Book Description

This is the first practical guide for the families of children and teenagers with celiac disease, a chronic, life-long digestive disorder. As many as one out of 150 to 250 Americans is born with this genetic auto-immune condition, which is characterised by intolerance of gluten -- a substance in wheat, oats, barley, malt, and other food additives -- and often goes undiagnosed. In a supportive conversational style, Danna Korn shows that it's possible for kids with celiac disease and their families to lead happy and healthy lives. Parents find advice on how to deal with the diagnosis, cope with the emotional turmoil, and help their child develop a positive and constructive attitude. Especially important is the guidance on menu planning, grocery shopping, strategies for proper food preparation, and deciding whether or not the entire family should be gluten-free. There's even a section on junk food! What about the child who has difficulty sticking with the prescribed diet? Parents find tips on conditioning behavior and how and when to give kids some control over what they eat. Also covered is the challenge of controlling meals outside of the home -- at birthday parties, restaurants, camp, and on vacation. There's also information about how federal regulations and tax laws apply to children with celiac disease. As the only comprehensive book of its kind, This book will be the bible for the thousands of families coping with this condition. Physicians and nutritionists too, will want to refer new families to this complete resource.