This Week in Celiac Disease - April 13, 2016

Top 5 Celiac Disease Stories You May Have Missed This Week



1) Link Between Celiac Disease and Non-Coding RNA
Up until now most genetic research on Celiac Disease has been focused on DNA. Doctors in Spain have made new discoveries when studying RNA, A section of RNA, 1nc13, appears to play a role in the inflammatory response to gluten in those who carry HLA- DQ-2 or 8 genes. Doctors are looking further to see if low levels of this RNA can play a role in earlier diagnosis.

2) The Challenge of Accommodating Celiac Disease in Nursing Homes
Curtiss Ann Matlock shares the difficult process in finding a nursing home to accommodate her mother's Celiac Disease needs. This is a topic that has not received much attention until now, and is thought provoking as older patients start looking for long term care. Tricia Thompson covers your rights and questions to ask staff on her Gluten Free Dietitian website as well.

3) Univ. of Chicago Claims Blood Test & Biopsy Still Best To Diagnose Celiac Disease
The University of Chicago's Celiac Disease Center explained in their latest newsletter the importance of BOTH blood antibody testing and small bowel biopsy int he diagnosis of Celiac Disease. Dr Carol Semrad explained how other diseases may cause similar intestinal damage, therefore requiring blood screening as well. This newsletter edition also covers nutritional deficiencies that affect Celiac patients.

4) Chick -fil- A to offer gluten free bun
Chick-fil-A is testing out gluten-free buns in certain southern states. Buns will be served in their own individually wrapped packages, and will cost an additional $1.15. Individual packaging will help to prevent cross-contact as Chick-fil-A is not a gluten-free environment. This will be similar to how Culver's serve their gluten-free buns for their burgers.



5) Purity Protocol Oats and the Need for Consumer Loyalty
The issue of oats has been a "hot topic" among the Celiac Disease community lately. Ever since Cheerios started optical sorting of non-pure oats, there have been concerns about oat safety. The above linked article explains the issue in detail, and includes a link to the 6 companies in the nation that grow oats under purity protocol. Those of us with Celiac Disease can take a stand on the issue with our buying habits.

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