Gluten Makes me sick

Vitamin D/Gluten issues

2009-06-01T18:33:00.002-04:00

Because ingested vitamin D in the form of foods or supplements is absorbed in the small intestine, people with small bowel disorders such as Celiac disease are usually deficient in vitamin D.

Info on Vitamin D “Click to read”

The fat absorption issue with celiac disease/gluten intolerance is a problem with vitamin D absorption (it’s a fat soluble vitamin). Researchers from www.grassrootshealth.net indicated that celiac’s and gluten sensitive individuals sometimes need as much as 2x the amount of vitamin D a non-celiac person would in order to get enough to get to the desired serum levels (40-60 ng/ml).

Information

http://www.grassrootshealth.net/

JOIN the D*action http://www.joindaction.org/ program

Food sources

Vitamin D is found naturally in very few foods. Foods containing vitamin D include some fatty fish (mackerel, salmon, sardines), fish liver oils, and eggs from hens that have been fed vitamin D. In the U.S., milk and infant formula are fortified with vitamin D so that they contain 400 IU (10 mcg) per quart. However, other dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, are not always fortified with vitamin D. Some cereals and breads are also fortified with vitamin D. ( won't help those on a gluten free diet ) if they contain gluten. Recently, orange juice fortified with vitamin D has been made available in the U.S.

Most alternative gluten FREE cereals don't contain Vitamin D

The "one" mainstream gluten-free cereal, rice, corn, Honey nut chex does, while many mainstream breakfast cereals are fortified with vitamin D, most gluten-free cereals are not. The only specially-formulated gluten-free cereal that I am aware of that is fortified with D is General Mills brand Rice Chex, corn chex and Honey Nut chex Each 1 cup of cereal provides 10% of the Daily Value for D (40 International Units).

Testing
The test you want to order is 25(OH)D, also called 25-hydroxyvitamin

You can also have testing done here http://www.joindaction.org/

MAY is Awareness Month

2009-05-21T10:50:00.004-04:00

If you go here American Celiac Disease Alliance

you can read additional information (Awareness)

Uno's

Uno's understands people with celiac disease want to eat out and must have safe options. The casual dining chain will host a National Dough Rai$er for Celiac Awareness the week of May 25 - 31. Its the perfect time to highlight the restaurant's gluten-free menu. Even better, families and friends can enjoy Uno's Gluten-Free pizza! Check the map for your nearest location and print this voucher to take with you. Watch your emailbox for further details from the ACDA. Not on our mailing list? Sign-up Today!

Governors Sign Awareness Proclamations

Resident celiacs have stepped forward this month to help educate their state's top executive. The result? Governors John Lynch (New Hampshire), Martin O'Malley (Maryland), Ted Kulongoski (Oregon), and Sonny Perdue (Georgia) have each proclaimed 'May' as Celiac Awareness Month in their respective states. Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon has made a similar declaration. These pronouncements further demonstrate that celiac disease is a condition which merits greater attention.

Thank you, Governors and Mayor Dixon!

Rep. Lowey Bill Educates Members of Congress

Food labeling champion, Rep. Nita Lowey (NY) has re-introduced the National Celiac Awareness legislation. As in the past, this measure is used to educate her colleagues about celiac disease and the issues faced by those with the genetic condition. Write your representative to support H.Con.Res. 110.

Sandwich bread alteratives

2009-05-20T16:42:00.001-04:00

Thinking "outside" of the bun and bread

Pretty simply

Bunless burgers, hot dogs, Bunless veggie burgers, bunless salmon burgers "Most" kids enjoy hot dogs without the bun to begin with, so why not enjoy these other foods without the "bun" "Gluten"

Some additional ways to eat without the Gluten "bun/bread"

Corn Tortillas - Need a little heat.
Heat up ham and cheese in a corn tortilla. Quick and easy

These do need a little heat to keep from falling apart, but it doesn't take much. For a quick sandwich, lightly spray the tortilla with oil and put in a hot skillet over medium heat. Top it with a slice of cheese and ham or other sandwich filling. Let the cheese melt and fold over like an omelette. Quick and easy hot sandwich. Great for hot dogs and hamburgers too!

You should be able to find these at any grocery store.

Corn Thins - Great for kids.
Similar size and shape to rice cakes. My kids love to eat these for snacks, plain or with toppings, cream cheese and jelly, ham and cheese, bologna, etc. Consider eating for a quick breakfast too.

These are carried at a lot of health food stores, online and some mainstream stores.

Rice Cakes You are probably familiar with these. My kids enjoy Rice cake sandwiches.

These are easy to find at any grocery store or online.

Lettuce - Keep cool until time to eat.
Why not use lettuce to wrap your sandwich fillings? There are a variety of lettuces that would work for this. Take a big leaf and place your fillings in the middle, fold it taco-style, and enjoy! Perfect for egg salad, ham and cheese, hamburgers, hot dogs and more.

Gluten FREE Pancakes and Waffles
I'm sure you've got these in your freezer, it’s as quick and easy as popping them into a toaster. Spread peanut butter and jelly on them, Nutella chocolate hazelnut spread, cream cheese and jelly or fresh fruit… you get the idea. You can even use homemade gluten free Pancakes and waffles. Kids will enjoy these.

Rice Paper/Spring Roll Wraps - Need to hydrate.
How about using rice paper for wrapping up sandwich fillings. These round paper-thin wraps are stiff and fragile until you hydrate them. You hydrate them by simply placing them in a plate of water. It only takes about 10 seconds. Take them out of the water before it gets too soggy and starts to disintegrate. Let the excess water drip off, then place on a clean plate, or a crisp linen towel. (At this point, the wrap should be flexible enough to roll up. If not, give it a few more seconds in the water.) Place your fillings in the center of the top third of the wrap. Fold the top over the fillings, then fold in the sides. Next, roll it toward you, tucking and tightening it as you go. You’ll notice that the wrap is slightly sticky and stretchy. Use parchment or wax paper to wrap each one if you need to transport or save for later. Serve as is, or cut in half and serve with dressing.

You can find these at many grocery stores on the shelves with Asian foods. If your grocery store doesn't carry them, try an Asian food market or online.

Stay positive and think "outside" of the box think of what we can eat NOT what we can't Make living gluten free FUN I know I have. I feel happy and healthier because of it!!!!!!!!

