| A gluten free diet is the recommended treatment | | | | through blood tests and an endoscopy, where a |
| for Celiac Disease or Celiac Sprue Enteropathy | | | | gastrointestinal specialist places a scope with a |
| (CSE). Though somewhat controversial, some | | | | camera down the esophagus into the first section |
| believe there is a subset of individuals that are | | | | of the small intestine, for viewing and for possible |
| sensitive to gluten, the protein portion of the grain | | | | biopsy of the lining of the small intestine. |
| in wheat, rye and barley. It was previously | | | | Though it can be challenging to avoid foods with |
| believed that oats were also involved, but more | | | | gluten, there are many cookbooks and recipes |
| current research indicates that those with Celiac | | | | available for gluten free cooking. If a person is |
| Disease can generally tolerate oats. A person with | | | | having difficulty sorting out food options and |
| Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity must read food | | | | those that should be avoided, there are websites |
| labels carefully. It can be hidden in sauces, soups, | | | | that can provide guidance and lists. Dietitians can |
| jams and pastes. It is also present in nearly all | | | | help by providing the most accurate information |
| baked goods, unless specifically market otherwise. | | | | on dietary restrictions. Perhaps the greatest |
| Though such products are usually found in | | | | challenge is in baking. Gluten is a somewhat sticky |
| specialty food stores, more grocery stores today | | | | substance and helps to keep dough together. |
| carry products without the offending ingredients. | | | | Baking with alternative flours takes some |
| The proteins of the offending grains cause a | | | | adjustment and experimentation. There are plenty |
| reaction in the small intestine that leads to | | | | of recipes available online as well. Blogs and |
| inflammation. The villi, or finger=like projections in | | | | discussion boards may also provide information |
| the small intestine are often flattened due to this | | | | from those who have tried various recipes and |
| reaction. Diagnosis of Celiac Disease is done | | | | have had success. |