERYDAY PRODUCTS
+MSG IN HEALTH FOOD STORE PRODUCTS
+MSG NOW USED TO SPRAY CROPS
+NATURAL VITAMIN E SLASHES LUNG CANCER RISK BY 55%
+NEW STUDY: PROBIOTIC STRAIN BOOSTS IMMUNE RESPONSE TO FLU VIRUS
+PROTECT YOURSELF FROM MSG AND ASPARTAME EXCITOTOXICITY
+PROTECT YOURSELF FROM POISONS IN THE SKY
+RESEARCH REVEALS WHICH CONVENTIONAL PRODUCE CAN BE SAFELY EATEN
+SHATTERED ILLUSIONS: TEN THINGS ABOUT THE NATURAL WORLD YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW
+SILK, SOYDREAM, PACIFIC NATURAL FOODS AND VITASOY ALL REBUKED IN NEW SOY SCORECARD RATINGS
+SOY PROTEIN USED IN "NATURAL" FOODS BATHED IN TOXIC SOLVENT HEXANE
+SPINACH KNOCKS OUT CANCER AND BOOSTS BRAIN POWER
+STOP NEEDLESS AMPUTATIONS WITH CALCIUM BENTONITE CLAY
+SWINE FLU (INFLUENZA): ALL YOU WANTED TO KNOW
+SWINE FLU OUTBREAK COULD BE LINKED TO SMITHFIELD FACTORY FARMS

8/09/2009

The Yeast Beast


+TAKE THE SURVEY
WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE THE SURVEY:
1. Do You Suspect you have Candida or a Yeast Infection? This survey is one of the BEST ways in determining if a person is suffering from Candida OR a similar condition with the same root problem, which we address!

2. A Candida Overgrowth is present in over 80% of the population, wouldn't you like a better idea if you're one of them? Stop Wondering Why You're Always Sick and KNOW Why!

3. In as little as 2 minutes get a solid understanding of whether Candida or a Yeast Infection is a problem for you. The Answer could surprise you! Then follow our Candida Yeast-Fighting Program and take charge of your health once and for all.

4. We provide you with an E-Course to help you with the severity of your Candida and Yeast Infection once you complete the survey and submit your results.

5. Best of all the Survey is FREE, EASY, QUICK and ACCURATE!

**********************************************
"Candida is always present in the tissues of cancer patients."
Dr. T. Simoncini (oncologist)
**********************************************

HowtoCureCandida.com
HOW TO CURE CANDIDA - Version 2
[Excerpts]

What is Yeast?
Yeast is a type of fungus that derives its nutrients from anything living or that has been alive; these are usually plants or animals. To survive and flourish, yeasts produce enzymes that allow the yeast to absorb nutrient from its “hosts.” Given the right set of circumstances, some yeast can grow at an explosive rate. Every single person is colonized by yeasts, whether these are in the mouth, the intestines, or the vagina. Yeasts also colonize just as frequently in the nose, ears, and skin. [...]

There is always a fine balance with regards to yeast in the human body. Yeasts only cause problems and disease under special circumstances—usually a noticeable increase of fermentation in some parts of the body. As long as the yeasts are confined to specific areas and not allowed to overgrow, they normally do not present problems. [...]

What is Candida?
Candida is actually the name for a whole group of incredibly tiny organisms. They’re measured in units called microns. A human hair is 100 microns in diameter. In comparison, a single yeast cell is just 4 to 6 microns long—a little sphere of fungus. There are actually more than 150 species of Candida yeasts and ten of these cause trouble for humans. Of these ten species that can make humans ill, the strain responsible for a vast majority of problems in people is the Candida Albicans.

The vast majority of the time these microorganisms cause you no trouble at all and you’re not even aware of their existence on and inside of you. Your many microscopic species live in harmony, each population keeping the others in check, regulated by a healthy immune system. However, under certain circumstances, the balance between species of microorganisms is compromised. One species may multiply explosively and cause an infection. This can be a bacterium, a fungus, or a virus.

In the case of Candida Albicans (which we will refer to as Candida from now on), the balance between the yeast cells and the bacteria that kept their numbers in check is upset. The yeast cells multiply quickly and aggressively, especially if the immune system is unable to step in and help.

A Candida infection or Candidiasis can occur in a variety of locations throughout the body. Remembering that Candida already lives on the skin and in the mouth, intestinal tract, and vagina, it will come as no surprise to you that these sites are the most common areas for localized (contained to one part of the body) Candida infections. [...]

