Gluten Free Stats and Facts

Stats and Facts:

• Fact:  Food allergies and intolerances are ON THE RISE.

• Fact:  One in every 3 Americans modifies his or her diet in the believe that they, or a loved one, have a food allergy.  In many cases, it is a food intolerance causing the problems.

• Stat:  At least 30 MILLION Americans suffer from some sort of food intolerance.

• Fact:  Doctors are reporting an increase in food allergies in the USA.

• Stat:  8 Foods account for 90% of all food allergies.  (cow's milk, eggs, wheat or gluten, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, fish, and shellfish)

• Fact:  American parents with autistic children are experimenting with gluten-and-casein-free diets as a means to manage the symptoms of this condition. Many doctors are recommending such special diets to parents of autistic children.

• Fact:  Other health conditions (i.e. ADHD, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and candida, to name a few) have been suggested to benefit from specific food avoidance, especially the avoidance of gluten.

  

For parents of children with special diets, make sure friends, other parents, teachers, and coaches understand the necessity of the diet. Build a network of parents who can share your concerns and successes.  Don't live in a bubble- plan ahead to assure there is a treat your child can enjoy at parties and activities.  And, check out fun camp programs for kids with celiac disease or food allergies.  Each step taken to allow your child to participate in "normal" activities will help to ensure he or she feels comfortable in a social setting and can also be included in birthday parties, activities, and much more!

Additionally, remember that eliminating allergens can mean losing out on very important nutrients.  Look for allergy-friendly foods that are higher in fiber and fortified with vitamins and minerals.  Children and adults need a total balance for proper nutrition and and a healthier future.  A certified nutritionist can help in determining proper foods to help families with special diets realize ways to "fill in" the blanks.  Offer lots of different veggies and enjoy fruits, but don't overdo on fruits and fruit juices.  Be creative!

Life can still be good even without certain foods!