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Planning a fun-filled family vacation this summer? There’s no better place than Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, especially if some of your family members have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.  Disneyland and Disney World offer spectacular food options for guests with special dietary needs, including gluten-free meals, snacks and confections at their many eateries, bistros, and cafeterias.  Make your dinner reservations at the Blue Bayou, which overlooks the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. A chef will personally come to your table to help you order your celiac-approved dinner.  The only catch is that you need to call them twenty-four hours ahead of time.

Cinderella’s Castle,  Now Serving Celiacs

Contact the Disneyland Resort, or email them directly at specialdiets@disneyworld.com to receive a form that you can fill out to notify them of your arrival date.  Visit the Disney website for more info on their commitment to food allergies and special dietary needs.

Why does Disney  bother to go above and beyond to meet your gluten-free needs?  The Walt Disney parks pride themselves on accommodating to all special needs, including gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, peanut–free, lactose-intolerant, kosher, and autism diet requirements.  There are plenty of on-the-spot gluten-free fast food items available in various locations around all the Disney resorts and parks- you just have to know where to look.  Stop at Main Street to pick up a list of all gluten-free food items that are available throughout the park.

Disneyland and Disney World Gluten-Free Menu Items:

Disneyland, California

Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port: Gluten-free pizza & gluten-free pasta

Club Buzz: Hamburger on a gluten-free Kinnikinnick bun

Taste Pilot’s Grill: Hamburger & french fries

Coke Corner Main St: Hot dogs with gluten-free tapioca buns

Big Thunder Ranch BBQ: Most, but not all, menu items

The Plaza Inn: Gluten-free pancakes

Misc. vendor stands: Cotton candy, Dole pineapple treats

Main St. Candy Shoppes: English toffee

Walt Disney World, Florida

Magic Kingdom

Pecos Bill’s: Sandwiches on gluten-free bun, gluten-free french fries

Tony’s Town Square: Rice pasta, gluten-free rolls, vegetarian side dishes

Pinocchio Village Haus: Gluten-free pizza, gluten-free baked french fries, yogurt

Cinderella’s Royal Table: Gluten-free versions of menu items

Columbia Harbor House: Gluten-free fried chicken, french fried, macaroni & cheese, and giant chocolate chip cookie

Cosmic Ray’s: Gluten-free chicken salad, chocolate chip cookies

Crystal Palace: Gluten-free pancakes, tapioca dinner rolls

Disney Hollywood Studios

Hollywood & Vine: Buffet including some gluten-free options

ABC Commissary: Chicken Cordon Bleu on gluten-free bun

Backlot Express: Grilled chicken salad, fruit bowl

Epcot

Tangierine Cafe: Morrocan cuisine, gluten-free buns and hummus

Le Cellier: NY Strip Steak, Kansas City Strip Steak, GF mashed potatoes, gluten-free rolls, and Crème Brulee

Garden Grill: Separately prepared gluten-free versions of regular menu items, such as meat & potatoes, salad, and warm gluten-free rolls

Cantina de San Angel: Chicken tacos in GF corn tortillas

Animal Kingdom

Flame Tree BBQ: Beef ribs, chicken and gluten-free baked beans.  GF brownie for dessert

Read more about gluten-free living:

15 Gluten-Free Glitterati, from Aniston to Zooey

Celiac Disease and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

6 Great Diets for Autistic Children

Can a Gluten-Free Diet Ease Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

Sources:

The Disney Food Blog

Gluten-free in Disneyland

Gluten Free Vegetarian Adventures at Disneyland

Gluten Free Dining Guest Experiences

What foods should I eat…or avoid if I have IBD? Here are some proper nutrition tips for ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disorder (IBD) that creates painful ulcers in the large intestinal tract and the rectum.  One of the main causes of ulcerative colitis is poor digestion.  

Sufferers of ulcerative colitis experience symptoms such as:

• Chronic diarrhea
• Inflammation of the colon
• Stomach cramping
• Nausea
• Excess weight loss
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Vitamin B12 deficiency

  (Read more about preventing vitamin B12 deficiency here: B12 Deficiency: Don’t Ignore the Symptoms)

Some good rules of thumb

While diet doesn’t cause ulcerative colitis, it does affect chronic pain symptoms that are associated with IBD. 

Below are some helpful food preparation tips for eating with ulcerative colitis:

• Cook vegetables well.  Raw or partially cooked vegetables are difficult for ulcerative colitis patients to digest completely.
• Cut your food into small pieces that are easy to masticate thoroughly.
• Avoid very small food morsels, such as corn kernels and peas; swallowing tiny bits of food without chewing them properly creates stomach upset, such as cramping and diarrhea.
• If you experience any setbacks, it’s a good idea to restrict high fiber food items, such as whole wheat breads, legumes, and cereals, at least until your diarrhea has subsided.

Ten foods to avoid if you have ulcerative colitis:

Caffeine

Caffeine not only draws water out of our system, contributing to dehydration, but it also triggers bowel movements. 

If you have ulcerative colitis or any other type of IBD, then caffeinated teas, coffee, and chocolate could wreak havoc on your digestive system, in addition to robbing your body of much-needed fluids. 

Try sipping on something more tummy-friendly, such as comforting herbal tea and carob chip cookies.  

Trouble staying awake?  Read:  Boost Energy Now! 20 Practical Tips for Fighting Fatigue

Bubbly Beverages

Carbonated drinks are refreshing, but they are full of tiny air bubbles.  Swallowing excess amounts of air causes flatulence and irritates the stomach linings of chronic colitis patients.  If you cannot resist the lure of an icy cola on a hot day, then sip slowly.  Nix the straw, as it will only make you swallow even more air.