There is no known symbiotic relationship between the Human Body and Candida. Candida is in every way a parasite, taking up space and only taking, never giving.

It has been estimated that in the western, industrialized world, approximately one third of illnesses can be linked to Candida. Some doctors resort to labeling potential Candida patients as “psychosomatic” or “neurotic” when there is no other apparent cause to the patients’ symptoms. The truth, in many cases, is that patients are suffering from Candida overgrowth.

A Candida overgrowth or sensitivity will not go away on its own. Proper treatment is required for the body to deal with the yeast in an effective manner. Candida often takes hold of an individual only when one has fallen ill for another reason. Taking antibiotics, which often destroy both malignant and beneficial bacteria, can allow an illness to take hold. There also appears to be a genetic limitation in some individuals’ ability to cope with yeast. [...]

What Are the Common Causes of Candida?
>Medications and Drugs: Antibiotics, Steroids, Prescription drugs, Birth control pills
>Genital Irritation: Douching, Sprays, soaps and other hygiene products (especially the anti-bacterial kind), Direct contact with an infected area (sexual intercourse)
>Immune Dysfunction: A compromised immune system, Allergies, Fatigue (adrenal burnout), Stress, Repeated bacterial infections, Heavy Metal Toxicity
>Internal and External Environment: Environmental toxicities, Constipation and Organ Congestion, Diet, Hormone changes (PMS, menopause, pregnancy), Diabetes, Exposure (nonsexual transmission), Parasites, Low Stomach Acid

What Are the Symptoms of Candida?
1. A Childhood History of
• ADD
• ADHD
• Hyperactivity
• Skin problems
• Respiratory problems
• Intestinal problems

2. Poor Overall Health
• Poor endurance and weakness
• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• A habitual cough that doesn’t produce phlegm
• Postnasal drip
• Hay fever
• Headaches, including migraines
• Fatigue to an incapacitating degree (especially after eating)

3. Recurring Infections
• Recurring throat and/or ear infections
• Recurring vaginal, oral, or skin (yeast) infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Athlete’s foot
• Jock itch
• Skin rash
• Dry, brownish patches on the skin
• Ringworm
• Psoriasis
• Low grade fever
• Chronic sinus problems
• Blisters on the tongue, in the mouth, or in the throat

4. Digestive System Problems
• Poor digestion
• Loose or constipated stools
• Irritable bowel
• Painful gas
• Bloating
• Nausea and vomiting

5. Sexual / Genital Problems
• Menstrual difficulties
• Male impotence
• Male and female infertility

6. Mental & Emotional Problems
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Depression
• Irritability
• Paranoia
• Poor concentration, or feeling in a persistent mental ‘fog’
• Unexplained feelings of being ‘hung over,’ as if after an alcoholic binge

7. Other
• Arthritis-like symptoms
• Joint pain, similar to that of having the flu
• Cravings for carbohydrates
• Chronic dental problems
• White coating on the tongue

With such a wide variety of signs and symptoms it is common to misdiagnose a chronic
Candida infection. In many cases, a chronic Candida sufferer tries to treat a symptom to no avail only to have it reoccur later on. Treating a symptom of Candida without addressing the deeper rooted problem will not work.

At times a patient may hesitate to tell their physician that they are still not feeling better with the fear of uprising costs or being mislabeled as a hypochondriac. Many traditional medical practitioners, frustrated by continuing complaints, may suggest antidepressant medications, ultimately mistreating this infectious disease as a psychological disorder. [...]

IMPORTANT: Not all individuals presenting some combination of the above symptoms will have a Candida or Candida-related problem, but the likelihood is much higher for individuals who do present some of the symptoms above.

Who is Vulnerable to Candida?
Anyone can be infected with Candida!

Women can be infected because of antibiotic use, steroids, pain medications, anti-inflammatory medications, hormone pills, birth control pills, sexual relationships with an infected partner, and many other factors.

Men can also be infected with Candida from antibiotic use, steroids, anti-inflammatory drugs, pain medications, sexual relations with an infected partner, and many other factors.

Teenagers may develop Candida from routine treatment with tetracycline or antibiotics for acne. As a result, they may have many symptoms (especially depression, because of toxins from Candida that may affect the brain).

