By Alex A. Kecskes
Traditional Chinese medicine can be helpful in treating a number of ailments. One common condition that many people suffer from is an intolerance to gluten. What is gluten? It’s the protein part of wheat, rye, barley, and other related grains, and for some people, gluten can be very hard to digest. When it comes in contact with the small intestine, it can create a condition known as celiac disease, which can injure the lining of the small intestine. This injury can ultimately result in weight loss, diarrhea, gas, abdominal cramps, or vitamin and mineral deficiencies. The University of Maryland Center for Celiac Research estimates that at least 10 million people in the US are gluten-sensitive.
For those suffering from celiac disease, TCM would first eliminate gluten from one’s diet, which would allow the lining of the intestine to heal. This would be followed up by some traditional Chinese herbs. While many herbs contain gluten, some are gluten-free.
TCM Herbs for Celiac Disease
TCM herbs that have been used to treat celiac disease include trifoliate orange, which would address bloating and digestive upsets. Fennel seeds are also recommended, as they can help regulate digestive tract functions. Nutmeg, which can easily be added to beverages, can be beneficial as well, for it tones the small intestine. Regardless of which TCM herb you choose, you should consult a Chinese herbal practitioner to advise you on the proper dosage.
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Addressing Dermatitis Herpetiformis and Gluten Intolerance
Another condition often linked to gluten intolerance is dermatitis herpetiformis, an extremely itchy rash of bumps and blisters. These usually appear on the elbows, knees, back, and buttocks. In addition to antibiotics prescribed by your medical doctor, TCM would recommend a strict gluten-free diet to help control the disease. Such a diet may even remove the need for some medications and can prevent later complications.
For those with a gluten intolerance, adopting a gluten-free diet isn’t easy. It means giving up many tasty, processed, shelf-stable foods. These include fattening wheat treats like soft chocolate chip cookies, take-out pizza, and donuts. On the other hand, it also means eating more fruits and vegetables to help your body fight off many common diseases.
Challenges of Adopting a Gluten-Free Diet
To complicate matters, many who have chosen a gluten-free diet have discovered that the offending grains are “hidden” in many foods. This is because food labeling is fraught with brand names that can be misleading. Adding insult to injury, staying gluten-free can also up your grocery bill, but there is hope. Increasing numbers of health-conscious shoppers have pushed the demand for gluten-free products. In 2008, more than 1,000 new gluten-free foods and beverages were introduced. So a gluten free lifestyle is becoming increasingly tasty, less boring, and hopefully less expensive.
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