An article in the NY Times online is headlined thusly: Really? Celiac Disease is Influenced by Season of Birth. It concludes, not surprisingly, that there are studies suggesting that the season of birth may influence incidence of celiac, though more research is needed. The article cites to three studies -- one recently published -- that have found a correlation between spring/ summer births and an increased incidence in celiac. One theory about the correlation is that typical introduction to gluten occurs around 6 months and, in babies born in spring or summer, that coincides with the winter and an increase in colds and flus. Another theory is that vitamin D exposure may play a role. I am clearly no scientist and these theories seemed truly odd to me -- how does it occur to someone to investigate this?? However, I am loving that studies are being conducted. It gives me hope that there may be some conclusions drawn during my lifetime. Perhaps even a way to prevent it.
Showing posts with label Alternative Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alternative Health. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Beyond Gluten-Free
Having celiac is nothing if not completely life-altering. Your history has an immediate schism: pre-GF and GF. Memories are altered with the overlay of new information (oh, my ability to eat anything and actually lose weight is not a good thing?) Moreover, every new experience is colored with the shade of celiac. Immediately, grocery shopping is medicinal. There are explanations for inexplicable ailments. You aren't the crazy, hysterical hypochondriac.
I have found that, contrary to popular current opinion, managing the disease involves a holistic approach. Yes, you must eat gluten-free. You also, though, may have to change your make-up. You may need to treat the inevitable symptoms that come from having lived with untreated celiac for a long period of time. You also need to be aware that not everything in your life relates back to the disease. It is possible that you really just have a stomach ache. Or that the extreme exhaustion you are feeling is from your toddler being up all night instead of inadvertent glutening.
In that regard, it is useful to have an arsenal of resources to supplement your physician in treating the total life experience of having celiac. Eastern medicine--specifically, acupuncture and massage therapy--can be particularly helpful in relieving stress, counteracting headaches and just basic life management. There are infinite levels of ability, costs and venue available in DC. Unlike some things in life, however, cost does not necessarily correlate to ability. You can get a terrible massage at a fancy spa. You can pay a ton for acupuncture that is perfunctory and impersonal. Alternatively, you could check out my favorites.
For massage: Eye Street Massage. They aren't fancy. In fact, as you hike up the four flights of stairs in the dingy building, I can almost guarantee you'll be skeptical. But I've found that they are universally very good. I particularly like Dee and Pam.
For acupuncture: Pekoe Acupuncture. Whenever I get glutened, I get a migraine. It's a clear, direct correlative event. It sucks. Nicole Mires has helped me through some of my worst. To be honest, I don't go with any regularity (which I understand is how you get the most benefit). Nonetheless, I have found it to be really effective in managing pain.
I have found that, contrary to popular current opinion, managing the disease involves a holistic approach. Yes, you must eat gluten-free. You also, though, may have to change your make-up. You may need to treat the inevitable symptoms that come from having lived with untreated celiac for a long period of time. You also need to be aware that not everything in your life relates back to the disease. It is possible that you really just have a stomach ache. Or that the extreme exhaustion you are feeling is from your toddler being up all night instead of inadvertent glutening.
In that regard, it is useful to have an arsenal of resources to supplement your physician in treating the total life experience of having celiac. Eastern medicine--specifically, acupuncture and massage therapy--can be particularly helpful in relieving stress, counteracting headaches and just basic life management. There are infinite levels of ability, costs and venue available in DC. Unlike some things in life, however, cost does not necessarily correlate to ability. You can get a terrible massage at a fancy spa. You can pay a ton for acupuncture that is perfunctory and impersonal. Alternatively, you could check out my favorites.
For massage: Eye Street Massage. They aren't fancy. In fact, as you hike up the four flights of stairs in the dingy building, I can almost guarantee you'll be skeptical. But I've found that they are universally very good. I particularly like Dee and Pam.
For acupuncture: Pekoe Acupuncture. Whenever I get glutened, I get a migraine. It's a clear, direct correlative event. It sucks. Nicole Mires has helped me through some of my worst. To be honest, I don't go with any regularity (which I understand is how you get the most benefit). Nonetheless, I have found it to be really effective in managing pain.
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