Gluten Free Sponge Cake

2009-05-04T15:25:00.008-04:00

4
1 cup
4 Tb
1 cup
1 tsp
Eggs, separated
Sugar
Cold water
Sifted cake flour
Baking powder
Beat egg yolks and sugar together until very light.
Add water.
Sift together flour and baking powder. Add to batter.
Beat egg whites until stiff. Fold into batter.
Pour batter into prepared pan.
Oven Temp ~ 325°
Baking Time ~ 30 Min.

Yummy

Starbucks

2009-04-21T10:37:00.003-04:00

Soooo exciting!!

From the Starbucks blog:

Hi, it's Erin on the Food team. I am so excited today to share an update on our blog about Gluten-free offerings. Starting May 5 we will be launching the Gluten-free Orange Valencia Cake with Almonds. And even better you are among the first to know!

Who better to get the first scoop than you who helped make it happen? This product was inspired by the passionate responses we heard from you on My Starbucks Idea.

The Orange Valencia Cake is a delicious moist citrus cake bursting with Valencia oranges and topped with crunchy almonds. Not only is it gluten-free, it is also prepared with 7 simple ingredients: Whole Eggs, Valencia Orange Pulp, Almonds, Sugar, Orange Peel, Gluten Free Baking Powder, and Orange Oil. Plus it delivers 30% of your daily value of vitamin C. Keep on the look out for it in the pastry case with a sign that says "gluten-free."

A single cake will be displayed unwrapped so you can see it clearly, but don't worry. They all come individually packaged to prevent cross contamination. And with the ingredient list right on the package, it's easy to see exactly what you are eating. Whether you are gluten-sensitive or not, this product is delicious and satisfying and I hope you will all enjoy it soon.

Want to know how it's made gluten-free? Come back to MSI in two weeks and Chris, the lead product developer will take you behind the scenes and share how this cake is made with care.

Gluten-free Food Update

What if I told you there was a little protein that could cause…

2009-04-21T10:05:00.006-04:00

fatigue
depression
joint aches
bone pain
abdominal pain
bloating
diarrhea
low nutrient absorption
short stature
infertility
premature balding
cancer

Everyone say “hi gluten!”

Gluten is a troublesome protein that appears to be doing more damage to our healths than we initially thought. This little guy is found in wheat, barley, and rye "some" say Oat

A certain percentage of us contain genes that see gluten for the foreign substance that it truly is. Our immune system reacts to it, but that immune response itself can become toxic. As we load up on bagels over the years, the immune reaction to gluten can be toxic enough to cause a whole buffet of problems.

(Depression thought to be the most common, along with other vague symptoms like fatigue.)

(How many of us are gluten sensitive?)

According to some research it might be 50% or more. But there are other genes that determine whether a toxic immune response will occur and to what extent that response damages our tissue. It’s confusing, but it boils down to this:

It is believed that 30-50% or more of the population is gluten sensitive, thus are deteriorating their health by eating wheat.

When Gluten Gets into Our Bloodstream

2009-02-27T09:08:00.004-05:00

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity:

When Gluten Gets into Our Bloodstream

Anyone can experience Gluten Sensitivity as a normal immune response to the abnormal presence of gluten in blood or body tissues.

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity can develop if gluten, or rather, harmful partially digested fragments of gluten, wrongly pass through the small intestinal lining into our bloodstream. From the blood, these protein fragments can harm any of our body tissues.

Two important factors that may subject non-celiac people to a gluten sensitivity reaction are high gluten load, and increased permeability of the small intestinal lining, also called "Leaky Gut Syndrome."

1. High Gluten load

A high gluten load simply means we are eating a diet that contains too much gluten. Of course, the more gluten we eat, the greater is the risk of protein fragments entering our bloodstream.

2. Increased Permeability of the Small Intestinal Lining (Leaky Gut Syndrome)

Gluten may drive the immune system, even outside the gastrointestinal tract (extra-intestinal), to cause other diseases that we don't call celiac disease, but which are still derived from gluten.¹ Studies reveal extra-intestinal manifestations with positive blood tests for anti-gliadin antibodies without evidence of celiac disease. This finding indicates gluten entering the bloodstream via increased membrane permeability of the small intestine.

What is increased permeability or leakage?

Increased permeability of the small intestinal lining, also called hyperpermeability, refers to alteration of the complex barrier system that separates what's in our gut from the rest of our body. This protective system determines what substances may be allowed to cross from the inside of our small intestine to our bloodstream. An abnormal barrier allows harmful substances to "permeate" into deeper layers of the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream.

The major defense of the barrier system against permeation by harmful substances is comprised of tight intercellular junctions. Tight junctions (TJ) refer to the regulated spaces between enterocytes (cells forming the surface lining of our small intestine), causing these cells to closely adhere to each other, side-by-side. Disruption of TJ allows harmful substances such as gluten fragments to slip through them.

Only a single layer of epithelial cells separates the contents of our small intestine from the lamina propria (underlying tissues of the small intestine) and the rest of our body. Breaching of this single layer of cells can expose effector immune cells located in the lamina propria to a myriad of microorganisms and food antigens, leading to immune reactions.²

Breakdown of the barrier is implicated in the pathogenesis (development) of acute illnesses such as bacterial translocation leading to sepsis and multiple organ failure. It also has been implicated in several auto-immune disease, including Celiac Disease, Type I Diabetes Mellitus, Autism, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and atopic disorders such as Asthma, Rhinitis, Eczema, and Allergies.³

What factors other than gluten disrupt tight intercellular junctions?

gastrointestinal infections from microbes such as rotavirus, parasites, pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli, Clostridium difficile toxins), and mycotoxins (toxins produced by fungi found in stored grain and dried fruit).
fats such as rancid fats, sodium caprate, a medium-chain fat, and sucrose monester fatty acid, a food-grade surfactant, induce significant disruption.
foods such as alcohol, lactose, caffeine, paprika, cayenne pepper, refined carbohydrates, some food preservatives and food additives.
medications such as oral antibiotics, NSAIDS ( eg, Aspirin, Advil), corticosteroids, and oral contraceptives.
psychological stress, oxidative stress
intense exercise
aging

What restores tight intercellular junctions?

Correction of the factors that cause TJ disruption and eating a gluten-free diet with foods that have been shown to restore TJ function after injury, such as:

EPA and gamma linolenic acid (omega-3 fatty acids).
butyrate (a short-chain fatty acid).
glutamine (an essential amino acid).
Black pepper and nutmeg.

