Celiac disease develops as the body fails to absorb foods that contain gluten. The disorder affects the small intestine that leads to other gastrointestinal and even neurological problems. It has varied symptoms although sometimes it may also now show any symptoms at all.

Since gluten is the main cause of this disease, a diet without this component is highly recommended for people diagnosed with celiac disease. Gluten is commonly found in cereals such as wheat, rye, oats and barley hence this should be strictly avoided. However, there are many other foods that contain the ingredient the reason why close consultation with a nutritionist would be very helpful when planning a gluten-free diet.

Unsafe foods

Avoid rice and soy beverages as barley enzymes may be used in their production.

There are other things to be wary of to be sure that you follow a purely gluten-free diet.

Safe foods

In the United States, the American Dietetic Association has come up with its Manual of Clinical Dietetics that provides guidelines for the treatment of various illnesses including celiac disease. The manual created by dietitians from the U.S. and Canada is used by hospitals and physicians across North America. Its list of foods safe for those suffering from the disorder include buckwheat, amaranth, distilled vinegar, distilled alcoholic beverages such as rum, gin, whiskey and vodka, millet, quinoa and teff.

Protein in the diet is still vital so make sure you get sufficient amounts from meat, poultry, fish, shellfish and eggs as well as from tofu, nuts, peanut butter, dry peas and beans. Get your dose of calcium from milk, plain yogurt, cottage cheese and regular cheese. Sugar, honey, jelly, olives, black pepper, butter, margarine, lard and shortening are safe to use as well.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are highly recommended. Other safe foods to eat include corn, amaranth, flax, nut flours, Indian rice grass, chickpeas, potatoes, seeds, sorghum, yucca and tapioca.

Staying away from foods with gluten may not be that hard as patients still have freedom when it comes to their nutrition. Since vinegar and alcohol are still okay, they can enjoy eating out and shopping because of easy access to more nutritious and safe grains.

It has been found that a gluten-free diet is effective in reducing symptoms and healing the small intestines within three to six months. The positive effect, however, depends on the history of the patient and severity of his symptoms. Older people suffering from the disease may take them two years to recover from the disorder. Additionally, symptoms such as delayed growth and discoloration of the teeth have no chance of improving.