This week, David J. Blyweiss, M.D. asked to share his knowledge about how our Celiac community can stay gluten free and healthy through the Holiday season. Here's what Dr. Blyweiss had to say:
Is it possible to stay gluten-free through all the holiday parties and family gatherings this season? It is but it can be a challenge for anyone. If you have celiac disease, your immune system treats gluten like a toxin. It was once a rare disorder, but now celiac disease is four times more common today than it was five decades ago.
Even if you don’t suffer from the disease itself, many are still sensitive to gluten — especially if you suffer from:
· Stomach pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and/or constipation, vomiting.
· Migraines
· Joint pain
· Chronic fatigue
· Brain fog
· Hay fever and sinus infections
· Skin rashes, especially eczema or hives
· Unexplained weight loss