I Want to: Stay Healthy! Check out The University of Chicago's Celiac Center for a Free Annual Blood Screening

 According to health reports, 1 out of every 133 people have celiac disease. Many doctors believe those numbers are closer to 1 out of every 40-50. Regardless of the exact numbers, it’s clear that there are a large number of people dealing with celiac disease, and some don’t even know it.
 
Fortunately, the increased awareness in the disease has led to a larger number of people getting diagnosed. Here are some reasons you may want to get tested:
 

• If you follow a regular diet and have a first or second degree relative with a biopsy-confirmed celiac disease (if your sibling or aunt has celiac disease this would qualify)

• If you have persistent gastointestinal symptoms such as IBS, acid-reflux/GERD

• If you or a close family member has Type I Diabetes

• If you have an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrom or Addison's disease

• If you have chronic fatigue, osteopenia/osteoporosis or Down syndrome. (Follow this link here for more info on possible symptoms).

 
There are over 300 symptoms related to celiac disease and studies have shown that following a gluten free diet helps many related health issues including: PCOS/infertility, thyroid, autism, ADHD, migraines and more. 
 
To keep yourself healthy and in the know, make sure you get tested. Each year the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center holds their annual free blood screening in the fall.  While there is no charge for the screening, pre-registration is mandatory.  Registration opened on September 1st. Call 773.702.7593 to schedule an appointment.  The free blood screening will take place on the 4th floor of The University of Chicago Duchossois Center for Advanced Medicine. 

 
Take care of yourself and stay healthy!
 
Healthy Regards,
Jasmine Jafferali, MPH, ACE-CPT
Chicago Family Health Examiner
www.glutenfreeclasses.com