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Showing results for tags 'accidental ingestion'.
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Ten Things to Try if You Accidentally Eat Gluten
Jefferson Adams posted an article in Additional Concerns
Celiac.com 06/22/2023 - Living with celiac disease requires strict adherence to a gluten-free diet to prevent uncomfortable symptoms and long-term complications. However, accidental gluten ingestion can occur, causing distress and discomfort for those with celiac disease. When that happens, there are steps you can take to alleviate symptoms and support your recovery. This article combines the best home remedies for accidental gluten ingestion, as submitted by members of our forum, and from comments by readers of our articles. Accidental gluten ingestion can lead to a range of symptoms in individuals with celiac disease such as upset stomach, inflammation, diarrhea, bloating, and skin rash. Recognizing the consequences of gluten exposure is essential for implementing effective management strategies. Officially, beyond simply waiting it out, there is no clinically accepted treatment for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity who accidentally eat gluten. However, there are things that many people claim will reduce the suffering and promote healing when this happens. So what works? Or, what do people say works for them? The remedies listed below are not ranked in any particular order of importance or efficacy. This list is not intended to be authoritative or comprehensive. Nor is it intended as medical advice, or as a substitute for medical advice. As with any health remedy, do your research and make the choices that are right for you. Immediate Steps to Alleviate Symptoms Taking immediate action is crucial to minimize the impact of gluten exposure. Hydration, rest, and the application of heat can help alleviate symptoms like stomach pain and cramping. Avoiding additional irritants in the diet is also important. Fasting Fasting—Studies indicate that fasting for a couple of days can help to reset the immune system, which might be beneficial for those suffering from an adverse gluten reaction. Be sure to check with a doctor before fasting, just to be safe. Return to a Strict Gluten-Free Diet Recommitting to a strict gluten-free diet immediately after accidental exposure is paramount. Emphasize naturally gluten-free foods and avoid processed or spicy foods that may further irritate the digestive system. Digestive Enzymes for Bloating Relief Digestive enzyme supplements, such as GliadinX, Eater's Digest and Gluten Defense, can provide relief from bloating. These enzymes are known to assist in the digestion of gluten and may help alleviate symptoms, especially when exposed to small amounts of gluten. Herbal Remedies and Medications Herbal remedies like green tea, peppermint tea and echinacea have been reported to offer soothing effects for digestive discomfort. Additionally, antihistamines such as Benadryl, Claritin, or Zyrtec may provide relief for some individuals. Marshmallow root is known for its potential to soothe stomach and gas pain. Probiotics for Gut Health Incorporating probiotics into a general gut maintenance program can be beneficial both before and after accidental gluten exposure. Probiotics help promote a healthy gut microbiome and may aid in reducing symptoms. Nutrient-Rich Broth for Gut Healing Nutrient-rich broths, such as beef, chicken, or fish broth, contribute to gut healing and provide essential nutrition. Incorporating these broths into the diet can support recovery after gluten exposure. Long-Term Strategies for Intestinal Health Rebuilding intestinal health is crucial for managing celiac disease. Implementing an anti-inflammatory diet, including supplements such as L-Glutamine, coconut oil, fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, D, and K), calcium, magnesium, B-vitamins, essential fatty acids, and probiotics, can aid in the healing process. Personalized Approach and Seeking Medical Advice A personalized approach to managing accidental gluten ingestion is important. It is advisable to seek medical advice and consult healthcare professionals, such as dietitians, to develop tailored strategies and receive personalized guidance based on individual needs. Coping with Emotional Challenges Managing accidental gluten ingestion involves addressing not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional challenges that may arise. Prioritizing self-care, seeking support from loved ones or support groups, and engaging in activities that promote overall well-being are essential for navigating the emotional aspects of living with celiac disease. Tummy Rescue Smoothie 1 cup hot freshly brewed nettle leaf tea (anti-histamine, anti-spasmodic) ¼ cup Santa-Cruz pear juice (flavoring/sweetener - pears are the least allergenic of fruits) ¼-½ teaspoon whole fennel seed (reduces gas & bloating) 2 Tablespoons slippery elm powder (healing & soothing to mucous membranes and the gut) 1 Tablespoon flax seed oil (soothing, anti-inflammatory) ¼ - ½ cup rice milk (hypoallergenic, use to thin to desired consistency) Directions: Purée in blender until smooth, and slightly thickened. It is most soothing when consumed while still warm from the hot tea. This smoothie is best consumed in small sips over an hour or so. Magnesium also helps with pain and relaxes muscle spasms, so taking a little extra magnesium may be of benefit. For severe symptoms, drink the smoothie while reclining in bed, with a warm castor oil pack over the abdomen, covered by a heating pad set on low. Do not leave the pack in place for more than an hour. Conclusion Accidental gluten ingestion can be distressing for individuals with celiac disease. While there is no clinically accepted treatment for gluten ingestion, there are practical steps to manage symptoms and support recovery. By implementing strategies such as immediate symptom relief, adherence to a strict gluten-free diet, digestive enzymes, herbal remedies, probiotics, nutrient-rich broth, and long-term gut healing strategies, individuals with celiac disease can minimize the impact of accidental gluten exposure and promote their overall well-being. Living with celiac disease requires vigilance and careful attention to one's diet. Accidental gluten ingestion may happen despite best efforts, but there are steps that can be taken to alleviate symptoms and support recovery. By following these guidelines and seeking appropriate medical advice, individuals with celiac disease can navigate the challenges of accidental gluten exposure with greater ease and maintain their overall health and well-being. If you have any thoughts or insights on how best to treat accidental gluten ingestion for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, please share them in our comments section below.- 58 comments
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- accidental gluten exposure
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I’m worried I may have done some damage. I don’t know if I have celiac but I definitely have a corn intolerance. Every time I ate corn tortillas or corn chips etc. I would have bad bloating and gas and stomach discomfort. I am about 9 weeks pregnant and I accidentally ate something that had corn starch in the ingredients. I had terrible bloating and major gas and stomach ache for a few hours. I threw up and started to feel better but I’m worried that I may have cause some damage to my baby and might possibly have a miscarriage. I’m pretty new to all of this and need some information. Please help!
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- accidental ingestion
- miscarriage
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All, I am new to this group. I am hoping that I might be able to gain insight from your experience. I was officially diagnosed (blood markers and endoscopy) with celiac disease almost two years ago. Upon diagnosis, I immediately began to make changes in my diet. I was able to cook tasty meals that I was used to with substitutions. Although I am usually able to find a gluten-free meal in restaurants, it is often tasteless and expensive. Worse than that, I have been poisoned several times while traveling or having dinner at a friend's house..... and especially at church potlucks. I will often pack my own food, but I find it socially isolating and really unsatisfying. When I sit at a table with people around me eating delicious gluten laden dishes, I want to cry. I compare it to a recovering drug addict who lives in a crack house. On the occasions that I do inadvertently ingest gluten, and I have been eating "clean", I get catastrophically ill. Not only do I experience lower GI problems, but I also feel sore and feverish..... kind of like when you are coming down with the flu. However, if I am about to travel somewhere where I know I am highly likely to get accidentally poisoned with gluten, I will ramp up several days before. I'll eat tiny amounts (a cracker here, soy sauce, a piece of bread there..... avoiding gluten overload like pasta or gravy) of gluten. I'm pretty sick on the first day, but after that I'm just a little bit sick all of the time. Most importantly, I do not get catastrophically ill on the vacation. I find this an easier state of existence, and wonder if I should consider this during my every day life. Here is my question: If I have officially been diagnosed, and knowingly ingest small amounts of gluten, am I shortening my life? Am I being irresponsible as a patient? Have any of you had these same thoughts? I just really miss my old diet. I was happier before I was diagnosed. I am miserable. Amy
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- accidental ingestion
- diagnosed with celiac
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