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages act as stimulants, and may aggravate the intestines.  However, not all alcoholic drinks are cut from the same cloth, so to speak.  White wines go down easier than red wines.  Avoid beer and mixed drinks that often cause diarrhea. B12 and Alcohol Consumption

Milk Products

Contrary to popular belief, there is no direct correlation between lactose intolerance and IBD, though individuals with irritable bowels might have a slight sensitivity to milk sugar. 

If you have colitis, then your best option is to cut back on dairy whenever possible.  A pat of butter on some low-fiber toast or a bit of milk in your coffee is okay, but don’t get into the habit of drinking large amounts of cow’s milk. 

Opt instead for other calcium-rich foods such canned salmon (bone-in), collard greens, and fortified low-pulp orange juice.  

Addicted to ice cream?  Who isn’t?  Try out one of these  10 Most Tempting Vegan Ice Cream Recipes.

Beans

Unless your body is accustomed to digesting beans and legumes, then you should proceed with caution. 

For many of us, beans such as garbanzos and pintos are difficult to digest and cause uncomfortable bloating and gas. 

That doesn’t mean you should cross three-bean salad or minestrone off your list, though, as beans are rich in protein and vitamin B12. 

Some methods of cooking beans produce less gas, and chewing thoroughly helps to aid digestion.  If you buy canned beans, rinse well to remove sugars, and experiment with pureed bean recipes, such as hummus or low-fat bean dip.

Stringy Veggies

Some vegetables are hard for IBD patients to absorb, and fibrous veggies such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, onions, and celery are high on that list.  Focus on the have’s instead of the have-not’s.  You can have delicious, vegetarian side dishes without the accompanying tummy aches.  Some yummy green-light veggies include roasted cauliflower, carrot pennies, and baked potatoes.

Seeds, Skins, and Pellets

Certain foods irritate the lining of the intestines as they shove their way through our digestive system.  These include:

• Fruit seeds, such as those found in strawberries, figs, and melon
• Sunflower or pumpkin seeds
• Dried fruits
• Fruit skins, such as cranberries, blueberries and persimmon
• Spongy pithy foods, such as mushrooms, citrus rinds, and orange marmalade
• Fruity pellets, such as corn and pomegranate

Fatty Foods

Oil is not absorbed well in colitis patients, so avoid high-fat meals and condiments.  These include:

• Rich sauces, such as Alfredo sauce and other cheesy toppings
• French fries, and other fried foods
• Fatty meats, such as steaks, ribs and hot dogs
• Condiments such as mayonnaise, melted butter, and rich salad dressings

Nuts

Small nut pieces are hard for the body to digest completely, and may irritate the stomach. 

Colitis patients should avoid treats containing roasted peanuts, cashews, or raw almonds.  Ground nuts and seeds are fine, though. 

Small amounts of creamy peanut butter, all-natural almond butter, or tahini are great sources of healthy fats.

Whole Herbs and Spices

If you suffer from Inflammatory Bowel Disorder, that doesn’t mean that you have to suffer from a diet of bland, tasteless foods as well.  Take advantage of the many pungent, sweet, and tangy herbs and spices that are available, but remember to grind them well. 

If you buy dried seasonings, make sure that seedy spices such as cumin, pepper, and nutmeg have been ground to a fine meal.  Chop up fresh herbs, such as dill, basil, and rosemary, into small pieces before adding them to casseroles, roasts, or sauces.

Read more about Crohn’s and colitis:

101 Helpful Sites for Kids ‘n Teens with Crohn’s (and their Parents)

On the Run with Crohn’s? 6 Ways to Ease Public Restroom Anxiety

“I’ve heard of the X Factor and Fear Factor…But what’s Intrinsic Factor?”

15 Steps to Better Digestion

Sources:

Foods to Avoid If You Have Ulcerative Colitis- Health.com

Diet in Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis Diet Plan: Best and Worst Foods

Don’t put up with pain- Get a grip! Here are some handy household gadgets that help chronic pain sufferers.

Whether you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis or another kind of chronic pain, you appreciate all the help you can get- anything to make life’s daily chores a bit easier on your aching knuckles, neck, and back.  Some of life’s greatest treasures are everyday gadgets that help us open jars, cans, and bottles without pain.  Does reaching over your head to grab a can of tomatoes make you whimper with pain?  We’ve got a solution for that, along with many other useful pain management tools.

Below are 15 household tools which will help you get the job done without pain:

#1  Airobic Quill Mouse

Stop clenching your computer mouse in an unnatural position.  The Airobic Quill mouse is ergonomically designed to reduce tension, ease pain, and prevent carpal tunnel syndrome.  $87.49. Free shipping.  http://www.thehumansolution.com

#2  Ergonomic Arm Support

Bad posture is one of the greatest sources of chronic pain.  The Ergonomic Arm Support keeps your arm in a relaxed position while clicking away on the internet and attaches easily to your office chair.  $34.95.  http://www.ergo-items.com

#3 PikStik Pro – Pik Stik All Purpose Reach/Grabber 48″ Orange

This snappy grabby will help you reach any object in sight…and a few that are out of sight!  Use it to snag packaged goods off the grocery shelf, to retrieve dropped items, or to root around an overhead kitchen cabinet. Excellent for individuals undergoing chronic pain treatment.  $19.86.  http://www.egeneralmedical.com

#4 Oxo Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener

Just as the name implies, this rubber-handled can opener let you get a good grip for easier handling.  The Oxo Smooth Edge can opener leaves a nice smooth edge while cutting, so you won’t have to worry about nicking your fingers later.  All-in-all, it’s a pain-free kitchen device!  $19.99.  http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com

