Wheat and Dairy Free Diet

Wheat is most commonly associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and many people start with this Wheat and Dairy Free Diet as a first step. Many others use it for an aid in Healthy Weight Loss. Whatever your reason, below is the ‘Basic’ Knowledge referencing this kind of diet.

To begin with, a Wheat and Dairy Free Diet is not the same as a Gluten Dairy Free Diet. This Diet is exactly what is says, Wheat and Dairy Free. To go on this diet, you would eliminate all Dairy and Wheat products whilst a Gluten Diet involves the elimination of all Gluten containing products such as Rye, Barley and of course Wheat, as well as processed foods which may have hidden Gluten added within the manufacturing process. Other products that contain wheat, and will require avoidance, would include many soups, bread, pasta's and occasional sauces.

A Wheat and Dairy Free Diet is difficult to maintain. None the less, it can be done. You can cut out the normal Wheat products, eat Gluten Free products and visit Health Stores that will specifically have food for this purpose. 

Wheat and Dairy Free Diet & Weight Loss

Colon Cleansing, or to be blunt, flushing out the Colon is an up and coming trend within the Weight Loss Society. This can be done using a machine known as a Colonic or Colon Therapy, however the natural and healthier way would be to use natural ingredients that aid in natural weight loss by increasing the body’s metabolism.

Such foods are of course Wheat and Dairy Free Foods that include fruit, vegetables, lean meat and poultry. With little toxins and containing a high concentration of antioxidant's & fibre, these foods, when eaten in moderation, will induce natural and healthy Colon Cleansing.

Be sure to Check Foods Such as:

	Pasta's, Breads and many Baked Goods
	Processed Snack Foods
	Breaded Meats & Vegetables
	Salad Dressings
	Beer
	Soups
	Breakfast Cereals

Also remember to check foods for the following, unless the label clearly states the absence of wheat:

	Natural flavourings
	Vegetable, Gelatinised, Modified Food & Pregelantinized Starch
	Hydrolysed vegetable protein

Living With A Wheat And Dairy Free Diet

Researchers are unsure as to why, but celiac disease and lactose intolerance are on the rise. It is associated with a predisposition based on a gene in combination with environmental conditions, but the exact combination and cause remain elusive. Additionally, those with this condition often find that it takes years to diagnose and can even become life-threatening if not treated. Treatment, actually, is quite simple. It simply requires a wheat and dairy free diet.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack the small intestine. In this part of the body small follicles that appear to be hairs serve to absorb needed nutrients from eaten food and transfer them directly to the bloodstream. With this condition these "hairs" flatten out and shrink moving food directly to the large intestine without being process by the body. This results in malabsorbtion.

When needed vitamins and minerals can no longer be absorbed by the body, severe consequences result. Many develop conditions such as osteoporosis, gastro-intestinal symptoms and, eventually, even malnutrition. Initially one may experience fatigue, weight loss, shortness of breath, dehydration, and many other conditions which can become life-threatening if not treated. Unfortunately, once follicles are damaged they will not recover, but a change in diet can provide the needed supplements to the body and relieve discomfort.

This condition can attack persons of any age and, when in combination with lactose intolerance, can result in violent reactions which affect not only body functions, but skin as well. This is due to the fact that when the immune system fails to function properly, allergic reactions increase. Reactions to allergy related stimulants can include rashes, hives, enzyme, and much more. These will often occur shortly after eating, or exposure to, products containing gluten and dairy products.

This condition is much more difficult to diagnose than one might think. Often it takes years before a correct diagnosis is made and, in the meantime, those suffering from this condition are at a loss as to how to relieve symptoms. Much more is known about the condition today, however, than ever before. Internet websites and service providers abound with information and recipes that provide relief to many who suffer from this condition. Additionally, it has been found effective for many other conditions never considered before.

For those looking to switch to a wheat and dairy free diet, it is important to remember than these ingredients may be embedded in many products and are, therefore, difficult to detect. Not only eliminating breads, pastas, and bakery items from a diet may be necessary, but also processed foods which include these ingredients. Frozen dinners, skillet meals, and many other staples are often loaded with wheat, gluten, and lactose so reviewing labels before purchasing products will become ever more important.

When food is eaten the stomach breaks it down with acids then the small intestine absorbs needed vitamins and minerals. Carbohydrates turn into sugars which are then absorbed by the body. A breakdown in any one system can result in conditions that cause nausea, cramping, bloating, diarrhea, and that "uncomfortable feeling." Few medical alternatives are available, however, changes in diet have had immediate and significant results.

Changing a diet can be difficult as it requires a change in behavior. We become so use to the instant gratification of drive-through restaurants and frozen meals that to change in such a way as fresh food is cooked at every meal can become a challenge. However, it doesn't have to be a difficult change if one thinks outside the box. For instance with summer coming, the opportunity to grill meat, fresh vegetables, and fruit over an open fire can set mouths watering before the food ever hits the plates.

This diet can also be advantageous for those with other conditions as well. One of the newest uses has been for children who are autistic. Researchers are perplexed as to why it works, but many parents rave over the results. When diets for children with this condition are altered, changes are seen in associated behaviors, ability to focus, activity levels, and improvement in speech. Additionally, once it is realized that these products can also be absorbed through the skin, additional precautions can be taken to ensure children are no longer exposed.

Many are unaware that wheat and dairy products are included in many products which are not consumed. Hand lotions, children's play-doh, and even the glue on stickers and stamps, all contain these products. Since they come into contact with the skin they can be absorbed and cause the same reaction as if eaten. This is an important factor for those with sensitivity to gluten and dairy products.

The rise in cases of celiac disease and lactose intolerance currently have researchers working overtime. Despite the cause and potential cures for these disorders, however, changing diet and eliminating gluten/casein (lactose) containing products from the home works. Additionally, it can provide an opportunity to put on a new kind of chef's hat and explore new flavors, textures, and looks in the food presented. But it also requires dedication and effort in sticking to the plan.

With a change in the family diet, grilling this summer can be more fun than ever. On this diet many foods can still be included, such as meat, chicken, fish, vegetables, and even fruit. Additionally, many gluten and lactose free products are now available in supermarkets, although price is generally somewhat higher. The important thing to remember is that resisting processed foods and opting for fresh is the best rule of thumb and this often leads to weight loss without even trying.

Diets which are most effective also include an exercise regime. After all, keeping the body fit and in tip-top shape is important to ensuring maximizing function. Just as changing to a wheat and dairy free diet will take discipline and consistency, so will any new exercise program. It is important, however, to ensure that the entire house is free from products containing gluten and dairy ingredients as absorption through the skin can be extremely dangerous just as eating these products can be.

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