Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder where ingesting gluten damages the small intestine. Managing it requires a combination of medical, dietary, and lifestyle approaches. Here are ten steps to take against celiac disease:
- Get Diagnosed by a Professional: If you suspect celiac disease, consult a Celiac specialist such as Manhattan Gastroenterology for accurate diagnosis through blood tests and an endoscopy. Self-diagnosis or adopting a gluten-free diet without testing can complicate the diagnostic process.
- Follow a Strict Gluten-Free Diet: A lifelong gluten-free diet is the primary treatment for celiac disease. This means avoiding all foods containing wheat, barley, rye, and derivatives of these grains.
- Learn to Read Labels: Become proficient at reading food labels to identify hidden sources of gluten. Gluten can be present in many processed foods, sauces, and even medications. Some names to keep an eye out for:
- Malt
- Pumpernickel
- Triticale
- Kamut
- Hydrolyzed wheat protein
- Hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP) which may be derived from wheat
- Modified food starch (if source is not specified, it might be wheat)
- Dextrin (if source is not specified, it might be wheat)
- Brewer’s yeast (often a byproduct of beer brewing which uses barley)
- Durum
- Einkorn
- Farina (milled wheat used in cereals)
- Farro (an ancient grain of wheat)
- Semolina (used in pasta and couscous)
- Cross-Contamination Awareness: Be vigilant about cross-contamination in your kitchen and dining out. Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and toasters for gluten-free foods.
- Nutritional Counseling: Work with a dietitian specializing in celiac disease to ensure you meet all nutritional needs. This helps prevent deficiencies commonly associated with a gluten-free diet.
- Regular Medical Follow-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your health, assess for potential complications, and ensure adherence to the gluten-free diet.7. Supplements if Needed: Discuss with your doctor whether you need supplements to address deficiencies in iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins, common in people with celiac disease.
- Supplements if Needed: Discuss with your doctor whether you need supplements to address deficiencies in iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins, common in people with celiac disease.
- Join a Support Group: Connecting with others who have celiac disease can provide emotional support, practical tips, and a sense of community. Look for local or online support groups.
- Educate Your Inner Circle: Educate family, friends, and co-workers about celiac disease and the importance of a strict gluten-free diet to help them support your needs effectively.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest research and updates on celiac disease. New products, resources, and medical advancements are continually emerging, and staying informed can help you manage the condition more effectively.
By following these steps, individuals with celiac disease can lead a healthy, fulfilling life while minimizing the risks and complications associated with the disorder.
The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.
