Earlier this week I shared my favorite products from the CDF Expo, now I’m going to share a little with you about the actual conference. I’m not a doctor, so I’m not going to give you any medical advice or share any of the medical slides with you (and honestly they were confusing to follow).
This is really exciting! They announced the launch of the Celiac Disease Foundation Marketplace App! It will be available to download in early summer. Currently the Marketplace is only available online. This is a one stop shop for everything gluten free! You can find info regarding everything from products, coupons, restaurants to even doctors in your area! I will for sure be downloading this when it comes out!
Next, A doctor from the pharmaceutical company “Celimmune” spoke about how they are working on a medication for non-responsive Celiac, as well as a stool sample to check the level of gluten in your stool. I think this could be helpful in regards to wondering if you really are sick from gluten vs. something else. But, at the same time I feel like okay so I have gluten in my system, now what? Like all the other medications that were discussed, no actual time frame was given.
Dr. Murray from the Mayo Clinic was a speaker again this year. I love hearing him speak (his accent helps too)! I took a few pictures of his slides:
A reminder of what Celiac Disease actually is.
I found this slide very interesting.
So many people kept asking questions about grocery shopping on a gluten free diet. Dr. Murray reminded everyone that the best way to shop is on the perimeter of the grocery store. Typically fresh foods are all located on the perimeter, meaning you’ll be eating healthier and naturally gluten free!
These are all things that are currently being worked on.
The large issues constantly being stressed were: the importance of adhering to a strict gluten free diet, getting family members tested (every 5 years or so), getting tested for Celiac prior to being on a gluten free diet, and making sure follow up care is provided.
As far as the future of medication for Celiac Disease, lots was discussed but nothing was mentioned as being close. Lots of clinical trials going on, so that’s a step forward!
If you have any other specific questions about the conference, please let me know!