What health problems can develop?

Mild problems that may come and go include irritability, sluggishness, tiredness, achiness, the "blues", fatigue, and disinterest in things that should cause interest. With less mental acuity and drive, a person with these symptoms may feel like a "couch potato." Others may say things like, "What's got into you?" or "You never want to do things anymore." Or "You don't take care of the house like you used to do." Children may not pay attention, whine or cry alot.

Gluten can wreak havoc throughout the body if leakiness is severe or prolonged. Gluten can affect the mind causing problems like depression and anxiety. Thinking difficulties may develop such as poor attention, judgment and memory or outright confusion. Behavioral problems may include hyperactivity or inappropriate social interaction. In some people, psychotic symptoms can develop which may be reversed on a gluten-free diet.

How can gluten cause problems in the brain?

The same gut-brain mechanism that allows oral medications used to treat mental problems, such as depression, to enter the brain also allows gluten to enter. Neuoroactive compounds [substances that affect the brain] derived from within the intestine can permeate either diseased or healthy mucosa, cross the blood-brain barrier and cause psychiatric, cognitive and behavioral disturbances.⁴Both gluten and beta-casein in milk are neuroactive compounds that cross the intestinal lining into the bloodstream and cause the mental symptoms in susceptible people such as autism and schizophrenia. When gluten is the cause of schizophrenia, studies show that symptoms disappear in 2 weeks but will reappear in 3 days if gluten is again ingested.

What other problems can develop from gluten in the bloodstream?

Wherever gluten goes, it alarms our immune system to react because it damages any tissue it touches. When our body surrounds and encloses it, we form granulomas. These hard nodules can develop in the liver, joints, and skin. Granulomas are like pearls formed by an oyster. Our body encapsulates gluten to keep it from hurting our tissues much like an oyster does a grain of sand that lodges inside of it.

The longer we eat gluten, the greater is our risk of developing other auto-immune disorders such as, Alopecia Areata (hair loss), Psoriasis (skin disorder), Addison's Disease (adrenal gland disorder), Grave's Disease (hyperthyroid disorder) and Auto-immune Hepatitis (liver disorder).

In auto-immune disorders, the development of anti-gliadin antibodies may be attributed to the response to food protein [from gluten] and is often not closely related with Celiac Disease.¹

What should I do if I think I have this problem?

If you suspect you have this problem, see your doctor. He may want to rule out Celiac Disease because Leaky Gut Syndrome is a part of this disorder. In either condition, blood tests for anti-gliadin antibodies can be done that specifically test for gluten. Other tests that determine Increased Intestinal Permeability (Leaky Gut) include Breath Hydrogen Test and Sugar Absorption Test. Both of these tests are simple.

Book/reasons to go Gluten-Free

2009-02-21T09:23:00.008-05:00

Great book
Living Gluten-Free For Dummies

Practical, friendly guide to successfully managing

a gluten-free diet.

Reasons to go Gluten-Free

A gluten-free diet isn’t just for those with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. Although eating wheat products, especially whole wheat, does offer some health benefits, the gluten can actually be harmful. Here are some reasons you may want to go gluten-free.

Humans don’t fully digest wheat. The undigested portions of wheat begin to ferment, producing gas. Icky, belchable, fart-forming gas.
Wheat is a pro-inflammatory agent. A pro-inflammatory agent is rapidly converted to sugar, causing a rise in the body’s insulin levels, causing a burst of inflammation at the cellular level, among other problems.
Wheat can cause leaky gut syndrome. Leaky gut syndrome is a condition whereby stuff is leaking from your gut into your bloodstream — stuff that shouldn’t be there, such as toxins.
Refined wheat has little nutritional value. Did you know that manufacturers actually have to enrich refined wheat because they’ve taken out all the nutrients? And even then, the wheat’s not that valuable, nutritionally speaking.
Wheat is one of the top-eight allergens. Millions of people are allergic to wheat — so many, in fact, that it has made it onto the top-eight allergen list.
Many people have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, and don’t know it. So, how many people fall into this category? No one knows for sure. But 1 in 133 people have celiac disease — but most don’t know it. No one knows how many people have gluten sensitivity, but estimates are that it may be as high as 50 percent, or even 70 percent, of the population

"Blood tests are not the final say"

2009-02-21T08:50:00.004-05:00

Celiac disease is also a genetic disorder, so it runs in families. About 1 in 133 Americans have the condition, but that number may rise to 1 in 22 for those who have an immediate family member with gluten intolerance. As you can see with my family these numbers are smaller I have THREE with diagnosed gluten issues.

Gluten Intolerance is currently 97% Undiagnosed, Imagine what these numbers would be if we had more awareness.

You can also be Gluten Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitive (NCGS) ~15% of all people or 1 in 7 are gluten sensitive. No one knows the numbers for sure, but a huge segment of the population is 'gluten sensitive' or 'intolerant' without having celiac disease. For me I personally believe Gluten is a much bigger issue on MANY levels then mainstream medicine believes.

Many people turn to blood tests as a first investigation. Because the most common test for Gluten intolerance is still the old-fashioned Celiac test (blood tests and intestinal biopsy), most Gluten intolerant people return a 'negative' or inconclusive test. Does this mean they don't have issues with Gluten? sure doesn't, you can be gluten sensitive on many level's not just celiac.

"food for thought"

We know that humans don't fully digest wheat. Animals with more than one stomach, like cows and sheep do. But we don't. That means undigested gluten gets into the stomach, where it can ferment, causing gas and boating.*

We also know that wheat, even in people without an intolerance, can cause 'leaky gut syndrome' by creating a more permeable intestinal lining. This extra permeability allows gluten, toxins, and other substances, to get into the bloodstream where they can initiate immune responses and produce otherwise unexplainable symptoms.* I'm pretty convinced "gluten" causes MANY more issues than "mainstream" medicine admits.

Great article, "Click on link to read"

Blood tests are not the final say

Uno Chicago Grill

2009-01-15T09:42:00.002-05:00

Uno Chicago Grill Rolls Out Gluten-Free Pizza Nationally

BOSTON, Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Following a highly successful market test, Uno Chicago Grill(R) will offer its new, gluten-free pizza nationally. Uno(R) is the first national casual dining chain to offer a gluten-free pizza and received very positive feedback from guests who suffer from celiac disease, which affects approximately one percent of the population.