#5 Black & Decker Lids-Off Jar Opener

Amazon customers rave over the way the Black & Decker Lids-Off Jar Opener has taken the strain and effort out of opening stubborn jar covers.  With the simple ease of pressing a button you can open even the heaviest of pickle jars up to 4 ½ “diameter and 8” in height.  $29.99.  http://www.amazon.com/

#6 Easi-Twist Jar Opener

Arthritis and chronic pain sufferers can easily open a variety of different-sized jars with this rubber-lined tool.  Available in blue or black.  $6.99.  http://www.containerstore.com

#7 Jokari 3 in 1 Beverage Opener

Quickly and painlessly, snap open a can of soda.  Even 2-liter bottles of soda and glass beer bottles are not match for the Jokari 3 in 1 opener.  For $3.99, you can get one for every room of the house. http://www.organize.com

#8 Lid Punch™

Sometimes, getting a jar open is just a matter of releasing the vacuum seal.  This little device makes a tiny, pinpoint hole in the jar lid, thus releasing pressure and allowing you to open it smoothly.  Included are magnetic hole stoppers.  $14.99.  http://www.harrietcarter.com

#9 Tweezerman Expert Touch Gel Grip Tweezer

Tweezerman is the leading manufacturer of quality personal care implements, including their well-loved precision tweezers.  Therefore, it comes as no surprise that they developed this wide-handled soft-grip set of tweezers for arthritic individuals and others with chronic pain syndrome.  $22.00.  http://www.tweezerman.com

#10 Easy-Grip Fingernail Clippers

The wide ergonomically designed handles make it easier for arthritis pain sufferers to utilize the Easy-Grip Fingernail clippers.  $18.95.  http://www.solutions.com

#11 Toilet Tissue Aid

Arthritis patients who have a limited range of motion will appreciate this 15 ¾ inch personal wand.  Featuring a soft rubber handle and a quick-release button for disposal of bathroom tissue or cleansing wipes, the toilet tissue aid allows you full discretion.  $12.98.  http://www.harrietcarter.com

#12 Uplift PS1000 Power Seat

When you have to get up from that comfortable chair, at least you can do it painlessly and without stressing your lower back.  The Uplift Power Seat supports 100% of your weight, up to 300 pounds.  For indoor use, adjacent to a power source.  $219.95.  http://www.comforthouse.com

#13 Playing Card Holder Fan

Keep your poker face and give your hands a break; the Playing Card Holder lets you play bridge, poker, or Go Fish without causing any unnecessary strain on your knuckles.  Get one for each of your mates, as well!  $5.95.  http://www.activeforever.com

#14 Steady Write Pen

The triangular shape of this writing aid allows for a more ergonomically friendly writing experience.  $8.00  http://www.allegromedical.com

#15 Button Aid With Grey Grip

Do you have difficulty opening and closing small buttons? Chronic pain treatment professionals suggest using a thick-handled button tool, which allows you the freedom to dress independently.  The Button Aid is beneficial for individuals with neck pain, weak hand muscles, sore joints, and poor motor development.  $5.95.  http://www.colonialmedical.com

For more information on treating chronic pain or fibromyalgia, please read:

100 Best Sites for Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Information

Suffering from Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue? B12 to the Rescue!

Why More Fibromyalgia Patients are Taking Tai Chi

How to Tell if Chronic Pain is Fibromyalgia: 18 Pressure Points

Considering Banding? Don’t Bypass This…More and more of the morbidly obese are turning to weight loss surgery, such as gastric bypass, as a quick-fix solution to weight loss.  But is the grass always greener after bariatric surgery?

As with any invasive surgery, bariatric surgery carries many risks, some of which can be life threatening.  Complications may arise during the operation, or even years later. Roughly, 5% of bariatric surgery patients experience complications post operation.  In addition, what you assumed would be a one-time stint on the operating table might culminate into a series of necessary follow-up procedures, such as gall bladder removal or treatment for twisted bowels.

Anorexic British Teen Regrets Gastric Bypass Surgery

Below is a list of complications that sometimes occur after weight loss surgery:

• Respiratory disorders, such as sleep apnea or other breathing difficulties may arise.
• Leaky gut, leaking of fluids from the intestines or stomach, may require additional surgery.
• Infections are a risk with any surgery.
• Blood clots are a common complication during surgery that could result in stroke.  Patients often wear tight diabetic socks during surgery to avoid developing blood clots.
• Bowel obstructions caused by thick scar tissue is rare, but still possible with abdominal surgeries.
• Ulcers are another side effect that results from usage of NSAID medication such as ibuprofen.
• Gallstones occur after 1/3 of all gastric bypass surgeries.  They are extremely painful, and the only way to treat them is to have the gall bladder removed.
• Kidney stones are highly correlated with gastric bypass surgery.
• Twisted bowels or internal hernias occur when intestines become dislodged during or after surgery.  It is rare, but deadly: the chances of survival are 60%.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency often results when bariatric surgery patients neglect to supplement with vitamin B12.  Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include chronic fatigue, depression, numbness, or tingling in hands and feet, altered taste perception, and brain fog, among many others.