Children can easily get Candida from being treated with ear infection antibiotics. The antibiotics not only kill the bad bacteria, but also the good bacteria. Thus, a child may become predisposed to getting recurring ear infections (a vicious cycle: ear infection – antibiotics – ear infection – antibiotics).

Babies can get Candida from the birth canal or the breast milk of the infected mother. This explains why some babies often have thrush (a white coated tongue), which is a yeast infection.

Nursing Mothers and Babies:
As mentioned above, a nursing mother who has Candida can pass the condition onto her baby through her breast milk. To prevent this, the doctor may prescribe Diflucan or Nystatin for the mother, and liquid Nystatin for the baby. Both prevent infection and re-infection of the mother.

Sexual Relations:
When a woman gets repeated vaginal yeast infections, it is often because her partner is repeatedly re-infecting her. Candida may easily be obtained from an infected partner through sexual intercourse, especially if the immune system is weak. It is advised that during the time of the infection, a condom be used. Kissing on the mouth and oral sex should be completely avoided as well.

However, most Candida sufferers are women under the age of 50. This is often due to the initial use of a contraceptive pill for preventing pregnancy, then becoming pregnant (and the side-effect of completely throwing off the woman’s hormonal balance in both cases). This is in addition to all the other causes of Candida such as long-term exposure to drugs (even prescribed drugs), a toxic environment, and a poor diet.

Up to 35% of all women on the pill suffer from vaginal yeast infections. Chronic yeast infections are the worst for women when progesterone levels are highest, found during pregnancy and the luteal (latter) phase of the menstrual cycle. This is thought by most to be a genetic inborn weakness (which explains why the other 65% of women taking the pill were able to properly deal with the yeast in their bodies and avoid infection). Unless a full treatment of intestinal Candida overgrowth is performed, vaginal yeast infections cannot be expected to go away.

In addition, there is abundant proof that women who have sexual relations with a large number of men are at a much higher risk of cancer of the womb. Frequent changes in sexual partners is best avoided (i.e. less exposure to various diseases) to maintain a strong immune system. [...]

FYI
>Women experience Candida infection symptoms such
as:
• vaginal burning, irritation, itching
• burning or pain when urinating
• discomfort during or after sexual intercourse
• odor (not unpleasant)
• genital itching, burning, redness, and/or swelling

In addition to this women are also prone to the hormone imbalances that Candida creates in terms of increasing estrogen levels. This can lead to various health issues such as severe PMS or infertility.

>Yeast promotes the process of fermentation... The purpose of yeast is to break down sugar into water, alcohol, carbon dioxide gas, and acid.

>You probably won’t notice the water produced but the carbon dioxide released by the fermentation process causes discomfort in the form of painful bloating, flatulence, belching, and an upset stomach.

The real problem with yeast however, is when the sugar is broken down into alcohol. Alcohol in the human body metabolizes into a chemical byproduct of fermentation called acetaldehyde. It is what’s responsible for the unpleasant feelings that accompany a hangover. Acetaldehyde is about 30 times as toxic as alcohol, and if you suffer from Candida your body is producing this everyday!

[...]

+WHAT CAUSES A YEAST INFECTION? (vid)

7/27/2009

Views on Tattoos








Smart About Body Art
[NOW Magazine - Jul.09-09]

Tatts are a blast, but watch out who's needling your butt

There's been some scary stuff in the news lately about tattoo parlours getting pinged for health and safety violations. Most of it's about problems maintaining sterilization equipment, which might get you checking out who's going to inscribe that butterfly on your butt.

But disease and infection aren't the only tattoo concerns. You can have an allergic reaction, or your body can reject the ink. That happened once to a friend of mine with tats he'd had for years with no problems.

My own flying fish gets raised and itchy from time to time. Is it changes in weather? And weirdest of all, hair dye now comes with the warning that people with tattoos are more likely to suffer allergic reactions to the product.

But we get etched anyway - because we love it. And so do many cultures who believe drawings on their bods have magical and curative powers.