In fact, word-of-mouth reaction from the gluten-free community during the northeastern market test prompted the company to advance the timetable for a national rollout.

"Food allergies are a very serious, sometimes life-threatening, issue for many Americans," notes Uno CEO Frank Guidara. "Pizza is our signature product, and we wanted to offer a gluten-free pizza so all of our guests could enjoy it when dining at Uno."

"Consumer reaction was so positive in the gluten-free community that our restaurants began receiving requests to carry the new pizza," noted Richard Hendrie, senior vice president, marketing, Uno Chicago Grill. "Because the demand was so strong, we decided to pull out all the stops to get the gluten-free pizza into our 200-plus locations as quickly as possible."

Recently lauded as America's Healthiest Chain Restaurant, Uno has added gluten-free cheese and pepperoni pizzas to what is already one of the most extensive gluten-free menus available for a casual dining chain. This is good news to the estimated three million Americans diagnosed with celiac disease, as well as an additional seven million Americans who have a wheat intolerance or allergy and rely on gluten-free foods. While awareness of celiac disease is rising, an estimated 97 percent of those who have it remain undiagnosed.

Guidara explained that it took over a year of research and development to find just the right recipe for a brand that is known for its iconic pizza. "While we want to meet the needs of guests with allergies, we never forget that we are about great taste and choice, and that means developing new dishes that are healthful without sacrificing great flavor."

Uno Chicago Grill works closely with its Nutrition Advisory Board, which meets quarterly to discuss trends and solutions to improve the quality and nutritional value of its menu. Guidara oversees the Advisory Board and brings his expertise as a member of the Harvard School of Public Health Nutrition Roundtable.

According to the Gluten Intolerance Group, surveys show that about 15 to 25 percent of consumers report looking for gluten-free products, far more than need to.

Uno boasts a number of healthy firsts, including being the first national restaurant chain to eliminate artificial trans-fats and to increase menu and nutritional transparency via nutrition information centers located in their restaurants. The company's gluten-free menu has 20 items ranging from entrees, salads, sides and desserts. For guest convenience and safety, Uno clearly labels menu items with ingredients that are linked to the most common food allergies, such as fish/shellfish, soy, tree nuts/peanuts, egg, milk and wheat/gluten. Diners can also preview the menu and nutritional information online via the company's website at http://www.unos.com/.

Starbucks

2009-01-15T09:19:00.003-05:00

One popular idea is for Starbucks to offer more gluten-free options.

We’ve started doing some operational testing in a select number of our stores and the baristas & customers who participated were psyched about the idea. One barista shared, “Out of all the tests we’ve done, this one feels like we’re doing the most for the customer!” Before we continue moving forward, we would love some feedback from you about what you want to see in gluten-free offerings.

Here are a few questions we have for you:
• What specific gluten-free products would you like to see in our stores?
• Would you prefer to see it individually packaged or unpackaged?
• How would you like to learn we have gluten-free products? For example, would you like to see it on a sign or would you prefer the barista tell you?
• Where would you like to see gluten-free products in the store; in the pastry case or placed elsewhere?
• The ingredient costs of gluten-free products tend to be higher, so would you understand if we charged more for the gluten-free version?

We appreciate your feedback and are excited to continue moving gluten-free forward.
In regards to packaged food products, we currently offer a gluten-free Amaretti Cookie available on the retail shelves. We continue to explore what other fresh food and packaged food to offer at Starbucks. Thanks for sharing your ideas.
Starbucks

Testing

2009-01-06T10:00:00.007-05:00

"Gluten makes me sick"

Gluten intolerance is also a genetic disorder, so it runs in families. About 1 in 133 Americans have the condition, but that number may rise to 1 in 22 for those who have an immediate family member with gluten intolerance. Gluten Intolerance is currently 97% Undiagnosed, Imagine what these numbers would be if we had more awareness. You can also be Gluten Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitive (NCGS) ~15% of all people or 1 in 7 are gluten sensitive.

All "Gluten intolerance" is easily identified by an Elimination Diet. However many people turn to blood tests as a first investigation. Because the most common test for Gluten intolerance is still the old-fashioned Celiac test (blood tests and intestinal biopsy), most Gluten intolerant people return a 'negative' or inconclusive test. You can still be gluten sensitive. Does this mean they are not gluten sensitive? NO, regardless of the "label" you still need the same result a "gluten free diet" I believe "gluten" is a much bigger issue then mainstream medicine is aware of or will admit.

It is also important to note that although some people with "gluten tolerance" suffer severe symptoms, some suffer none at all. Why I personally believe if you have a family member with "gluten intolerance", it's important to have some type of testing/elimination diet done.

Testing

Elimination Diet
Elimination Diet is a tool for finding out which foods cause your symptoms.

Celiac panel

The blood test for celiac disease is looking for the following :

AGA (antigliadin)

IgAAGA (antigliadin)

IgGEMA (antiendomysial)

tTG (anti-tissue transglutaminase)

Total serum IgA

Genetics testing

Stool
The stool test is a specific test for gluten sensitivity. Because the antibodies are produced in the intestine, these tests are also extremely sensitive in detecting certain antibodies. These tests can be ordered by phone or Internet and done at home (you then mail the sample to the lab), and as such, are simple and non-invasive. The stool test can also be used to determine the presence of a genetic predisposition for celiac disease.

Saliva

Most saliva tests do not look for the specific celiac disease antibodies

(EMA and tTG), but do look at AGA (IgA and IgG).

They are therefore most helpful

in determining gluten sensitivity/intolerance, and not celiac disease.

ALCAT
The ALCAT Test differs from other food allergy or intolerance tests as it accurately and objectively measures leukocyte cellular reactivity in whole blood, which is a final common pathway of all mechanisms. The test utilizes electronic, state of the art, hematological instrumentation. ALCAT offer different test panel's most include "gluten" testing.

They also offer a "20 Food Finger-Stick Screen "

a simple non invasive testing method for gluten screening.

RAST

A RAST test (short for radioallergosorbent test) is a blood test used to determine to what substances a person is allergic. A RAST test, using a person's extracted blood, detects the amount of Ige that reacts specifically with suspected or known allergens.

