Supplementing the Gluten-Free Diet

provided By CSA

Celiac disease prevents the body from absorbing nutrients properly. There are no longer as many functioning "holes in the sieve" for nutrients to get through to the blood stream. Even after the villi in the small intestine are described as being "back to normal," there remains the potential of some nutrients being absorbed at lower levels. Because of this, the monitoring physician may recommend a blood test analysis to learn if selected vitamins or nutrients are being absorbed at adequate levels.

Once a determination is made, supplementation of the GF diet may be advised. This recommendation may include selected intake of iron and folate and, in a few cases, one of the B vitamins. Occasionally there is need for replacement of fluids and electrolytes, including calcium, potassium and magnesium. Both men and women with low bone density may require vitamin D replacement. If there are associated conditions, such as lactose intolerance or diabetes, a series of additional treatment elements may apply.

It is important to remember that the immune system of a person with celiac disease is weak. The auto-immune system functions at a lower-than-normal level. Infections may not be handled as well as in other people. Stamina and resilience may not be at the level they once were. Most vitamins, food supplements and over-the-counter medications are based on and measured for persons at full-functioning, full-absorbing levels. A person with CD may need less or perhaps more of a particular vitamin, mineral or medication. Again, working with a monitoring physician will help determine what and how much is the appropriate allowance of a particular medical or supplemental product.

If symptoms persist after adopting a GF diet, further refinement may be necessary.

Maximizing One's Health

Be proactive! In order to allow for accurate and timely assessments, the monitoring physician needs to know when health screenings and evaluations are made in the following areas:

• up-to-date flu shots and pneumovax 23, the vaccine for pneumonia
• bone mineral density
• diabetes
• GI malignancies, colon cancer and hemo cell
• Iga levels in patients with recurring infections
• glandular function (thyroid)
• anemia

Summary

Living life on the gluten-free diet may seem like quite an adventure but, the health and well being that will be experienced, will far out-weigh any inconvenience it may cause. Working closely with a knowledgeable physician, and practicing wise self-management skills, will help a person with celiac disease live life to the fullest!