THE DIRT
What is Gluten?
- Gluten is a cereal protein found in wheat, rye, barley, oats and all wheat-related grains such as couscous, spelt, bulgur and kamut
- It can also find its way into meat products and cosmetics
- Gluten production has significantly increased over the past two decades, making it one of the cheapest industrial proteins

Coeliac Disease
- Coeliac Disease (also called Gluten-Sensitive Enteropathy or Sprue) is a genetic disorder of the small intestine which is the result of a permanent intolerance to dietary gluten
- Symptoms of Coeliac Disease include fatigue, anaemia, flatulence, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, cramping, nausea and vomiting
- One study indicates that 1 in 250 Australians have the condition whilst another study suggests that the prevalence is 1 in 100
- Coeliac Disease is diagnosed by a blood test and a small-bowel biopsy which examines the condition of the small intestine
- Damage to villi (small finger like projections) of the small intestine occurs when the immune system destroys surrounding intestinal tissue in the process of trying to neutralize gluten
- Coeliac disease often leads to lactose intolerance, osteoporosis, anaemia, vitamin deficiencies and increased intestinal permeability, frequently resulting in multiple food allergies
- Going on an Elimination Diet is the best way to find out which foods are likely causes of other food sensitivities, but it is important to wait until after a diagnosis

Non-Coeliac Gluten Intolerance
- It is possible to have a gluten intolerance without having Coeliac Disease, and is usually less severe
- This can be a result of too much gluten in the diet, as anything in excess can lead to health problems
- Common symptoms include mouth ulcers, abdominal cramps, flatulence, diarrhoea, bloating and nausea

It is also recommended that people with gluten sensitivity take nutritional supplements of a higher potency than normal supplements. This should be discussed with a doctor or health care practitioner to determine the right dosage.

G SPOT
Visit the CleanLife BLOG for a great rundown on grain options that are gluten free.  If you would like a little cooking inspiration visit the LOOSE PRODUCE website, which has information on Gluten Free Cooking Classes.

COME CLEAN
Going gluten free can actually increase the different types of foods you enjoy.......

Variety has been said to be the spice of life. So when eliminating wheat or gluten from your diet, visit Loose Produce in Como and try some of the amazing grains and legumes all of which are gluten free!  2 Hobbs Avenue Como  (WA) (08) 9474 9100  www.looseproduce.com


There is a wide range of foods that are naturally gluten free. This includes:
. Rice, Corn (Maize), Sago, Tapioca, Buckwheat, Millet, Amaranth, Sorghum, Quinoa, Arrowroot  (Read this weeks BLOG for more details)
. Potatoes
. Fresh fruit and vegetables
. Legumes
. Plain, fresh meat, poultry and fish
. Plain milk
. Eggs

References
http://wa.coeliac.org.au/documents/CSWA-Catering%20for%20a%20gluten%20free%20diet%202007.pdf
http://www.coeliac.org.au/coeliac-disease.htm
http://www.lifeforceretreats.com/news/2005/03/10/coeliac-or-non-coeliac-gluten-intolerance/
Jill Thomas, Healthy Gut Guide, 2007, Penguin Books