Read more about avoiding vitamin B12 deficiency:

B12 Deficiency: Don’t Ignore the Symptoms

50 Bariatric Blogs

1. Adventures of Gastric Girl “A little look into my life.. Finding myself after having gastric bypass surgery, and the ups and downs along the way.”
2. Alison’s banded adventures “I’m a British 38 year old mother of 2. I had lapband surgery on the 25th of March 2010.”
3. Autumn’s Yummy Treats & Good Eats!!! “Hi, I’m Autumn. All of my life I have struggled w/ my weight...”
4. Baby Belly Bulge Battles and Breastfeeding “TwoThirtyTwo.. my journey down the scale.”
5. Band-Aid Baby! “Excited about accomplishing the one goal that has alluded me my entire life- being fit and feeling great about my body!!”
6. Band Sweet Band “I’m married to Marc, who is also banded and a huge source of support.”
7. Bari Bits: Reflections of a WLS Patient “Reflections of a Weight Loss Surgery Patient.”
8. Bariatric After Life “Motivation, Inspiration & Education for Life After Weight Loss Surgery.”
9. Bariatric Foodie “Cooking Big on a Small Scale.” Includes delicious recipes for WLS patients.
10. Bariatric Girl “Telling the Positive Side of Weight Loss Surgery.”
11. Big Bottom Blogger “This is a blog about reducing my eco buttprint on the world. Enjoy, and welcome.”
12. Big Girl in a Big World…my journey as a bandster! “Hope you enjoy following me on my journey through life and my lap band, named Lexi.”
13. The Bypassed Life “An honest account of life after bariatric surgery.”
14. Candyland to Bandyland “Women are Angels…And when someone breaks their wings, They simply continue to fly….on a broomstick…They are flexible like that…”
15. Carrie’s Gastric Bypass Journey “Follow me on a life changing journey. The gastric bypass surgery on March 20, 2006 will change my life forever…hopefully for the better. Follow me from fat and unhealthy to thin and fit.”
16. Chronicles from Band Land “One girl’s story of life with the lap band.”
17. Diminishing Dawn “This page begins with some general information and then turns into my story detailing every part of my surgery from start to finish.It covers the decision to go the WLS route, to how to apply for surgery to be paid through OHIP, to pre op, surgery and post op.”
18. Does this donut make my butt look big? “Progress is Sweet!”
19. Evolution of a Black Butterfly “I was banded November 16, 2010…here is my story.”
20. Former Fat Dudes “Life after WLS from a dude’s perspective.”
21. Gastric Bypass Truth “Some say gastric bypass is the “easy way out.” I beg to differ. There are many things I wish I had known before taking the plunge.”
22. Heather’s Lapband Journey “Hello, I’m Heather, I’m 25 years old and I live in Hollyweird, California. I got my lapband on December 13, 2010 and this is my weightloss journey.”
23. I’m with the Band “Hi, I’m Carmen a 35 year old chick. Fat all my life, got a little belt (aka lapband) around my stomach…”
24. Is this for real?!? “Welcome to the ramblings of my weight loss surgery and everyday life. Nothing is ever boring around here!”
25. Island Bandit “Pre-surgery I lost @45lbs and I count that in my total because I truly believe the band is just one tool in the new arsenal I’ve been given.”
26. Jen’s Lap Band Journey “Celebrating 2 years & 90 pounds lost! {so far}”
27. Journey to a Healthier Me “I am changing my life for the better! Take a peek into my journey to better overall health.”
28. Journey to a New Me “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
29. Just Me and My Band “THIS IS MY JOURNEY FROM BEING OBESE TO HEALTHY AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN! I WAS BANDED ON MAY 10TH AND THIS IS MY STORY!”
30. Lap Band Gal “If hunger isn’t the problem, then eating isn’t the solution.”
31. Life of a (hopeful) loser… “32 years old and on an amazing journey to better my health with a little help from a lapband.”
32. LISA LOST AND FOUND! “PLEASE JOIN ME ON MY WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY. I HOPE TO INSPIRE OTHERS AS I TAKE THIS MINI GASTRIC BYPASS JOURNEY. HOPEFULLY I WILL LOSE THE WEIGHT AND FIND THE REAL ME.”
33. Living After WLS Blog “Your place to blossom after weight loss surgery.”
34. Living Well / Eating Well after VSG “Tips and tricks, recipes, and my journey following Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery.”
35. Losing Weight and Changing Habits “How did I wake up one day to find myself at 286 pounds and completely miserable in my own body? It happened, I can’t blame anyone but me…”
36. Miles To Go “This blog is named “Miles To Go” in honor of my surgeon, Dr. David Miles. I hope this conveys my gratitude to Dr. Miles and his staff at Miles Surgical for giving me the opportunity to have many more ‘miles to go’.”
37. On the Bandwagon “Strategies for Success with the Adjustable Gastric Band”
38. Ronnie’s Bandumentary “Feel free to follow me down the rabbit hole, just be sure to leave your sanity (and shoes) at the door.”
39. Shrinking Susy… “I had the MGB in Feb. 2007. I lost 147 pounds. Now I’m a fat girl living in a skinny body and a whole lots more than weight has been lifted from my life. This is my story, read away…”
40. Shrinking Violet “Keep a diary, and someday, it’ll keep you.” Mae West
41. something something something Fat Chick “come on along…follow me on my journey from fatty to…just kinda chubby maybe…”
42. Stressed spelled backwards is desserts… ?! “I’m a 23 year old college student. I was happily banded on April 7, 2010. It’s the BEST thing I’ve ever done for myself. This journey is rocky, but I love every bit of it!”
43. Teresa Journeys Home “Taking the Road Less Traveled”
44. Trying to stay Skinny in Texas “A blog about my journey after lap band surgery and my quest to keep the weight off . As well as everything life throws at me in between!”
45. That Fat Chick “This blog has chronicled my journey from when I first made the decision to have weight loss surgery — back in 2008 — to when I had it — 2009 — and how my weight and life have changed since then.”
46. The Weight is Over “The skinny girl inside of me is dying to get out and have fun…..”
47. The Weight Loss Rollercoaster “The Ride is Over”
48. Weight Lost, Hope Gained…by Emily “Sharing the Hope found after WLS!”
49. Who Hid the Donuts? “MY JOURNEY FROM FAT TO FAB AFTER LAP-BAND SURGERY”
50. The World according to Eggface ” RECIPES & RAMBLING OF A FORMER FAT CHICK”

Also read:

10 Mistakes Gastric Bypass Patients Often Make

Study: Gastric Bypass as a Cure for Diabetes?

