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Celiac.com 08/27/2024 - With increasing awareness and diagnosis of celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity, strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is more critical than ever to prevent symptoms and long-term complications. However, despite best efforts, accidental gluten ingestion can still occur, causing significant distress for those affected. In fact, data shows that most celiacs are regularly exposed to gluten. Moreover, data also shows that most exposure to gluten is silent and ongoing. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to alleviate symptoms and support recovery. This article combines practical home remedies and strategies shared by our community members, along with insights from recent research. Understanding the Impact of Gluten Exposure Accidental gluten ingestion can lead to a range of symptoms for individuals with celiac disease, including upset stomach, inflammation, diarrhea, bloating, and skin rash. Recognizing these symptoms early is essential for implementing effective management strategies. Steps to Alleviate Symptoms Taking one or more of these ten-plus steps after gluten exposure can help minimize its impact. Hydration and Electrolyte Balance Stay hydrated and consider gluten-free electrolyte-replenishing drinks to maintain balance, especially if diarrhea is severe. Rest and Heat Application Rest and apply heat to alleviate stomach pain and cramping. Use a heating pad or hot water bottle for added comfort. Return to a Strict Gluten-Free Diet & Avoid Additional Irritants Recommit to a strict gluten-free diet immediately, avoiding processed or spicy foods that may further irritate the digestive system. Fasting: A Potential Immune System Reset Some studies suggest that intermittent fasting may help reset the immune system and reduce inflammation, which could be beneficial for those suffering from an adverse gluten reaction. However, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any fasting regimen. Digestive Enzymes for Bloating Relief Digestive enzyme supplements, such as GliadinX (a site sponsor here) can provide relief from bloating by assisting in the digestion of gluten, although this enzyme is best taken before accidental gluten ingestion, for example, before you eat a gluten-free meal in a restaurant. Herbal Remedies and Medications Herbal remedies like green tea, peppermint tea, and echinacea are often 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. However, before using herbal remedies, especially if you are on medication, consult your healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions. Probiotics for Gut Health Incorporating probiotics into a general gut maintenance program can be beneficial both before and after accidental gluten exposure. Recent research suggests that specific strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus reuteri and Bifidobacterium longum, may be especially beneficial for maintaining gut health in individuals with celiac disease. Nutrient-Rich Broth for Gut Healing Nutrient-rich broths, such as bone broth, which is rich in collagen and amino acids, can support gut healing and provide essential nutrition. Incorporating these broths into your diet can be particularly beneficial in promoting recovery after gluten exposure. Long-Term Strategies for Intestinal Health Rebuilding intestinal health is crucial for managing celiac disease. Implementing an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and low-FODMAP foods, can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting gut healing. Supplements such as L-Glutamine, tryptophan, coconut oil, fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, D, and K), calcium, magnesium, B-vitamins, essential fatty acids, and probiotics are also beneficial 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. Online support groups, teletherapy, and mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, are valuable tools for navigating the emotional aspects of living with celiac disease. Prioritizing self-care and seeking support from loved ones or professional counselors can also help in managing the stress associated with gluten exposure. Tummy Rescue Smoothie Recipe This smoothie is designed to soothe the digestive system after accidental gluten exposure. 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, practical steps can help 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, individuals with celiac disease can minimize the impact of accidental gluten exposure and promote their overall well-being. Staying informed about new research and potential treatment options is essential as our understanding of celiac disease continues to evolve. By following these guidelines and seeking appropriate medical advice, individuals can navigate the challenges of accidental gluten exposure with greater ease and maintain their health. 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.

Celiac.com 06/12/2014 - Here are five things people with celiac disease need regular folks to know about celiac disease: We are NOT on a Fad Diet—Celiac disease is not some vague, make-believe condition. Celiac disease is a potentially serious immune disorder that, if left untreated, can lead to a very deadly types of stomach, intestinal, and other cancers. Just because a bunch of people seem to think that gluten is the new high fructose corn syrup, doesn’t mean that I’m one of them. Remember, for people with celiac disease, gluten is no joke, and avoiding gluten is the only way to stay healthy. We Won’t Be Getting Over It—Currently, there is no cure for celiac disease, and the only treatment is a gluten-free diet. That’s the only way to avoid the gut damage, lower risks for other types of auto-immune conditions, and minimize the risk of various types of cancer associated with celiac disease. Celiac Disease is a Serious Condition—Since the effects of untreated celiac disease unfold slowly over time, it’s tempting for some people to look at celiac disease as a minor inconvenience. However, it’s important to understand that celiac disease is a potentially serious autoimmune disorder that, if left untreated, can leave people susceptible to other autoimmune conditions, and to deadly types of stomach, intestinal, and other cancers. A ‘Little Gluten’ Might Hurt Me—There’s no such thing as ‘a little gluten’ to people with celiac disease. Gut damage happens with as little as 20 parts of gluten per million. That is a microscopic amount. A 'gluten-free' diet means no gluten. Period. When in Doubt, Ask—If you’re not sure if I can safely eat a certain ingredient, or a certain food, just ask. Figuring out what is or is not gluten-free can be tricky, even for me. So, it's best to ask if you're not positive. Can you think of others?

Celiac.com 06/25/2014 - Chefs can be instrumental in guaranteeing a gluten-free dining experience for people with celiac disease. However, otherwise competent and well-meaning chefs can get some basic things wrong about gluten-free food for people with celiac disease, including: 1) The Culprits are Wheat, Rye and Barley Did you know that, in addition to avoiding anything made with wheat, or wheat flour, people with celiac disease can’t eat anything made with rye or barley? In a 2012 quiz, fewer than half of the chefs at a major culinary event could name a grain, other than wheat, that was harmful to people with celiac disease. So, it’s rye and barley, in addition to wheat. Got it? 2) Cross-contamination is a Real Problem The tiniest amounts of gluten, anything over 20 parts per million, can cause real and serious problems for people with celiac disease. Eating gluten causes things like stomach cramps, nausea, dizziness, diarrhea and vomiting, and other unpleasantness for people with celiac disease. No chef wants a patron to leave feeling like that. That’s why it’s so important for any chef or cook offering gluten-free food owes it to it’s patrons with celiac disease to get gluten-free right. 3) Gluten-free Ingredients Don’t Guarantee Gluten-free Food Once chefs master the basics about what is or is not gluten-free, the next step is to avoid cross-contamination when preparing, cooking and serving gluten-free food. Do you cook gluten-free pasta in the same pot of water as regular pasta? Do you make gluten-free pizza in the same prep area or oven as regular pizza? Do you thicken soup, or sauce, or gravy with flour? Do you put croutons on salads? Do you cook regular and gluten-free foods in the same oven or grill? Do you use the same water to boil regular and gluten-free pasta? If so, you are adding gluten to otherwise gluten-free food. That’s a big no-no! 4) Best Practices for Guaranteeing Gluten-free Food Practices like those listed above are part of the cross-contamination problem faced by so many people with celiac disease. Remember, there’s no such thing as ‘a little gluten’ to people with celiac disease. To make sure you get it right, know the culprits wheat, barley and rye, be vigilant and watch for cross-contamination. Also, be sure to design and adopt a list of best practices for your particular kitchen that will guarantee a gluten-free dining experience for your patrons with celiac disease. By all means, please feel free to share your ideas about what chefs get wrong, and/or can do to ensure a safe gluten-free dining experience for people with celiac disease.