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY
"Before a Thai Buddhist tattoo master, or arjan, gives a tattoo, he reads your aura to determine your design. Magical tattoos not only draw on the power of the tattooist, who is a monk, but also his mentors and the Buddha. The inks are personal recipes, and some are thought to have protective qualities. Some arjans use sandalwood steeped in herbs or white sesame oil, others the exfoliated skin of a revered arjan added to Chinese ink mixed with holy water.
The Ainu of Japan practised medicinal tattooing to relieve rheumatism, as did Arctic peoples like the St. Lawrence Island Yupiget of Alaska. Dot-like tattoos were placed on joints and correspond to acupuncture points."
--Lars Krutak
(tattoo anthropologist, Washington, DC)

"Look at the general appearance of the artists, their cleanliness, the way you're received. Any good shop will show you the spore test results. There is a new type of bandage that helps your tattoo heal in days instead of weeks. It's expensive. Keep the tattoo clean and moist. Barri-Care acts as a barrier between the wound and the outside environment. Emu oil has phenomenal healing properties. It's a little expensive. While healing, wash the tattoo once a day and apply the ointment provided three times a day. No direct sun or water exposure for two weeks. When it starts to flake, use an unscented body lotion."
--Joey Nixon
(co-owner, Adrenaline, Toronto)

"We worry most about allergic reactions to the ink that require us to laser the tattoo out and get rid of the ink completely. The ink is a foreign body, and there can be an immune response to it. That's why tattoos get raised and itchy. People react most commonly to red. Weather can also somtimes trigger a release of histamine, which causes puffiness and dilation of the blood vessels. If you're already allergic to something in tattoos, you could react to hair dye. Every time you're exposed to something you're allergic to, your reaction to it will be stronger."
--Lisa Kellett
(dermatologist, Toronto)

"Education requirements for tattooists are very minimal in North America. Clients should ask to see spore test records. These guarantee that the autoclave sterilizer that cleans piercing needles is working. Pigments are in the process of being regulated, and soon ingredients will have to be listed in Canada. Going to somebody's home is the worst thing to do. The greatest risk is community-acquired MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). We've seen more and more outbreaks in the tattoo community."
--David Vidra
(Health Educators, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio)

"Public health units are supposed to inspect personal services settings such as tattoo parlours at least once a year. The frequency of inspection may be higher in response to complaints or if the parlour is non-compliant with infection prevention and control practices. The Ministry of Health expects public health units to ensure that these settings are safe and provide quality services to their patrons."
--David Jensen
(media relations coordinator, Ontario ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Toronto)

BEFORE YOU TATTOO: Tattoo Types, Safety & Removal (slideshow)


PLAYLIST
1. LA Ink - Jesse Metcalf
2. LA Ink - Eric Balfour
3. Miami Ink - Anthony Bourdain
As we move through life we leave marks on it, and I'm aware of this trail I've left behind me of both good things and bad things. It just feels somehow right that if you're leaving marks on the world, that the world should leave marks on you.

11/06/2008

Feeling Bloated?

Gluten-free cupcakes by traceytakesphotos (flickr.com)


CELIAC DISEASE is an inherited, autoimmune disease in which the lining of the small intestine is damaged from eating gluten and other proteins found in wheat, barley, rye, and possibly oats.

Alternative names: SPRUE , NONTROPICAL SPRUE , GLUTEN INTOLERANCE , GLUTEN-SENSITIVE ENTEROPATHY.

The exact CAUSE of celiac disease is unknown. The intestines contain projections (called villi) that absorb nutrients. In undiagnosed or untreated celiac disease , these villi become flattened, and the ability to absorb nutrients properly is altered.

The disease can develop at any point in life, from infancy to late adulthood.

Those with a family member with celiac disease are at greater risk for developing the disease. The disorder is most common in Caucasians and those of European ancestry. Women are affected more commonly than men.

There are numerous DISEASES & CONDITIONS associated with celiac disease , including:
Anemia
Autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus
Certain types of intestinal cancer
Dermatitis herpetiformis
Down syndrome
Lactose intolerance
Miscarriage or unexplained infertility
Neurological conditions
Osteoporosis or osteopenia
Thyroid disease
Type 1 diabetes

A partial listing of GASTROINTESTINAL SYMPTOMS:
Abdominal pain
Abdominal distention , bloating , gas, indigestion
Constipation
Decreased appetite (may also be increased or unchanged)
Diarrhea , chronic or occasional
Lactose intolerance (common upon diagnosis, usually goes away following treatment)
Nausea and vomiting
Stools that float, are foul smelling, bloody , or “fatty”
Unexplained weight loss (although people can be overweight or of normal weight upon diagnosis)