Skin Test
An allergy skin test is used to identify the substances that are causing your allergy symptoms. It is often performed by applying an extract of an allergen to your skin, scratching or pricking the skin to allow exposure, and then evaluating the skin's reaction. It may also be done by injecting the allergen under the skin, or by applying it to a patch that is worn on the skin for a specified period of time.

Applied kinesiology

Applied kinesiology (AK) is a technique used to diagnose illness or choose treatment by testing muscles for strength and weakness. It's sometimes used to try and find out if a particular food or other substance weakens or makes the person stronger.

ELISA IgG Blood Test
If you have an intolerance of a certain food, your

body’s natural reaction may be to produce what is known as an IgG antibody against it.

Gingerbread House

2008-12-08T13:49:00.003-05:00

Recipe and directions on making a Gluten free Gingerbread house
About.com

Looking for a Gluten free gingerbread kit
Thanks to a heads up from Food Allergy Buzz, it looks like you can now purchase gluten free gingerbread houses from the Sensitive Baker! These gingerbread houses are also advertised as being casein free, but is NOT Vegan-friendly.

Here is the information provided by the Sensitive Baker team regarding their gluten free gingerbread houses

We make gluten-free gingerbread house kits (small, $25 + shipping), gluten-free, casein-free, soy-free, corn-free, and nut-free, but they’re not vegan. It’s a shame, since the cookie itself is vegan (also egg-free), but the frosting “glue” that holds it together NEEDS egg.

We do gingerbread PEOPLE that are vegan, and also offer a sugar-free version!
One of the best things about gingerbread is that it doesn’t require air-shipping in those big styrofoam boxes, so it can travel regular mail. Please order by December 12th to ensure delivery by x-mas.
Call (310) 815-1800 to order or visit The SensitiveBaker.com.

Gourmet Cupcake Maker

2008-11-19T11:58:00.019-05:00

GLuten free Cupcake Maker (Kids)

Read article from JAKKS Pacific Download PDF

We are thrilled that kids across America have been making, decorating and eating our delicious and award-winning Girl Gourmet cupcakes in all the yummiest and trendiest flavors," said Michael Rinzler, vice president of marketing, JAKKS Pacific.

"Kids and parents can also breathe easy when it comes to the ingredients for Girl Gourmet cupcakes which are gluten and wheat-free, trans-fat free, and made in a nut-free facility. Many children who suffer from Celiac and nut allergies will be able to participate in the art of cupcake making AND eating with all of their friends."

Amazon Girl Gourmet Cupcake Maker

Link Gourmet Cupcake Maker

Kids will love to make their own

yummy—gluten- and wheat-free cupcakes

with this easy-to-use set.

Just pop in the microwave for 30 seconds, no baking involved!

Gluten Free Thanksgiving

2008-11-16T17:43:00.002-05:00

Suite 101 recently published a great post explaining
how to have a gluten free Thanksgiving.

Click here to read their post!

New items

2008-10-26T09:13:00.009-04:00

Two new (for us) Gluten free

weekend finds from our mainstream grocery store

Rice Rusks

Gluten free baby Mum-Mum's

Ian's Wheat Free And Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Buttons

You've never had cookies like Ians Wheat Free/Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Buttons before! These bitty buttons are the perfect addition to your lunch box or soccer bag and come in individual bags that are all your own and its a good thing because you wont want to share! Plus, they are made without wheat or gluten so even kids with food allergies can enjoy them! You'll love the taste and your mom will love the all-natural ingredients!

Gluten-free Thanksgiving

2008-10-20T15:23:00.009-04:00

Thanksgiving

Our First 100% Gluten-free Thanksgiving
Kitchens can get messy and crowded during the holidays, with serving spoons being switched, crumbs falling and flour flying. With guests arriving who are not completely
clear on what "gluten-free" means or the seriousness of
cross-contamination.
Let's be honest ALOT of people are not aware of what
"Gluten Free" means, so this year I will host my first GLUTEN FREE Thanksgiving.

If guests ask to bring something I'm going to suggest

Centerpiece/flowers
Drinks
Wine
To help clean- up after dinner

Many "traditional" Thanksgiving foods are already gluten-free
*Mashed potatoes
*Sweet Potatoes (check the marshmallows if you use them!)
*Cranberries
*Glazed Carrots
*corn
*Peas
*mixed vegetables
*Tossed Salad w/ choice of gluten-free dressings

Dishes that Require Some Altering
Some recipes require some changes to become gluten-free

*Turkey- Some turkeys are injected with fillers that could potentially contain gluten. That means you need to check the ingredients even when buying a fresh or frozen whole turkey.
If you are using a convenient "oven bag" to cook your turkey, be sure not to add the flour to coat the inside of the bag. Use a gluten-free flour instead.

*Stuffing
I'm still researching "stuffing" and haven't decided on how I will make mine yet. However here are a few recipes

Gluten Free Rice Stuffing
Source: CDKitchen
Gluten Free Cornbread Stuffing Recipe
Source: celiec-disease.com
Nutty Rice Stuffing
Source: Gluten Free/Casein Free Recipes

* Gravy

This was always one of Grandpa Gene's specialties. Hopefully with his help and a few changes I can make it gluten free

Here are a few recipes

Turkey Gravy
Source: In the Kitchen
Lazy Man's Gravy
Source: RecipieZaar

*Apple pie

I believe I will use this first recipe.
We really enjoyBob's Red Mill products.

Gluten Free Apple Pie With Crumble Topping
Source: RecipieZaar
Gluten-Free Pie Crust Recipe
Source: About.com

*Pumpkin pie

Pumpkin Pie Gluten Free Recipe
Source: Gluten free Recipes

*Rolls

Still researching, we enjoy Bob's Red Mill products so I might use one of the recipe's on his site

Gluten-Free rolls
Source: Book of Yum
Chebe Gluten-Free Cheese Bread Rolls PREMADE
1-2-3 Gluten-Free Rolls Mix Mix
Source: The Gluten free Mall

Thinking I will order a few treats from Good Eatz as well to complete our Gluten free Thanksgiving.

BeFreeForMe!

2008-10-20T08:33:00.001-04:00

Join BeFreeForMe.com

Having a food allergy or celiac disease can be an extraordinary challenge. The breezy days of quickly planning a menu of “whatever” are over. Speedy trips to the grocery store turn into a quick-study of every product’s nutritional label. Grocery bills can increase threefold – and even then you end up being disappointed in the items purchased. And lastly, eating out at a restaurant as a special treat can quickly turn into more trouble that it's worth.

