Cara Cares (About Nutrition!)
May 2023
May is Celiac Awareness Month
These days more and more consumers are seeking gluten free options in the marketplace. This may be due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity/intolerance, wheat allergy or the belief that following a gluten free diet pattern is a healthier option.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in many grains such as wheat, barley, rye, spelt, malt and various others.
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an auto immune condition that affects the small intestine. Ingestion of gluten damages the small intestine which decreases the absorption of protein, fat, and vitamins. This leads to long term effects such as anemia, osteoporosis, and nerve damage. Therefore, it is vital that individuals with celiac disease maintain a gluten free diet to avoid this long-term damage and gastrointestinal distress. Celiac disease is diagnosed by medical tests.
What is Gluten Sensitivity/Intolerance?
Gluten sensitivity/intolerance usually causes gastric discomfort after the ingestion of gluten, however, does not cause damage to the small intestine.
What is a Wheat Allergy?
With a wheat allergy, an individual’s immune system reacts to various wheat proteins and this does not cause any long term damage to the small intestine.
Oats and the Celiac Diet
Individuals that have been diagnosed with celiac disease may have oats, however they must be only pure, uncontaminated oats. Only Oats are considered ideal for consumers that must adhere to a celiac diet.
Whether consumers are seeking out gluten free products out of necessity or choice, Planet Foods can provide many healthy choices.
Here are our May Featured Products
Only Oats Celiac Safe
Our Purity Protocol process produces oats that consistently contain 5 ppm* gluten, far surpassing the standard of 20 ppm set by FDA and Health Canada.*ppm refers to parts per million.
Only Oats are made up of 100% pure Canadian oats and free from all major allergens and additives.
Go Macro
Go Macro bars are great sources of plant powered protein and healthy fats. They have many designations including gluten free, vegan and organic. They are an excellent source of energy whether it be between meals or as an on the go refuel following a workout. They are ideal for energy for outdoor activities and camping.
Koochikoo
Koochikoo products have something to offer for both children and adults alike. In addition to being free of allergens such as gluten, dairy, soy and nuts, they are organic with no added sugar.They are sweetened with organic tapioca fiber which does not appear to raise blood sugar levels.
La Cocina
La Cocina chips are proudly produced in Manitoba and popular in other provinces as well. They are made from high quality stoneground corn and not too heavy on salt. As they are made from corn they are a great gluten free snacking option, available in both thin and thick cuts. Ideal for Spring and Summer BBQ seasons or all year round. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with La Cocina!
Tru Citrus
Tru Citrus products are made from pure citrus fruits and are an excellent way to flavor your food or water with natural flavors. They are pure crystallized citrus fruits with no additives (except for Stevia to the lemon and limeades). They are extremely convenient-the sachets and drink mixes can go in a purse, backpack, desk drawer and so on. The shakers are also very convenient for seasoning, especially at the BBQ or to take along on a camping trip. If there isn’t any fresh citrus around when entertaining just use the Tru Citrus packets!
May the Month of May Be Healthy and Nutritious!
Compiled with information provided by:
Only Oats
Dietitians of Canada
Celiac Canada
Cara Stoller, RD