Question:
I know I should do follow-up tests to monitor my celiac disease, but I know that I get gluten exposure because I have symptoms. What’s the point?
Answer:
Assuming gluten is still getting into your diet can lead to anxiety and fear, while finding out for sure and doing something about it can make you feel empowered and in control of your health. If you suspect you are still being exposed to gluten, consult a skilled registered dietitian. His or her advice can help you figure out where it might be coming from and allow you to live more fully gluten-free.
You can also use the Gluten Detective urine and stool tests at home to determine if you have been exposed to 50 mg or more of gluten in the previous one to seven days (50+ mg over previous 2-3 days using stool and 500+ mg over previous 24 hours using urine)
Eliminating gluten can heal your intestine, remediate many symptoms, and protect against gluten-related complications, for example:
- long-term inflammation that can precipitate numerous health abnormalities
- nutrient deficiencies (affecting mood, energy and concentration)
- anemia
- bone conditions such as osteopenia and osteoporosis
- infertility
- onset of other autoimmune diseases
- malignancy (cancer)
Being proactive rather than reactive by routinely monitoring your gluten consumption with at-home tests and also consulting a physician and dietitian knowledgeable about celiac disease and taking steps of your own to manage your gluten-free diet can lead to your feeling your best.
Best,
Nancy Patin Falini, MA, RDN, LDN Nutritional Graces, LLC Private Practice.
Consultant/Author/National Speaker.
Conducts both face-to-face and virtual nutrition and wellness education and counseling.
