SHOPPING & EATING FOR A GLUTEN FREE DIET
For June’s in-store class, The Turnip Truck welcomed Cheryl Chamberlain, the chapter advisor for CSA Celiac Nashville which provides support and information for patients (and families) diagnosed with Celiac
Disease and Gluten Intolerance — helping them adjust to a Gluten-Free Diet. Many customers, a few new to the store and some of our regulars, showed up for both Thursday and Saturday’s class and we had great participation. Cheryl provided us with some great tips and information to help people when switching to a gluten-free diet.
People choose to eat a diet free of wheat gluten for various reasons. Some simply notice they feel better by omitting it from their diet; some have gluten allergy, sensitivity or intolerance; and some have been diagnosed with Celiac Disease. Celiac Disease is one of the most common genetic conditions in the world. Celiac is a multi-symptom, multi-system disorder, activated by eating gluten - proteins found in wheat, rye and barley. Symptoms vary and are not always gastrointestinal. Cheryl said the statistics show that 97% of those with Celiac Disease go undiagnosed.
Those with gluten-free dietary needs should avoid foods that contain wheat (spelt, triticale, durum, kamut, einkorn, semolina, and seitan), barley, rye, or common oats. Also important is to be very careful to avoid any cross-contamination by these grains as well. A good rule for all is to include many simple, whole foods such
as fresh fruits and vegetables. Cheryl also recommends being careful to read all labels. Sometimes you may need to call a brand to find out more information. There are different gluten-free symbols used and each has a different meaning. Educate yourself on this and know what to look for when you are shopping.
The Turnip Truck carries many gluten-free products by brands such as: Udi’s, Bob’s Red Mill, Namaste, Pamela’s, Glutino, Field Day, just to name a few. CSA Nashville Celiac Chapter offers a wealth of information for anyone requiring help with this special dietary need. They hold meetings, publish quarterly newsletters, provide counseling and educational shopping trips for the newly diagnosed, and so much more. You can find them on their Facebook page.