Teens and Weight Loss Surgery: Worth the Risk?

Here are some sensational stories of autistic children who found solace through animal therapy. Have you hugged your Horse today?

Meet Rowan.  Diagnosed with autism at the age of two, Rowan used to have 12 toddler temper tantrums per day.  But unlike typical temper tantrums experienced by non-autistic kids, these fits were explosive and potentially harmful.  It was all his parents, Rupert and Kristin Isaacson, could do to keep him from injuring himself: stay calm, keep him secure and hope.

Mama horse “adopts” boy

Then, an amazing thing happened.  While on a walk with his dad, Rowan came across a small group of horses who were grazing outside their property in Elgin, Texas.  Rowan impetuously ran towards them and flung himself on the ground underneath their bodies, a move that could have resulted in debilitating injuries or death.  Then, the old mare of the pack, Betsy, casually sauntered over and, using her muzzle, gently “elbowed” all the horses away from the small boy.

On the backs of horses

It became clear to Rupert, a long-time horse trainer, that Betsy might be the answer to their prayers.  He began taking Rowan on horseback rides around the area, and found that the horses’ swaying canter had a relaxing, therapeutic effect on Rowan.  The boy who used to have meltdowns every hour of the day at home became content and focused on the back of a horse.  Incorporating applied behavioral analysis in their homeschooling program, Rupert and his wife cured their son of his symptoms of autism, if not the disability itself.  Today, their Horse Boy Foundation exists to help low-income families affected by autistic spectrum disorder receive horse therapy.

Equine Therapy and Autism: They’re Not Just Horsing Around

The Isaacson’s story is just one example of many families who successfully utilized animal therapy in treating their children with autism.

Animals provide autistic children with unconditional love

Recently, a Santa Ana, California judge awarded permission for Caleb Ciriacks, a first-grade autistic boy, to take his service dog, a golden retriever named Eddy, to school next semester when he begins second grade.

Many other such stories abound, like the one about Richard, the autistic son of a widower, who found his words through cat therapy.  Or the 15-year old autistic kids, twins in Doncaster, U.K., who learned how to cope with their Asperger’s syndrome by training bunny rabbits for pet shows.

A recent report by CBS News documented a growing trend in animal-assisted therapy involving the use of elephants to help autistic children in Thailand.

Learn about programs that offer pet-assisted therapy in your area.

Visit Alternative Solutions in Long Term Care for a list of state by state animal assisted programs.

Also, read:

Autism, B12 and Your Child

6 Great Diets for Autistic Children

New Music Video Game Engages Autistic Children

Support for Parents of Autistic Children

Sources:

Dad: Horse Riding Helped His Son With Autism – ABC News

Horse Boy Foundation

Autistic boy: School must let autistic boy may take service dog to class, judge rules – latimes.com

Cat Therapy for Autistic Children

Autistic Kids Try Unusual Therapy — Fluffy Bunnies

Elephants help autistic children in Thailand- CBS News

Looking for advice on parenting children with Crohn’s disease? Here are some great blogs, forums and recipe sites for IBD sufferers.

Crohn’s Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in your digestive system.  Symptoms of Crohn’s disease are painful, embarrassing and sometimes life-threatening:

• Severe stomach cramps
• Chronic watery diarrhea
• Bloody stools
• Ulcer
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Arthritis
• Fatigue
• Delayed growth
• Vitamin B12 deficiency

Crohn’s Disease: What You Can Do about it Now

One of the best ways to treat IBD is to follow a diet plan that alleviates most of the symptoms. There are many food ingredients that are associated with increased Crohn’s disease symptoms: dairy, gluten, sugar, and grains, for example.

The gluten-free diet excludes all food items that contain gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, rye, oats and others.

The casein-free diet eliminates the specific protein that occurs naturally in milk, while the dairy-free diet rules out all dairy products as a whole.

The  Specific Carbohydrate Diet eliminates certain carbohydrates and encourages eating more meat, nuts, eggs, and vegetables. The Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS) diet involves reducing complex carbohydrates, processed foods, gluten, and sugar.

6 Great Diets for Autistic Children

Below is a list of 101 helpful sites and blogs for adults, teens and children with Crohn’s disease and colitis.

