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Can I follow the mediterrean diet if I might be gluten intolerant?

By February 22, 2011 - 11:18am
 
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I haven't been identified as gluten intolerant but I feel better when going wheat free. My sister has recently been identified as gluten intolerant. I have just received an angioplasty with a stent (95% blockage) and am concerned about pursuing the best type of diet for me.

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Hi,
I think it is important to step back, and first keep a detailed journal about your symptoms, when they occur, what you eat and drink, and talk with a doctor about a proper diagnosis.

You said you feel better when you do not eat wheat, and that your sister has been diagnosed with gluten intolerance. Please know: wheat allergies are different than gluten intolerance, and they each have different symptoms. There are also medical conditions, such as Celiac disease, that can be identified.

It is important to know what your symptoms are, what you are currently eating and what your triggers are prior to following a certain diet or meal plan.

As far as information about the "Mediterranean diet", there are many different types of "Mediterranean diets", some are considered "fad diets" and others are healthy ways to eat. Mediterranean diets can be high in fat (although the "healthy fat"), but it also can include a lot of fruits and vegetables. You can read more about what the American Heart Association says about this type of diet: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4644.

Does this information help?

February 22, 2011 - 2:00pm
(reply to Alison Beaver)

Alison, thankd for the info. I have an appointment Monday with my cardiologist and will ask him about scheduling a one-on-one appointment with a dietician. I'll also try keeping a diary about my symptoms after eating various wheat products. This sounds good if I can actually follow through for more than a couple of days.

February 26, 2011 - 10:55am
(reply to judigb)

I know....the follow-through is the most difficult aspect of changing any behavior!

Can you talk with the R.D. about the follow-through concern, as this is the key to success. I wonder if there are any support-type groups that you can join for the "accountability" aspect (either in-person or online), or if the R.D. provides weekly incentives or accountability checks... just any ideas the R.D. can provide would be beneficial!

Please keep us updated after your appointment!

March 1, 2011 - 1:44pm
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