Celiac Disease: Gluten Free Diet (cont.)
Are there any dietary deficiencies associated with celiac disease?
Patients with celiac disease are at risk for some nutritional deficiencies. A
recent study evaluated the nutritional status of over 400 patients who had been
diagnosed with celiac disease within the past 3 months. They found that 12% had
folate deficiency, 5% had B12 deficiency and 33% of the men and 19% of the women
had iron deficiency. Celiac disease patients are also at risk of developing low
bone mineral density (osteoporosis).
There are two reasons for nutritional deficiencies in celiac disease
patients;
- the diseased small intestine causes lack of absorption of vitamins
and nutrients, and
- strict gluten restriction can also lead to nutritional
deficiencies.
Many of the gluten-free foods are not fortified or enriched with
vitamins or minerals. Studies have also shown that gluten-free products are
often low in B vitamins, calcium, vitamin D, iron, zinc, magnesium, and fiber.
Fortunately, there are blood tests that your physician can do to determine if
you are deficient in any of the above. It's important to be aware of what
deficiencies you are at risk for, and make every effort to avoid these
deficiencies.
The deficiency in nutrients does not mean a deficiency in calories. There is
an increased incidence of obesity in persons with celiac disease following a
gluten-free diet. The dietary goal is to follow a well-balanced diet, with
appropriate supplements when needed, and an adequate amount of calories for a
healthy weight.
What foods are safe to consume with celiac disease?
There has been much advancement to assist with complying with a gluten-free
diet. The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALPCA) requires
manufacturers to provide more information about the ingredients used to make
their food products, by specifying the presence of allergens on the product
label, including wheat. Wheat-free does not mean gluten-free so you will still
need to read the rest of the ingredients.
Next: Gluten-free foods »
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