My friend’s daughter was recently diagnosed with celiac disease and she contacted me immediately looking for a list of resources that she could check out. There are so many more resources for people living with celiac or gluten-sensitivity than there were when I was first diagnosed in 2003 or when my older daughter was diagnosed with celiac in 2007! Don’t believe everything you read and keep in mind that information is evolving…
When a person is first diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it can seem overwhelming to get a handle on the diagnosis itself, the implications, the food, and how daily life needs to change immediately. The following websites might help you sort out some of the information.
Some great websites…
Celiac Disease Foundation– information on celiac disease, gluten free diets, information for kids and families
The Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University – run by Dr. Peter Green, a gastroenterologist, is a great site with information for adults and children diagnosed with celiac.
Celiac Sprue Association – CSA pursues a mission that dedicates its efforts to helping individuals with celiac disease and gluten sensitivities through research, education and support.You can find state and local chapters of CSA support groups here on this website. If you, or someone you love, has celiac disease, you probably want to join this organization.
1 in 133 – It is estimated that 1 in 133 people have celiac disease – probably more! This
If you are looking for school lunch resources… The American Celiac Disease Alliance has a page dedicated to public school systems serving gluten-free lunch options. Click here to read about a few schools who are doing a great job providing GF options for students.
School Lunch FAQ – Click here to read a list of commonly asked questions and answers about the rights of students who are diagnosed with celiac disease.
Whole Foods Gluten-Free Product List – If you have a Whole Foods near you, you probably know how awesome they are about carrying a wide variety of GF products. Whole Foods even carries their own line of gluten-free products (365) which can be a real bargain!
Udi’s Gluten Free Community – Are you looking for a great online resource to connect with other people eating gluten free? Check out the Udi’s Gluten Free Community. You can post questions, respond to other posts, and generally make a few new friends!
Magazines …
Living Without is an excellent magazine for people who have food allergies – not just celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Delight Gluten-Free is another one of my favorites! They always have amazing recipes and they are now even offering a digital only magazine option.