Casein-Free CF

Dairy-Free  DF

Gluten-Free  GF

Gut and Psychology Syndrome GAP

Specific Carbohydrate Diet SCD

Sugar-Free  SF

1. Adventures of a Gluten Free Mom GF
2. Avoiding Milk Protein CF
3. Beths Blog SCD
4. Breaking the Vicious Cycle SCD
5. The Bright Side of Crohn’s
6. Building a Crohn’s Community
7. CCFA of America
8. CDSN – The Crohn’s Disease Support Network
9. Children’s Digestive Health and Nutrition Foundation (CDHNF)
10. A Chronic Dose
11. THE CHRONICLES OF CRAP
12. The Colitis Experience
13. ComfyTummy SCD
14. Cooking for Celiacs, Colitis, Crohn’s and IBS
15. Crohn’s and Colitis UK
16. Crohn’s Boy
17. Crohn’s/Colitis Foundation of Canada
18. Crohns Disease and my Experience
19. Crohn’s Disease Center (WebMD)
20. Crohns Disease Forum
21. Crohn’s disease: Lifestyle and home remedies (MayoClinic)
22. Crohn’s Disease/Ulcerative Colitis Mommies Baby Center
23. Crohn’s/IBD News
24. Crohn’s Lives With Me
25. Crohn’s Mommy
26. Crohn’s On Campus — A Survival Guide For The College Student With Crohn’s Disease
27. Dairy Free Betty DF
28. Dairy Free “Tried and True” DF
29. The Dietary Adventures of Jilluck SCD
30. The Digestion Blog
31. Eat Wheat-Free, Dairy-Free, & Low Sugar DF–GF
32. Elana’s Pantry GF
33. Engaged: A Blog on the Bog
34. Farty Girl
35. A Foodie’s Fall from Grace SCD
36. GAPS Diet GAP
37. GAPS Guide GAP
38. Get Your Guts In Gear
39. The Gimpy Colon
40. Gluten-free girl GF
41. Gluten Free Global Community GF
42. Gluten-Free Goddess GF
43. The Gluten-Free Homemaker GF
44. Grain-Free Foodies GAP
45. The Gutsy Girl
46. Heal-Balance-Live SCD
47. Healingwell.com’s Crohn’s Page
48. How we can’t eat anything
49. IBD and Me Activity Book (PDF)
50. IBD in Our Home
51. IBD U – A site for older teens with IBD transitioning into college, work and adult healthcare
52. I Hate IBD
53. I Have UC – Ulcerative Colitis Community
54. In Sickness and In Health
55. Intense Intestines Blog
56. The Intestinal Disease Education and Awareness Society (IDEAS)
57. Irritable Bowel Blog
58. Jpouch Life: Stories of Colitis, Crohn’s, IBD, Ostomy, Ileostomy & J-Pouch Surgery from around the world
59. Jenni’s Guts
60. Journey Through Crohn’s
61. Kat’s Food Blog SCD
62. Kickin’ It with Crohn’s Disease
63. Kid Appeal
64. Know Your Gut
65. Let’s Talk Crohn’s and other GI Issues (Facebook)
66. LEXIE’S KITCHEN CF–GF
67. A Life of Sugar and Spice GF
68. A Life Without Ice Cream DF
69. Living with Chronic Illness
70. Living with Crohn’s Disease
71. Miss Dropsie DF–GF
72. Mrs Ed’s Research and Recipes SCD
73. My Crohn’s and Colitis Blog
74. My Crohn’s Disease
75. MyIBD.org
76. No more Crohn’s for me! SCD
77. Organically Autoimmune
78. PARA: Scientific Facts About Mycobacterium Paratuberculosis and Crohn’s Disease
79. Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease
80. Pecanbread web site SCD
81. The Perfect Health Diet
82. Pete Learns All About Crohns & Colitis Comic Book (PDF)
83. Ramble On SCD
84. Recipes for the Specific Carbohydrate Diet SCD
85. The SCD Girl SCD
86. SCD Lifestyle SCD
87. A Second life-Living with Crohn’s Disease
88. Semi Colon
89. Shaky Crohny Guy
90. She Let Them Eat Cake GF
91. So they say I have Crohn’s
92. The Spunky Coconut CF–GF–SF
93. Straight Into Bed Cakefree and Dried
94. Stronger than Crohn’s
95. Teens With Crohn’s Disease Website
96. UC and Crohn’s: A Site for Teens
97. The UK Lactose Intolerance Page DF
98. U.S. Food Safety Blog
99. Undercoverostomy
100. WANTED: Crohn’s End
101. Z’s Cup Of Tea GF–SCD

Also read:

On the Run with Crohn’s? 6 Ways to Ease Public Restroom Anxiety

Natural Treatments for the Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

Gut Bugs:Winning the Bacteria Battle

For many celebs, gluten-free dieting is not just about Celiac.

It’s a light, gentler diet: that’s what today’s celebrities have to say about gluten-free dieting, a food plan which eliminates all products which contain gluten, a protein which occurs naturally in wheat, rye and barley.

The gluten-free diet evolved as a treatment for celiac disease, a gastrointestinal disorder that affects 1 in 133 US citizens. It seems that today’s hottest entertainment A-listers have gluten intolerance; celebrities such as indie-star Zooey Deschanel and The View’s Elisabeth Hasselbeck have gone off gluten-rich breads, pastries and pasta in lieu of gluten-free specialty goods.

So, where do the rich and famous go to indulge in celiac-friendly treats? To BabyCakes, which has branches in Los Angeles, New York and Orlando, and specializes in baked goods that are free of refined sugar, gluten, casein, soy, wheat and animal products such as eggs and milk.

Don’t be a Glutton for Gluten

Here are 15 celebrities who have shared their experiences about gluten-free dieting:

1) Zooey Deschanel once guested on Bravo’s Top Chef Masters, demanding that contestants concoct a vegan gourmet meal for her that was also gluten-free and soy-free. Zooey has since given up the vegan lifestyle, but remains true to gluten-free living, given that she is allergic to the wheat protein.

2) Comedienne Jenny McCarthy believes that her son, Evan, developed autism from a rubella vaccine. She attributes his current well-being and decreased symptoms of autism to a gluten-free diet.  “We believe what helped Evan recover was starting a gluten-free, casein-free diet, vitamin supplementation, detox of metals, and antifungals for yeast overgrowth that plagued his intestines,” said the outspoken activist to CNN.com.

3) Gwyneth Paltrow published her favorite gluten-free recipes on her website, Goop.com.  Although she is not a sufferer of celiac disease or gluten allergy, Gwyneth claims that cutting gluten out of her life has helped her maintain a healthy weight.

4) The View‘s Elisabeth Hasselbeck spoke about her celiac disease and commitment to gluten-free living on Good Morning America, where she also pitched her cookbook, The G-Free Diet. When asked about her adjustment to what many consider a restrictive diet, she answered,  “You’re not deprived… You’re more energized.”