A partial listing of NON-INTESTINAL SYMPTOMS:
Anemia (low blood count)
Bone and joint pain
Bone disease (osteoporosis, kyphoscoliosis, fracture)
Breathlessness (due to anemia)
Bruising easily
Dental enamel defects and discoloration
Depression
Fatigue
Growth delay in children
Hair loss
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Irritability and behavioral changes
Malnutrition
Mouth ulcers
Muscle cramps
Nosebleed
Seizures
Short stature, unexplained
Skin disorders (dermatitis herpetiformis)
Swelling, general or abdominal
Vitamin or mineral deficiency, single or multiple nutrient (for example, iron, folate, vitamin K)

TREATMENT
You must follow a life-long gluten-free diet. This allows the intestinal villi to heal. Foods, beverages, and medications that contain wheat, barley, rye, and possibly oats should be eliminated completely. You must read food and medication labels carefully to look for hidden sources of these grains and their derivatives. Since wheat and barley grains are found abundantly in the American diet, keeping to this diet is challenging. With education and planning, you will achieve the goal of healing .

Vitamin and mineral supplements may be prescribed to correct nutritional deficiencies.

Upon diagnosis , seek consultation from a registered dietitian with a specialty in celiac disease and the gluten-free diet. A support group may also help you cope with the disease and diet.

PROGNOSIS
Removing all damaging grains from the diet is the most important measure you can take to become healthy. If you follow the diet strictly, you can expect to lead a long, healthy life -- if permanent damage did not occur before diagnosis.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
The gluten-free diet must be carefully and continuously followed. When untreated, the disease can cause life-threatening complications. A delayed diagnosis or non-compliance with the diet places you at risk for developing associated conditions such as infertility , miscarriage , osteoporosis , fractures, certain types of intestinal cancer, or other autoimmune disorders.

PREVENTION
Because the exact cause is unknown, there is no known way to prevent the development of celiac disease . However, being aware of the risk factors (such as having a family member with the disorder) may increase your chances of early diagnosis , treatment, and a long, healthy life.

Celiac Disease

GLUTEN
Gluten is the elastic, rubbery protein present in wheat, rye, barley and to a lesser degree in oats. It binds the dough in foods such as bread and other baked goods. It contributes to spongy consistency. Rice and maize do not contain gluten.
However, gluten is only one protein found in wheat, rye and barley. These foods, like all other foods, contain a number of discreet proteins that all can result in adverse reactions, including allergies.
For example, wheat protein comprises 4 main groups of proteins: water-soluble, salt-soluble, alcohol-soluble and alcohol-insoluble. The major proteins in wheat-albumin, globulin, gliadin and glutenin (gluten)-vary in proportion according to the type of wheat.
Gluten

AVOID
Barley
Malt Vinegar
Rye
Wheat

The following terms found on FOOD LABELS may mean that there is gluten in the product:
>Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP), unless made from soy or corn
>Flour or Cereal products, unless made with pure rice flour, corn flour, potato flour, or soy flour
>Vegetable Protein unless made from soy or corn
>Malt or Malt Flavoring unless derived from corn
>Modified Starch or Modified Food Starch unless arrowroot, corn, potato, tapioca, waxy maize, or maize is used
>Vegetable Gum unless vegetable gums are carob bean gum, locust bean gum, cellulose gum, guar gum, gum arabic, gum aracia, gum tragacanth, xanthan gum, or vegetable starch
>Soy Sauce or Soy Sauce Solids unless you know they do not contain wheat

Any of the following words on FOOD LABELS usually means that a grain containing gluten has been used:
stabilizer
starch
flavoring
emulsifier
hydrolyzed plant protein

Gluten-Free Diet Chart

AVOID: When eating at a restaurant: Breaded foods / Creamed foods / Meatloaf & gravies
Gluten-Free Diet


FYI

Oats is a grain the merits special attention. Oats are believed safe in patients with celiac disease although this was not always the case. The problem with oat products is not the grain but rather the manufacturing process. When oats are processed in the same facilities as wheat, contamination can occur even with the best cleaning protocol. Oat products can now be found that are not cross contaminated. These can be tried after an initial period of 6 months to see if they can be tolerated. Most, but not all patients can tolerate pure oat products.

Foods may also contain less obvious sources of gluten as there is no requirement for manufacturers to specify the composition of ingredients that contribute less than 10% of a food. For example, it may be difficult to determine the origin of a soy sauce included as an ingredient in a commercial marinade. This means that gluten may be carried over into the marinade via the soy sauce. It is best to contact the manufacturer directly to determine the source of these ingredients.

