More on Celiac Testing
How important is it that people be tested for celiac disease before beginning a gluten free diet? These question have been asked on this blog several times and has gotten many answers. Here are two more responses:
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WRITER #1: Actually, I was diagnosed with celiac sprue and have been on a strict diet for a little over one week. I guess I’m an adaptable person, and at times it’s frustrating, but to be truthful, if it leads to healthier lifestyle, I’m all for it and it makes things easier in the long run.I was actually being tested for something else too when they found it with a biopsy and since I have gone on the diet I feel much better. However they did the endoscopy before they did my blood tests so I am still waiting for them and don’t know what vitamin deficiencies I have yet. In the meantime, I saw a nutritionist yesterday who has celiac disease and she is being very helpful.
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WRITER #2: We have elected not to have our kids "officially" tested for CD or NCGS because we don’t want them labeled for life by insurance companies. We learned about gluten sensitivity rather late in the game, and are having our kids keep food journals and have made them aware of various symptoms so that they can begin to take charge of their health. Since we are aware of the problem, we are already keeping an eye on them. Also, I am NEVER in favor of mandating what another parent must do with their child.
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"Are you willing to make a life-long commitment to the gluten free diet without having a clinical diagnosis of celiac disease? Do you nhave the right to put your child in that situation?" Those question have been at the heart of this dialog. You may be interested in checking out my articles dated 04/29/09 and 06/19/09 in which I have published responses from the members of this blog.
Where do I stand on these questions? It is certainly time that I share my thoughts. This article is already long enough. I’ll publish my thoughts on July 9, 2009, one week from today. When you read that article, keep in mind that these are "what-if" questions from my point-of-view: I have already been diagnosed — my sons volunteered to be tested when they saw what the gluten free diet did for me — my grandchildren are being monitored carefully.
Published 07/02/09