5) Jennifer Aniston owes her slim waistline to the “Baby-Food Diet,” the short-lived weight-loss plan consisting of small jars of pureed, gluten-free vegetables and fruits.

6) Keith Olbermann, host of Countdown, chose a gluten-free diet after being diagnosed with celiac disease.

7) Victoria Beckham is allergic to dairy, but also harbors a secret addiction to gluten-free chocolate cookies.

8) Rachel Weisz, star of 2010’s The Whistleblower eschews gluten because of her wheat intolerance.

9) Dana Delany of television’s Body of Proof declared that since she quit eating gluten products, she feels less “bloated and sluggish.” The former Desperate Housewives star, who was diagnosed as gluten-intolerant, told Prevention that she also skips meat, opting instead for fish, tofu and veggies.

10) Juliette Lewis has not come out of the closet as a celiac or gluten-intolerant patient, but it has been rumored that the upcoming Foreverland star favors non-glutinous noshes.

11) Chelsea Clinton’s gluten-free wedding cake was the talk of the town. Her 2010 New York wedding menu featured vegan gourmet main meals, gluten-free side dishes and grass-fed organic beef for the non-vegan guests.  Her father, former president Bill Clinton, has also had his flings with gluten-free treats.

12) Not to be outdone by Chelsea, Madonna served gluten-free brownies at her 52nd birthday bash.

13) Discovering he has a gluten protein allergy has been the best thing to happen to tennis star Novak Djokovic. Since swearing off pizza, pretzels and beer, the celebrated athlete has ruled the court.

14) Jennifer Esposito, multi-talented actress and star of TV’s Spin City and Samantha Who? has never felt better since she was informed she had celiac disease and proceeded to cut the gluten out of her diet.

15) Terence Stamp, who played Chancellor Valorum in Star Wars: Episode I, also joins the ranks of celebrities who have sworn off gluten products.

Read more about gluten-free dieting:

Celiac Disease and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

6 Great Diets for Autistic Children

Can a Gluten-Free Diet Ease Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

Resources:

http://www.celiac.com/

http://bit.ly/aOGw7L

http://bit.ly/dD47q9

http://bit.ly/jTvOlP

http://bit.ly/lgQP4l

http://bit.ly/9rfgO9

http://bit.ly/mqyi6w

http://on.today.com/lceH5j

http://on.wsj.com/kFlwpX

Crohn’s disease is hard to deal with in the privacy of your own home, but on the road, it can be painful and devastating.

 

 

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s is a gastrointestinal disorder that causes inflammation of the bowels.

Scientists don’t know the exact cause of Crohn’s disease, only that it occurs when the immune system malfunctions.  

The symptoms of Crohn’s disease are:

• Severe stomach cramping
• Chronic diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Mouth ulcers

Natural Treatments for the Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

How does Crohn’s affect your daily life?

Crohn’s doesn’t leave much room for social anxiety as far as public restrooms are concerned; chronic Crohn’s disease patients rely on these “safety zones” to get them out of embarrassing predicaments while traveling or just shopping for clothes. But if you have anxiety about using a mall restroom, for example, then you’re likely to avoid leaving the house at all.  Don’t let awkwardness or nervousness about using public restroom facilities keep you from enjoying life.

Here are 6 coping mechanisms for overcoming public bathroom anxiety:

1) Check for supplies. Before you lock the door, make sure that there are enough toilet paper rolls and seat protectors in your stall. This sounds obvious, but imagine how embarrassed you’d feel if you had to beg a total stranger for supplies after the fact.

2) Stall for time. While in the bathroom stall, preoccupy yourself with rummaging through your messenger bag or purse, covering the toilet seat, or examining your shopping bags until you have enough privacy or until the noise level increases. Once you hear other occupants leave, you will probably feel more at ease.

3) Always opt for the private stall, as opposed to the open urinals. Resist the temptation to use the handicapped station, which is really reserved for people in wheelchairs.

4) Keep an mp3 player, such as an iPod, in your purse or pants pocket. Nobody will think anything amiss if you play a little music to mask background noise.

5) Plug your ears and close your eyes to create the illusion of being in a quiet, private restroom, and your nerves will react accordingly.

6) Pretend you’re at ease, even if you feel differently. Sometimes, just putting on an outward display of self-assurance will make you feel more self-assured on the inside, as well. Breathe slowly, and smile or hum while checking yourself in the mirror.  Act cool and confident, and everybody around you will assume that you are.

Read more about gastrointestinal disorders:

Gut Bugs:Winning the Bacteria Battle

Boost Energy Now! 20 Practical Tips for Fighting Fatigue

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001295/

http://www.ehow.com/how_2257918_overcome-public-restroom-embarrassment.html

We all know that following a healthy vitamin-rich diet is great for your cardio health, immune system health and a healthy complexion. But what about brain health? Here are 10 foods that make you smarter!

Foods that restore mental clarity, improve memory and maintain a healthy nervous system often contain high doses of vitamin B12.

Conversely, if you don’t get enough vitamin B12, you may start to feel sluggish, confused, and forgetful. Several studies have linked vitamin B12 deficiency with short-term memory loss, “brain fog” and age-related dementia.

Below is a list of the top 10 brain foods:

1) Oysters:

Shellfish are excellent brain foods, and some of the richest sources of vitamin B12. Oysters also contain zinc and iron, two ingredients that help with attention and memory retention. Besides oysters, other good B12-rich shellfish delicacies are shrimp, mussels and crab. 

Vitamin B12 for Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails

2) Seafood:

If you don’t enjoy shellfish, you might find fresh fish fillets more to your liking, which are also rich sources of brain-boosting vitamin B12 and Omega-3 fatty acids. The best catches for B12 are salmon, tuna and herring. 

