Many things that I learned during the first months after my diagnosis in 1999 have since been debunked as “myths”. “Myth” is a very harsh word — “outdated information” might be a better term. Here are six statements that seem to be true today that differ sharply with what I was taught originally. Perhaps I misunderstood (I was certainly under severe stress). Perhaps some modern “debunkers” are wrong and we should return to what experts once believed.

Anyway, I would like to check the validity of these statements by sending information that disproves any of these statements. E-mail me at gfceliac@gmail.com

Consider these statements:

→ 1. Vinegar is OK on the gluten free diet. The only exceptions to this would be malt vinegar (since it has not been distilled) or vinegar to which flavorings have been added.

→ 2. The glue used to seal envelopes does not contain gluten.

→ 3. It is certainly possible to lose weight on the gluten free diet – but gluten free does not mean low calorie, low carbs, or low-fat and people who’s only goal is to take off weight should use a diet designed for that purpose.

→ 4. Gluten can’t be absorbed through the skin. Thus, toothpaste and lipstick and other items that might be ingested are a concern but we do not need to worry so much about shampoo or cosmetics.

→ 5. MSG is gluten free. Many people (including some celiacs) react to MSG but these reations are not gluten accidents.

→ 6. Celiac disease is an auto-immune disease not an allergy. This distinction is important because allergies can be cured or simply outgrown. Celiac disease requires life-long adherence to the gluten free diet.

Published 9/5/10