I salute Giant Foods for including this important reminder on their website even though I do not agree with it fully. I will quote the full statement and then comment on it.

“Following a strict gluten-free diet when not medically prescribed poses a significant risk for inadequate intake of folic acid, B vitamins, iron, calcium, vitamin D and fiber. Your physician can order testing to determine if you have celiac disease and need to follow a gluten-free diet. As with any health related condition, consult your physician first, prior to any dietary changes.”

I’ll repeat the statement including my opinions in parentheses: “Following a strict gluten-free diet when not medically prescribed poses a significant risk for inadequate intake of folic acid, B vitamins, iron, calcium, vitamin D and fiber. [These difficulties can be overcome with effort and study. Most diets are dangerous if a person simply jumps into them without guidance and/our professional advice.]

Your physician can order testing to determine if you have celiac disease and need to follow a gluten-free diet. [A diagnosis of  celiac disease  indicate that a life-long commitment to the gluten free diet is required. A negative test for celiac disease does no rule out the possibility that some form of the gluten free diet might be helpful for some period of time. Getting tested for celiac disease is an important first step, but the final decision is up to the individual.]

Obviously, these are my personal opinions. I’m publishing this on Sunday and am planning to post a different editorial each week. I’d love to reactions to these ideas. my e-mail address is gfceliac@gmail.com or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.