Am I Hurting Myself?

[GFinRowlett]

I've been gluten-free since I was diagnosed with Celiac in October 2010. My reactions to accidental contamination is very minimal now. Am I doing damage even if I have little to no reaction?

[Lisa]

I've been gluten-free since I was diagnosed with Celiac in October 2010. My reactions to accidental contamination is very minimal now. Am I doing damage even if I have little to no reaction?

Studies indicate that most people with Celiac Disease can tolerate 20 parts per million of gluten without damage. Some are more sensitive. And just because you have a mild symptoms, there is no indication that the autoimmune response will be mild. There are those among us who have no symptoms and have had severe damage.

I don't cheat intentionally, because I feel I get enough potential cross contamination/contact to fulfill my 20ppm.

OH...excuse my manners. WELCOME! You have found a great place.

[squirmingitch]

YES! You are doing damage. Your reaction is no indicator of the damage being done. You need to be vigilant --- very vigilant! This is serious business & every time you get glutened or cc'd then you risk your health -- now & in the future.

I would NEVER say to myself that it's okay for me to get cc'd to the point of 20ppm --- NEVER! That is for testing purposes of gluten free food & does not mean that we can gauge how much cc equals 20ppm.

[Lisa]

I would NEVER say to myself that it's okay for me to get cc'd to the point of 20ppm --- NEVER! That is for testing purposes of gluten free food & does not mean that we can gauge how much cc equals 20ppm.

Squirmingitch, I hope you did not misinterpret what I said. I am as careful as most, but I also know I live an environment where gluten is everywhere. Zero gluten, although wishful, is a total improbability in the world we live in. Cross contamination is inevitable. I suspect that most of us consume far more gluten than we realize, even the best among us.

Am I suggesting that everyone should be allowed one crumb of gluten per day. No, I don't think so.

[GFinRowlett]

Thanks for both replies and thanks for the Welcome!

I don't cheat and I'm very diligent about cc. Being sick, losing weight and "living" in the toilet is still very fresh in my memory. But, I know I've been glutened and I know I don't have the severe reactions like I did.

I think I need to find a knowledgable doctor I can talk to.

[Lisa]

Thanks for both replies and thanks for the Welcome!

I don't cheat and I'm very diligent about cc. Being sick, losing weight and "living" in the toilet is still very fresh in my memory. But, I know I've been glutened and I know I don't have the severe reactions like I did.

I think I need to find a knowledgable doctor I can talk to.

This place is probably the best resource you can find. I would encourage you to take a walk around.

You won't find better information or support. And if you find a knowledgeable doctor, you are a fortunate one.

Give us a go.

[squirmingitch]

I agree that this is quite possibly THE best place for info., support & help. The people on this board have been through it all. AND everyone is quite helpful & friendly.

I'm glad to know you're being very diligent. And I'll add my welcome also. Happy to have you aboard!

Hey, we even allow venting here.