Gluten Free

Some of my patients have an icky tummy.  They are thin, anemic, and have osteoporosis.  They have been evaluated for Lactose Intolerance, Crohn’s, Colitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and Celiac Disease.  What do they have?

I recommend that they try a Gluten Free Diet.  Half a dozen are now cured of their chronic icky tummy.  Many more are feeling somewhat better.  Most are now able to digest their calcium well enough to improve their osteoporosis!  Amazing!  What do they have?

“Sub-Clinical Celiac” and “Gluten Sensitivity” are suggested names for a condition that I first heard about at NOF 3 years ago.  You may have it if you have chronic icky tummy and difficulty absorbing some nutrients such as Calcium, Iron, B complex.

The best work-up for this condition is a “theraputic trial”.  Try a gluten free diet for 2 weeks.  If you are feeling better, continue another 2 weeks and re-evaluate.  Locally, if you call ahead, the dietitician at Hy-Vee will help you navigate the gluten free isle and help fill your cart the first time.

Many people have a mild sensitivity to gluten or lactose.  Often it is not severe enough to show up on tests.  If you have an icky tummy, keep track of what you are eating and when you feel icky.  Then avoid those foods.  BUT, be sure to get all your nutrients (like calcium and protein from milk) from other sources.

I recently talked with the publisher of a collection of recipe’s that are gluten free.  Go to www.eatplaybe.com.

Good bone health depends on good nutrition.  Eat and absorb enough Calcium, Vitamin D3, Protein, and Magnesium.

Jay Ginther, MD

Categorised in: Nutrition, Osteoporosis