In 2005 I was diagnosed as gluten intolerant after several years of what I thought was chronic indigestion. I was taking an acid-reduction medication daily with some success. I was fatigued all the time. I thought it was part of getting older (early 50s at the time.) My daughter, who had different symptoms, was diagnosed as well. We have both been on a gluten-free lifestyle ever since. Our energy levels have improved dramatically. And for me, no more purple little pill.

Between 1 - 3% of the population in America is intolerant of gluten, some with no symptoms while others with many. A number of these individuals have gluten sensitivity and others will actually develop Celiac Disease. Either of these issues requires that the individual go on a strict gluten-free diet. Gluten includes wheat, barley, rye and products made from these grains. A genetic predisposition causes the immune system to attack the gluten molecule and in so doing, it also attacks your body's cells. This autoimmune response causes damage to the small intestine and other organs. Long-term illnesses including other autoimmune diseases can ensue if a healthy gluten-free diet is not followed. The gluten-free diet allows the intestinal tract to heal and many symptoms to subside. There are many great gluten-free products on the market. Grains allowed and not allowed on a gluten-free diet are listed in the box to the right. It is important to read all food labels. If the ingredients listed are questionable, do not eat them unless you can verify that they are gluten free.

For more information or to request a presentation, please email Dr. Clench at drmargaretclench@gmail.com or call her at 214-754-8080. An initial hour-long consulting session is $50. Additional consulting sessions are $100 per hour.

Here are some links for more information:

www.Celiac.org --- Celiac Disease Foundation

www.enterolab.com --- Clinical laboratory specializing in gluten-intolerance testing kits and education

www.Celiac.com --- Products and education

www.Gluten.net --- Support group

www.LivingWithout.com --- Magazine and education source

www.UnrefinedBakery.com --- Gluten-free, soy-free, and often dairy-free, all-natural and organic bakery in Dallas, TX that ships nationwide