Thinking Whether To Go Grain Free?

[adambryant]

Just a few questions. Why do people go grain free and can people with celiac not tolerate them? I know that when I eat gluten free bread and pasta I feel very bloated, compared to potatoes for example.I know I can't tolerate rice so could it be the grains? Should I go grain free? Anyone have any grain free options?

[Skysmom03]

No people with celiac can have certain grains. The protein in the grain sets off an autoimmune reaction which can make them very sick. Long term exposure can even lead to different types of cancer and other diseases and possible even death. If you do go grain free you need to make sure you take a good vitamin to make up for vitamins lost from not eating grains.

[AVR1962]

After over a year off wheat I was still having trouble with inflammation....it was like my body was on fire and I never knew what was going to happen next....it was like my body was still being attacked by something.....so I went completely grain and sugar free. It made a huge huge difference for me. I found when I was completely grain free though I would after a good length of time have to almost binge to get my carbs or I would find myself very tired. Now I allow 1/2 cup grain from time to day, not even every day. I had to find the right balance for me. I do allow some sugar but again very little. I went to juicing, replacing one meal a day with freshly juiced veggies with some fruit and that has helped my energy levels a great deal. So I think it depends on each person and what they are dealing with as to whether grain free is good for you. Grains are important if they are not causing the body issues.

[GottaSki]

For me - removing all grains, dairy, legumes,, nightshades and histamines was essential - my digestive system was destroyed by decades of undiagnosed Celiac Disease.

We are all different - my nutrient levels are all better than ever without these foods. I am actually absorbing vitamins and minerals from mmy food and no longer need supplementation.

IF and this is a big IF - you are not improving after months gluten-free or as in my case are getting worse with strict removal of gluten - I strongly encourage you to look to other high lectin foods.

Hang in there.

[adambryant]

Thankyou. Do celiacs who go grain free generally go back to grains and are able to tolerate them in the future? And if so how long? I just can tell I feel different after some foods, not just me thinking it!

[Skysmom03]

No, Celiacs must follow a Gluten free diet for life. Even if they eat it and feel 'fine', they are still damaging their digestive systems. Gluten is toxic to a celiac!

[mushroom]

No, Celiacs must follow a Gluten free diet for life. Even if they eat it and feel 'fine', they are still damaging their digestive systems. Gluten is toxic to a celiac!

I believe Adam was referring to alternate grains, not gluten.

[adambryant]

Yeah I meant grain equivalents, or for example gluten free bread/pasta..

[GottaSki]

Hi Adam-

For me - I have been grain free for over a year - had major setback during that time - am doing much better this past month so I plan to hold firm on my current diet for at least six more months then I will trial my removed foods VERY slowly - again some can add things back more quickly.