I attended a lecture by South Florida's very own Dr Arthur Agatston who is the author of the bestselling book "The South Beach Diet". He now has a new book entitled, "The South Beach Diet Gluten Solution “. In it he explains how a myriad of our health problems might all be related to the presence of "gluten" in our diet. Gluten is a protein that holds wheat together and gives it a softer texture. Obviously it is found in wheat, rye and barley products but it is also found in many products where you least suspect it, (such as in soy or teriyaki sauce). The most extreme reaction to gluten is a disease called "celiac" in which your body has a tumultuous response to all foods containing gluten. This can be diagnosed with a blood test. However, "gluten sensitivity" has no specific test and can cause many symptoms. The most common being stomach, intestine and bloating issues. But did you know that it can also be linked to such maladies as arthritis, fibromyalgia, autoimmune diseases, thyroid disease and skin conditions (eczema and psoriasis)?
Here are some tips:
1. The 3 main contributing factors in gluten sensitivity relate to not having enough "good" bacteria in the gut, overuse of antibiotics and overuse of NSAIDs (Aleve, Motrin, Advil, Celebrex etc.). To improve your good bacteria, I recommend taking a strong "probiotic" daily. Look for 50 billion cfu's with multiple strains of both” lacto” and” bifido” bacteria. Try to only take antibiotics if you are sure you are dealing with a bacterial infection via a “culture and sensitivity” test (the common cold is viral, not bacterial). Try to use natural anti-inflammatories such as curcumin, garlic or celery extract instead of Advil or Aleve. Be advised that this must be done under medical supervision.
2. Since there is no blood test, the only way to see if gluten is not agreeing with you is to go off of it completely for 6 weeks and look for improvement of your symptoms. You can then reintroduce gluten back into your routine and see if the symptoms return. If they do, all is not lost, because you can safely use gluten once every 5-7 days after another 6 week elimination period.
3 . It is best to do this under the supervision of an appropriate medical professional who is well-versed in gluten sensitivity.
4. Once you are feeling better, I suggest you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can get you set up with “orthotics” so you can continue on your path to wellness....then you can “Start With Your Feet” for good health.
Walk Strong…with orthotics,
Doc Rick DPM