BeFreeForMe.com is the first and only web site to offer coupons, samples and sharing to gluten and food allergy-free consumers.

Gluten Free - Rolled Sugar Cookies

2008-10-03T16:37:00.004-04:00

Ingredients:
1-1/2 cups white rice flour
1/2 cup butter or margarine (cold)
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
One egg (cold)
1-1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum
1/2 teaspoon GF vanilla, lemon, or almond flavoring
1/8 teaspoon salt

Directions:
Combine the rice flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, xanthan gum and salt.
Mix well.
Cut in the butter or margarine until the mixture is in crumbs the size of peas.

In a small bowl beat the sugar, egg, and vanilla
(or other flavoring) together.

Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until the dough pulls away from the sides.
Form the dough into a flat ball shape and refrigerate for one hour.

Dust some freezer paper (not wax paper) with GF flour or confectioners sugar. Put the dough on the freezer paper and sprinkle with flour or confectioner's sugar. Roll the dough to 1/4 inch thick and cut out shapes as desired.

Bake at 350-degrees for 12 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

Recipe makes about 20 cookies.

Gluten Free donuts

2008-09-26T07:51:00.003-04:00

Donuts in an oil fryer

Pamela's Products

4-1/4 cups Pamela's Baking & Pancake Mix, plus some for dough handling
1/4 cup melted butter
2/3 cup milk or buttermilk (optional: add 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice to milk)
2 eggs
1 cup white or brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Mix all ingredients together. Dust counter with additional Pamela's Baking & Pancake Mix, scoop out about 1/3 cup dough at a time. Coat top and bottom with Pamela's Baking & Pancake Mix. With thumb, pierce center of dough and create doughnut shape. Preheat oil in fryer to 365° to 375° and carefully lower doughnut into oil. Fry for approximately one minute on each side.

Variation for use with a donut maker:

Use only 2-3/4 cups Pamela's Baking & Pancake Mix, and a total of 1 cup milk or buttermilk. This recipe needs a kitchen donut maker machine. the batter is like a thick pancake batter. Mix all ingredients together and bake in doughnut machine according to machine directions.

Chocolate Glaze for Donuts

1 ounce melted unsweetened chocolate
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2-1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 to 3 tablespoons milk

Mix all ingredients together, adding milk slowly until correct consistency for glazing. Frost cooled donuts. Sprinkle with candies, coconut, chopped nuts, etc.

Halloween

2008-09-11T12:57:00.011-04:00

September is here

October and Halloween are quickly approaching...........

We will go trick or treating all over the neighborhood to get all the candy "goodies." Once we get home I will go through the bag of candy and find a few gluten free goodies. We then will leave the rest of the candy by the front door for the Great Pumpkin to take. The Great pumpkin then will leave small items for the kids (coloring books, GF crayon, etc.) This way my younger children can continue to go trick or treating. They really don't need all that sugary treats anyway. The Great Pumpkin will donate the treats. We all will remain safe and happy.

List

Gluten-Free Candy, as of September 2008
Please note: it is always a good idea to check with the manufacturers to make sure that their manufacturing process or their ingredients have not changed since the information was obtained.

Grains are the tricky part!

2008-09-11T08:19:00.002-04:00

When it comes to gluten, grains are the tricky part. You already know that bread, flour, pasta, and other products made from wheat, barley, rye, and oats are off limits.

You can, however, eat starchy goodies made from the following grains and flours

Almond flour
Amaranth
Arrowroot
Bean flour
Besan
Brown rice
Brown rice flour
Buckwheat
Cassava
Corn flour
Corn meal
Corn starch
Cottonseed
Dal
Flaxseed
Job’s tears
Manioc
Millet
Milo
Pea flour
Polenta
Potato flour
Quinoa
Rice
Rice flour
Sago
Soy flour
Tapioca flour
Taro flour
Tef
Yucca

Gluten FREE Pizza crust

2008-09-09T12:19:00.001-04:00

Homemade Wonderful Pizza Crust

Using Gluten Free Homemade Wonderful Bread Mix makes this pizza crust easy to prepare.

INGREDIENTS:
1 pkg Gluten Free Homemade Wonderful Bread Mix
2 Tb Olive Oil
1-1/2 cups Water
2 Eggs*
In a large bowl, combine water and yeast.

Let stand 5 minutes.

Add eggs and oil to mixture and blend briefly.

Add in bread mix and mix about 1 minute.

Split dough in half and place on 2 greased pizza pans.

Using wet hands, spread out dough to cover the full pizza pan.

Cover with favorite sauce and toppings.

Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.

*Eggless option: Combine 2 Tb. Flaxseed Meal + 6 Tb. Water; let stand one minute. Add to recipe as you would the eggs.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Servings Size: 1 Pizza Slice (58g)Calories 120, Calories from Fat 25, Total Fat 3g, Saturated Fat 0g, Cholesterol 25mg, Sodium 190mg, Total Carbohydrate 22g, Dietary Fiber 3g, Sugars 2g and Protein 3g.

Gluten Free Safety Buttons

2008-08-11T13:36:00.003-04:00

Gluten Free Safety Awareness Button...

Great For Lunch bags and backpacks

Awareness Buttons

Dining out

2008-08-06T09:12:00.005-04:00

Dining out can certainly be challenging for people who must follow a gluten-free diet. But it's not impossible here is a list of some restaurants/fast food chains that offer some gluten free options.
Restaurants
Charlie Browns
Chili's
Uno's

Fast Food

Stromboli

2008-08-04T09:56:00.005-04:00

Use Gluten-Free Pantry French Bread mix and roll with NO rising.
Roll out a length of Saran Wrap and spray with Pam.

Roll out bread mix to 10 x 16 with another layer of Saran Wrap on top.

Remove top layer of Saran Wrap and put on pizza sauce (Contadina) to within 1" of edge.
3/4 cup Ricotta cheese (if cheese is moist, squeeze it out)
Pepperoni – Gluten-Free (Echrich or whatever)
1 cup cooked Bob Evans sausage (about 1/2 pound)
1 can mushrooms
1-1/2 cups mozzarella cheese
Basil, oregano, garlic powder
Roll up. Pick up with Saran Wrap under and over to slip and put on a greased cookie sheet. Oil top with olive oil. Bake 375º for 20 to 25 min.

