Gluten and Wheat and Food Allergies and intolerances

By Mabel Blades freelance dietitian and nutritionist.
E-mail mabel@qmnds.demon.co.uk

Introduction

The whole area of food allergies and food intolerances is a complex and controversial one. There are many medical problems, which are related to food intolerances.

Obviously coeliac disease is the most common form of gluten intolerance but there are other conditions, which benefit from a wheat or gluten free diet.

Definitions

Food intolerance is a condition whereby a person is adversely affected by a food, beverage, ingredient or additive in a food. This adverse reaction occurs every time that the food is taken even if the food is disguised in a meal. The term food intolerance includes food allergies, digestive enzyme defects, pharmacological reactions and other non-specific reactions to foods.

Disorders which can be due to food intolerances

There are a number of disorders which have been considered to be due to food intolerances, and these include;

• Coeliac disease and Dermatitis Herpetiformis
• Diarrhoeas
• Cystitis
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),
• Autism
• Depression and irritability
• Migraines and headaches
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Skin rashes such as urticaria
• Crohn's disease

Food causing intolerance

All types of foods and ingredients can cause reactions depending on the individual. These include;

• Tree nuts (such as almonds, brazils and walnuts)
• Shellfish such as prawns
• Eggs and foods containing them
• Milk and foods made from milk
• Lactose from milk and milk products
• Gluten from wheat, rye and barley
• Wheat and items containing it
• Citrus fruits and juices
• Sesame including oils and seeds
• Sunflower as seeds and oils
• Poppy seeds found in breads and biscuits.
• Molluscs such as snails and cockles.
• Beans of all types including soya beans and soya milk
• Peas and lentils.

Wheat and gluten intolerances

The most important intolerance to gluten is that of coeliac disease whereby a reaction occurs in the mucosal lining of the small intestine. As a result the villi become flattened and hence have a reduced capacity for absorption. A small percentage of people with coeliac disease require a wheat free diet rather than just a gluten free diet. Dermatitis Herpetiformis is a skin condition where itchy blisters form and treatment is by a gluten free diet. For both conditions gluten free products are available on prescription.

Some people with other conditions such as IBS or rheumatoid arthritis may also have an intolerance to wheat. Although a wheat free diet can eliminate symptoms the wheat free products are not available on prescription.

Some people who have an intolerance to wheat may also have an intolerance to another food such as milk.

"Gluten Free Foods Ltd"

The company "Gluten Free Foods Ltd" supplies a wide range of foods. The majority of these are not just gluten free but also wheat free. Additionally they supply many foods which are also free of common allergens such as yeast, milk, eggs and soya as well as being gluten and wheat free. This can be invaluable for those who have a number of intolerances. Many of the products are also free of any additives and preservatives. Clear information is given on the pack as to the ingredients in a product.

Product lists and recipes are provided to both health professionals and those who require a diet free of wheat or gluten. A regular newsletter called the "Gluten Free Foods Digest" containing practical information is compiled. State Registered Dietitians are employed in the company to provide expertise and support to enquirers.

Sources of help

Sate Registered Dietitians can usually be contacted via the local hospital or community trusts.

The Anaphylaxis Campaign, PO Box 149, Fleet, Hampshire. GU13 9XU. 01252 542029 website www.anaphylaxis.org.uk

British Allergy Foundation. Deepdene House, 30 Bellgrove Rd., Welling, Kent. DA16 3BY. 0208 3038525. Website www.allergyfoundation.com

Coeliac Society. PO Box 220, High Wycombe. HP11 2HY. 01494 437278. Website www.coeliac.co.uk

Gluten Free Foods Ltd, Unit 270, Centennial Park, Centennial Avenue, Elstree, Borehamwood Herts WD6 3SS Telephone 020 8953 4444 www.glutenfree-foods.co.uk

 

 

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