Xanthan gum is a common ingredient in many gluten-free foods we've come to rely on. The problem is that a few people may develop a sensitivity or allergy to xanthan. Unfortunately, their symptoms can be eerily similar to those of classic celiac disease - bloating, discomfort, diarrhea and more. If you're still symptomatic on a strict gluten-free diet, it is a good idea to rule out xanthan sensitivity.

When my husband and I chose to bring in a gluten-free exchange student, Ida, for this school year, we thought we were bringing in a good role model for my 9 year-old daughter with celiac disease. But so far we've learned much more about the differences in gluten-free culture between Norway and the United States! Ida found some big changes here that she would have to get used to.

A look at the growing trend towards the gluten-free diet, and how it may help or hurt the gluten sensitive community.

Equality.  That’s all any parent wants for his or her child.  In this case I’m talking about food at school.  Are you completely frustrated that you can’t get a gluten-free lunch for your child at school?   According to a recent survey by the American Celiac Disease Alliance, many parents of celiac children may feel the same way.

Anyone with confirmed gluten sensitivity knows what a web of conflicting research and medical opinions he or she must wade through in order to get diagnosed. Sadly, it is a rare thing for a patient to have to consult less than a handful of doctors, and consider many various ailments before hearing the life-altering statement: You have celiac disease.

Relief & Recovery from Gluten Exposure, including my original recipe for the "Tummy Rescue Smoothie"

Summarizes the author's personal struggles with a chronic, painful bladder disease, and her surprising solution for recovery: a strict, gluten-free diet, for life!

A personal narrative about being diagnosed with celiac disease.

Quick how-to's about making a gluten-free emergency kit for you or your family. Until gluten-free dining becomes more commonplace, you do need to plan for unusual occurrences. Even with planning, there is no guarantee that you will be able to grab your food kit. If you can, it will be a great comfort in many different situations. It is my most sincere wish that you never have to use your emergency kit.

Students embarking on the college path often ride a roller coaster between sheer unadulterated excitement and deep-in-the-stomach dread of meeting new people and challenges. For the gluten free college student, a whole world of eating choices will await them in all sorts of different social situations. It is a new cornucopia of responsible choice.