It is essential that all food labels be rechecked regularly since the composition may change. Avoid any food that is doubtful.

Always check that medications and vitamins are gluten free.

Dairy foods may not be tolerated when someone with celiac disease has active symptoms, since lactose intolerance frequently develops. However, this is due to the lactose sugar in the dairy foods, rather than the proteins, which can cause milk allergy.

Even if there are no obvious symptoms, celiac sprue can cause serious vitamin and nutritional deficiencies, since the intestines may not be able to absorb important nutrients if gluten is being eaten.

Rates of certain cancers of the gastrointestinal tract are much higher in people with celiac sprue, and there is evidence that this risk is decreased with a gluten-free diet.

Mothers with untreated celiac disease are at increased risk for having a low birth weight baby.

Since bone loss is a common problem in people with celiac sprue (due in part to vitamin D deficiency), frequent monitoring with bone density scans is recommended.

Manufacturers are known to change ingredients without warning. This may be due to changes in the recipe, changes in the ingredients supplied to the manufacturer, or changes in the production & manufacturing methods, including cross contamination concerns.

Certain unacceptable ingredients may be hidden under the name of natural flavorings.

Modified food starch is a vague term which does not indicate the source of the starch (wheat or corn).

One way to determine if gluten is causing problems is to avoid it strictly for several weeks to see if any change occurs. Another method is to have a blood sample taken & tested for gluten antibodies. While a blood test for wheat allergy could be negative, there may be reactivity to digestive by-products of wheat.

The only treatment for celiac disease is to follow a gluten-free diet. For most people, following this diet will stop symptoms, heal existing intestinal damage, and prevent further damage. Improvements begin within days of starting the diet, and the small intestine is usually completely healed in 3 to 6 months. Healing may take up to 2 years for older adults.

If you would like to make something very high in fiber with an incredibly low glycemic index you will want to use 100% coconut flour. To do this we recommend you purchase the book Cooking With Coconut Flour by Dr. Bruce Fife. The entire book contains delicious recipes that use solely coconut fiber for the flour. These recipes use eggs for the binder or "glue" and they are very low in sugar or sweeteners. These recipes are great for diabetics, people with gluten allergies, and people with Candida and "leaky gut" issues. Coconut fiber/flour is an excellent product to use to promote healthy intestinal tract.

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a severe itchy, blistering skin disease caused by gluten intolerance. DH is related to celiac disease since both are autoimmune disorders caused by gluten intolerance, but they are separate diseases. The rash usually occurs on the elbows, knees, and buttocks.

1 out of 133 people in the United States is diagnosed with Celiac Disease.

Coeliac Disease is one of the commonest life-long disorders in Western countries. CD is frequently under-diagnosed, particularly in adults, who may present with subtle symptoms. In some countries the incidence is as high as 1 in 200 (Sweden) or 1 in 10,000 (Denmark).

Individuals with Celiac Disease are often mistakenly diagnosed as having Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Medication is ineffective in treating Celiac Disease. The only treatment available is the complete removal of gluten from the diet.

A variety of reactions to proteins in cereals is possible. These include allergy and Coeliac disease. Adverse reactions may be mild to life-threatening, short-term to life-long. A correct diagnosis must be made as the treatment, dietary avoidance, is often very difficult and if incorrectly applied can lead to vitamin deficiencies or malnutrition.


MORE LINKS

Celiac.com

Product Info

Gluten-Free Diet (The Analyst)

Celiac Disease & Gluten-Free Forum

Dermititis Herpetiformis

The DHOC

Wheat Allergy or Gluten Intolerance?

The Gluten-Free Guide to Eating

Gluten-Free Food

Gluten-Free Girl

Gluten Free Blog

Athlete's Self-Diagnosis

Celiac Disease on jezebel.com

Breaking the Vicious Cycle
Customer review: "And contrary to what some reviewers have written here, this diet is not about what you should eat, but about *what not to eat* in order to get well. There's plenty of choice for all types of foods, for a well balanced and healthy diet."

Cooking With Coconut Flour
Customer Review: "This book uses coconut flour and the recipes are moist and springy and as close to wheat-like as possible. Also, the baked goods stay moist for days."

How to Start Living Gluten-Free

Recipes & Blogs