Peanut Butter Cookies

2008-07-30T19:51:00.001-04:00

1 egg
1 cup sugar
1 cup peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla (optional)

Mix all ingredients together. Place drops of dough on cookie sheet (size is up to you). Use a fork to make crisscross patterns (this is easy to do without sticking if you will keep your fork in a glass of ice water when not using it). Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 12 minutes. Watch them, so you will know when it’s best to take them out. When they start to brown, and just barely give off a smell of burning peanut butter, then they are done. Let cool partially on cookie sheet, then twist to remove, and put on cooling rack.

Additions:
Chocolate chips go great in these cookies, without having to change anything else. You can also use 1/2 chunky and 1/2 creamy peanut butter.

Snacks

2008-07-28T15:14:00.006-04:00

Gluten free snack ideas

Tortilla chips with or w/o dip
Reg. potato chips — Lays Stax have all g.f. ingredients
Any fruit fruit
Any fresh vegetable
Popcorn
Dried fruit
Popsicles
Homemade popsicles
Trail mix made with Gorilla Munch and whatever else you have on hand (usually dried fruit and choc. chips)

Pickles
Peanuts
Rice crispy treats made w/ g.f. rice crispies.
Trio bars, or other treats from Mrs. May’s.
Hard-Boiled Egg
Smoothies
Pepperoni- Hormel makes a gluten-free pepperoni
Toasted Pumpkin Seeds or Roasted Sunflower Seeds
Cold Cereal- Envirokidz Peanut Butter Panda Puffs, Rice Chex
Corn Tortilla- with GF Peanut Butter or chesse
Gluten-Free Cakes, Cookies and Sweet Biscuits
Gluten-free candies
Gluten-free yogurt
Lara Bars or EnviroKidz Organic Crispy Rice Bars
Gluten free ice cream
Gluten-free rice pudding or tapioca pudding
Pudding
Jello

HealthDay News

2008-07-24T11:04:00.000-04:00

Intestinal Gluten Receptor Is Gateway for Celiac Disease
Finding could offer new treatments for other autoimmune disorders, study says

THURSDAY, July 24 (HealthDay News) -- Researchers believe they have finally answered a basic question about the cause of celiac disease -- where in the body does the wheat protein gluten enter one's system?

A study published in the July issue of Gastroenterology identifies the CXCR3 receptor in the intestine as a gluten gateway. When people with celiac disease eat gluten, the protein triggers their immune system to attack the body, causing a wide range of serious health problems.

"This is a scientific question that had never been answered before," Dr. Alessio Fasano, medical director of the Center for Celiac Research at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, said in an university news release. "It is not only significant in the basic science of autoimmune disorders such as celiac disease, but in therapeutic approaches for the future. This opens a new scientific paradigm for the study of immunity."

The research team found that gliadin, the part of gluten that causes the most trouble for those with celiac disease, binds to the CXCR3 receptor. This results in the release of zonulin, a human protein that lowers the intestinal barrier to make it more permeable. While this effect is temporary in most people, the barrier stays down for long periods of time in people with celiac disease, causing disruption in the body's system.

The finding may help in research on the cause and treatment for other autoimmune diseases, Fasano said. People with type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis may experience a similar condition in which offending antigens enter the body through this gateway in the intestines.

"For the first time, we have evidence of how the foreign antigen gains access to the body, causing the autoimmune response," said Fasano, who is also a pediatric gastroenterologist at the University of Maryland Medical Center. "Further study is needed, but this could allow us to intervene before the zonulin is either released or activated, preventing the immune response altogether."

More information

The American Academy of Family Physicians has more about celiac disease.

Pamela's Products

2008-07-15T18:49:00.002-04:00

Pamela's Products

Pancake Mix

Pamela's Products have easy-to-use mix's that create light and fluffy pancakes and waffles, as well as delicious breads, cakes and muffins … also, a great substitute for flour.

INGREDIENTS: Brown Rice Flour, White Rice Flour, Cultured Buttermilk, Natural Almond Meal (may appear as brown flecks), Tapioca Starch, Sweet Rice Flour, Potato Starch, Grainless & Aluminum Free Baking Powder (Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Potato Starch), Baking Soda, Sea Salt, Xanthan Gum.

Gluten Free School Supplies

2008-07-14T17:40:00.005-04:00

Children may also ingest gluten from art supplies.

There are several sites that have this information so I will compile it for you and list the sites.

From TACA Now

Paints -- six colors (Crayola, Palmer, or Lakeshore brand)
Crayola
Washable Markers (large and small sizes)
Crayola First Crayons or regular crayons (two pkg.)
Crayola Model Magic in several colors (Do not use Playdough or Crayola Dough or any substitutes unless sent from home! Model Magic dries out after several uses--include baggies)
Crayola brand chalk in white and colors
Elmer's or Ross Brand Liquid Glue (old fashioned paste contains wheat)
Elmer's or Ross Brand Glue Sticks (2)
Scotch brand clear tape, 1 roll
Craft supplies (small baggies filled these items):
Corn elbows, corn rotelli, rice, black-eyed peas, lentils, rice spaghetti, colored rice or lentil noodles--remember, your child cannot use regular pasta for crafts or in a sensory bin

From the GFCF Website:

Palmer Paint Products, Inc. (Can be found in Walmart, Michaels, also S&S World Wide Arts catalogue)

Prism Brand Acrylic Glow in the Dark
Prism Regular Acrylics
Prism Model Paints
Prism Pearls
Palmer Nature' Hues
Palmer Liquid Tempera (contains corn starch)
Palmer Washable Liquid Tempura
Palmer Face Paint
Palmer Glitter Paint

Crayola
(Binney & Smith, Inc.) 1-800-272-9653 www.crayola.com/index.cfm

Palmer Dry Tempura (contains corn starch)
Washable Markers
Model Magic
Markers
Chalk
Silly Putty
Jumping Colors
Mess free Color Wonder
3 D Markers
Oil Pastels
Powder Paint
Water Soluble Oil Pastels
Note: NO Crayola dough it contains Gluten!

