From My Celiac Support Group

[darlindeb25]

I just received this email from Suffolk County Celiacs, my support group here. I thought that some of the info would be of interest to all of you:

Cathy Ficalora, M.S., R.D., C.D.N. was our guest speaker. Cathy is a Registered Dietician who herself has celiac and was diagnosed a little over a year ago. Cathy can be contacted at 631-422-2071 for an appointment.

Cathy spoke about the importance of follow up visits with a GI doctor who is knowledgeable with regard to celiac. She stressed the necessity of keeping our immune systems strong and that many celiacs are vitamin deficient, a deficiency usually not tested for by doctors. Cathy then discussed the new labeling law and, in particular, products which might cause confusion. For instance, although glucose syrup is safe, it may be derived from wheat which would then appear on the label leading us to believe we cannot have the product when, in fact, we can.

Cathy also brought up the point that there is a protein in oats that mimics gluten and tricks the immune system. Some people react, some don’t.

She also informed us that blue cheese and gorgonzola are now considered safe per Dr. Fasano of the University of Maryland.

A discussion regarding Sushi followed. It was reiterated that fish roe generally contains wheat. Do NOT eat any sushi with fake crab, made with soy sauce or crunchies. Ask for plain fish with rice & seaweed to be safe.

Once again we revisited alcohol. Any distilled spirit is safe. Be wary of alcohol mixed with other ingredients after distillation.

Cathy strongly recommended a minimum of 30 grams of fiber per day from fruits & vegetables. Enjoy a variety of peas, berries, prunes, flax seed, nuts & beans.

It was also stated that most hard candy is safe.

Deb

[Carriefaith]

Thanks for the information

Cathy also brought up the point that there is a protein in oats that mimics gluten and tricks the immune system. Some people react, some don’t.

That makes sense to me now. All those studies done with pure/uncontaminated oats where some people have intestinal damage and others don't. That's very interesting...

[jerseyangel]

Deb--Thanks for the info.