Gluten: Some Cannot Tolerate it, Others Choose Not to Eat it
○ Storage proteins called prolamins in
wheat, rye,
barley, triticale, and oats
are known as "gluten".
○ For
those with Celiac disease, the area of the
small intestine used to absorb foods is damaged by gluten. The result is an inability to absorb protein,
fat, carbohydrates, vitamins,
and minerals. Malnutrition is the end result.
○ There is no
cure for Celiac disease. A gluten-free diet is prescribed.
○ Dermatitis
Herpetiformis (DH) is a chronic skin condition that may cause
lesions with intense itching and burning
sensations.
○ A gluten
sensitivity may play a role or cause DH. Eliminating all wheat,
rye, barley, oats, and triticale is often part of the
treatment. Prescription drugs are also known to improve the skin with no
time.
○ Triticale
is a man-made crop developed by crossing wheat and rye.
○ Those
diagnosed, which requires testing, with a gluten intolerance MUST follow
a strict diet.
○ Those who do not suffer from a gluten
intolerance but
choose to eat a gluten free diet, report feeling much better as a result.