Elmer's Washable Glue is also GF
www.elmers.com 1-888-435-6377
School Supplies/Glue - Conros Corporation
Canada 1-800-387-5275
www.conros.com/RossAdhes-KangGlu.html
Ross White Glue
Ross Glue Sticks
Ross School Glue

I'm also going to make sure I send products like these listed below;

Unpowdered plastic gloves or Liquid Glove (if needed for other activities--soap play, cooking, etc.)
Colored page reinforcers or pony beads (there are no GFCF Cheerios, so for crafts/activities that involve gluing cheerios, use colored page reinforcers, Gorilla Munch cereal, or plastic pony beads)
Baggies of Gorilla Munch (Kix-like GF corn cereal)
Colgate Shaving Cream (for OT activities); do not use Nickelodeon Floam, Goop, etc.
Silly Putty
by Crayola is GF (for OT activities)
Palmer face paints or Hello Kitty products can be used for makeup for dress-up activities/plays
Ivory soap, Johnson and Johnson Baby Soap, shampoo, and lotion are GFCF; avoid other lotions used in physical therapy unless you know they are GFCF
Toothettes and lemon-flavored cottonball sticks used by speech therapists are GFCF

A Family Guide- Book

2008-07-13T19:34:00.002-04:00

Kids with Celiac Disease

Kids with Celiac Disease:

A Family Guide to Raising Happy, Healthy,

Gluten-Free Children

This is the first practical guide for the families of children and teenagers with celiac disease, a chronic, life-long digestive disorder. As many as one out of 150 to 250 Americans is born with this genetic autoimmune condition, which is characterized by intolerance of gluten--a substance in wheat, oats, barley, malt, and other food additives--and often goes undiagnosed. In a supportive conversational style, Danna Korn shows that it's possible for kids with celiac disease and their families to lead happy and healthy lives.

Parents find advice on how to deal with the diagnosis, cope with the emotional turmoil, and help their child develop a positive and constructive attitude. Especially important is the guidance on menu planning, grocery shopping, strategies for proper food preparation, and deciding whether or not the entire family should be gluten-free. There's even a section on junk food!

What about the child who has difficulty sticking with the prescribed diet? Parents find tips on conditioning behavior and how and when to give kids some control over what they eat. Also covered is the challenge of controlling meals outside of the home--at birthday parties, restaurants, camp, and on vacation. There's also information about how federal regulations and tax laws apply to children with celiac disease.

As the only comprehensive book of its kind, Kids with Celiac Disease will be the bible for the thousands of families coping with this condition. Physicians and nutritionists too, will want to refer new families to this complete resource.

Easy Goldfish-type Crackers - Gluten Free

2008-07-08T16:32:00.000-04:00

2 slices American cheese (NOT cheese food)
1/2 t salt
1/8 t chili powder
1/8 t garlic powder

Preheat oven to 400*

Cut each cheese slice into 16 small squares. Separate pieces and put in a small bowl. Add seasonings and toss to coat. Arrange on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each cracker. Bake 400* for 7 to 7 1/2 minutes until well-browned and crispy. If undercooked, they will be soggy, so don't be afraid to check them and put them back in the oven for a bit longer if needed.

Cool the crackers completely and store in an airtight container on the counter for a few days.

Gluten Friendly Products

2008-06-30T13:52:00.006-04:00

I was so excited to find this site AllergyFriendlyProducts

They have a few Gluten Friendly Products , perfect for Abbi or others with Gluten intolerance

Bread

Why not make soft and tasty sandwich bread, as you need it

A slice or two at a time?

Simply mix the powder with water, pour equal amounts into the bread-shaped mold trays, and microwave each slice for 45-50 seconds.
This product does not contain any gluten, wheat, egg, soy, fish, shellfish, peanuts, or tree nuts, and is also trans fat-free.

Gluten Free Pizza Crust

Convenient - Just add water and bake in your Microwave for about 1 minute!

Muddy Buddies

2008-06-28T19:46:00.015-04:00

Prep Time:15 min

Start to Finish:15 min

Makes:18 servings (1/2 cup each)

Ingredients:

9	cups Rice Chex® cereal (gluten free)
1	cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2	cup peanut butter
1/4	cup butter or margarine
1	teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2	cups powdered sugar

Preparation Directions:

1. Into large bowl, measure cereal; set aside.

2. In 1-quart microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter uncovered on High 1 minute; stir. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag.

3.Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until well coated. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.

Sources Of Hidden Gluten

2008-06-27T19:14:00.001-04:00

With Abbi's recent test results we had to look at the bigger picture. Hidden Gluten. Let’s examine the house first. Do you toast your gluten-free bread in the same toaster that is used for wheat-based bread? Do you use a wood cutting boards, gluten may become embedded in them—use a marble cutting board instead. Beware of knives. At breakfast, do the gluten-consuming members of your family spread peanut butter on their toast, and then double-dip to get a little more peanut butter out of the jar? When they double-dip, some of their wheat crumbs may be getting into the jar and will eventually contaminate the dollop you retrieve from the jar If so, get a peanut butter jar just for the gluten free members of your family. Let's look at Non-food items, that pose gluten challenges. The glue used on lickable envelopes and stamps often contains gluten. Self-stick labels and stickers may contain gluten. Do you use latex or rubber gloves to wash dishes? These are often dusted with wheat or oat flour. You should also check with your doctor, dentist, request that they use unpowdered gloves. Gluten also hides in art supplies, such as paints, clay, play dough, and glue. It is also present in many personal items such as lipstick, lip balm, sunscreen, shampoos, soaps, cosmetics, skin lotions, toothpaste, and mouthwash. Household products such as cleaning solutions, detergents, even bars of soap may contain gluten. Check medications, frequently they contain gluten. Pills may be dusted with flour during manufacturing and capsules may have the gluten present in the oil inside. Reading labels takes practice. Always read labels, even if its something you purchased in the past, manufactures could change the ingredients.

Play Doh

2008-06-27T14:32:00.001-04:00

We also have to watch for hidden sources of gluten Did you know Play Doh, the popular children's modeling compound, contains gluten, which makes it unsafe for children with celiac disease/ gluten intolerance. Here is a recipe for gluten-free play dough, courtesy of the Celiac Sprue Association.

If you'd rather buy ready-made gluten-free play dough, two popular brands are Aroma Dough and Colorations. Colorations is sold by Discount School Supply.

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup rice flour
1/2 cup corn starch
1/2 cup salt
2 tsp cream of tarter
1 cup water
1 tsp cooking oil
Food coloring, if desired

PREPARATION:

Mix ingredients. Cook and stir on low heat for 3 minutes or until mixture forms a ball. Cool completely before storing in a sealable plastic bag.