B12 Deficiency can really Get on your Nerves

3) Eggs:

Though eggs have cholesterol, they are also good sources of vitamin B12. Having an egg or two for breakfast will keep your doctor happy and help you maintain healthy brain mass.

Don’t be tempted to throw out the egg yolks, either; they contain choline, an essential ingredient for producing healthy brain cells.  

Avoiding Vitamin B12 Deficiency while Breast Feeding

4) Leafy greens:

Dark green salads such as spinach and cabbage are high in vitamin B6, folate and iron, all of which are essential for producing red blood cells, supporting cardiovascular health, and maintaining cognitive integrity. 

8 Rockin’ Meatless Grill Recipes for Memorial’s Day

5) Curry:

Indian curries contain turmeric, a bright yellow spice that owes its antioxidant properties to curcumin.

Scientists believe that turmeric spices are healthful for the brain, heart, and insulin response.

Feed your Brain Something You’ll never Forget

6)  Berries:

Black, red and blue-skinned berries are powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals and maintain a healthy response to inflammation.

Additionally, berries such as raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and strawberries contain flavonoids, an ingredient that enhances memory skills.

7) Nuts and seeds:

Whole, raw, unprocessed nuts and seeds contain essential nutrients such as Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, folate, vitamin E, and vitamin B6; these are excellent for cognitive functioning, boosting memory and balancing the mood.

Eaten in moderation, all species of nuts and seeds are healthful, such as almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds and sunflower seeds.  

6 Great Diets for Autistic Children

8) Tea:

The ancient Chinese have always held that sipping steaming mugs of green or black tea throughout the day improves mental clarity and fights fatigue. Today, we attribute the benefits of tea leaves to catechins, a chemical which is valued for its ability to support brain functioning. 

10 Most Tempting Vegan Ice Cream Recipes

9) Whole grains:

Wheat germ, bran, brown rice, oats and barley are all high in folate, which help the brain by improving blood flow. They are also high in vitamin B6, which is also helpful for maintaining memory retention in people with dementia. B12 Deficiency: Don’t Ignore the Symptoms

10) Cocoa:

Ground cocoa is high in antioxidants, which are essential for brain health. Avoid fatty milk chocolate in favor of extra dark, 99% cocoa-rich bars, such as Lindt Excellence.

Also read:

Boost Energy Now! 20 Practical Tips for Fighting Fatigue

Sources:

http://www.toptenz.net/top-10-foods-for-brain-health.php

If you frequently feel fatigued, zapped of energy, then you might benefit from a new exercise program, a new hobby, or a vitamin regimen!  Sometimes, chronic fatigue symptoms are related to diet.

Vitamin B12 deficiency makes you feel sluggish, confused and depressed. Often, you feel like you are in a fog, or fibro fog, as it’s called when you also have fibromyalgia, an illness that sometimes correlates with vitamin B12 deficiency.

Don’t let fatigue get in the way of work, school or your social life. More importantly, don’t fall into the habit of jolting yourself awake with caffeine, energy drinks or sugary snacks. You might get a quick high, a temporary one at that, but the resulting drop in energy will leave you more tired than you were before.

Below is a list of suggestions which have been compiled from Leo Babauta’s popular blog Zen Habits, along with a few other tidbits from other health-related sites:

1 Sing, sing a song… Don’t be shy about belting it out, whether in the car, in the break room or while washing the dishes!

2 Have a power smoothie. Fix yourself a protein-rich smoothie, complete with yogurt, frozen fruit, flax seeds and soy ice cream. 10 Most Tempting Vegan Ice Cream Recipes

3 Let the sun shine in. Our bodies are attuned to sunlight, as well as the absence of it. Dark lighting tells our brain that it’s time to rest and leaves us feeling sluggish. Indoor lighting, sunshine and even bright colors wake up our senses and keep us energized.

4 Walk around the block…and take your dog with you. If you don’t have time to run to the gym, then just run around the block! If you have a canine friend, grab the leash and bring him along. Caring for pets increases energy and reduces stress. Assuming you’re not allergic, of course.

5 Have a quick snooze, only avoid the bed. Rest sitting upright in a comfortable position, and you’re less likely to oversleep and wake up groggy and headache-y.

6 Chin up! Look on the bright side, and try not to focus on all the things in your life you wish were different. Even if you’re trying to lose weight, find a better job, or waiting for a test result, give yourself permission to be happy now.

7 Don’t oversleep. Set your alarm clock so that you wake up at the same time every day, regardless of  whether you’re going to work or taking the day off. (Resist the urge to press the snooze button!) Irregular sleep patterns leave you feeling drowsy all day long.
8 Eat smaller meals. Heavy meals leave us feeling lethargic and full (flashback to last Thanksgiving). Instead, determine how many calories you plan on consuming in one day, and divide that number into 6 light vitamin-rich mini-meals.
9 Take a break from the rat race. Been sitting at your desk for hours? Get up, stretch your legs, and go to the water cooler for a few minutes. Another bright idea: instead of taking a one-week vacation, ask your boss about taking two or three long weekends throughout the year?

10 Drink your water. Speaking of the water cooler, bring a sports bottle with you, and fill it up when nobody’s looking. Allowing yourself to become dehydrated is one of the biggest sources of fatigue.

11 Lose weight. As if you needed another reason to worry about your weight: extra poundage is a burden on our health, energy levels and mental outlook. Next time you’re at the supermarket, pick up a 5-lb. or 10-lb. bag of flour, and imagine yourself losing…or gaining an equivalent amount of body fat. Let’s Move: Michelle Obama Moving On Up the Wal-Mart Aisles

12 Have a fruit salad…and remember the berries! Apples and berries are great sources of natural sugar that won’t weigh you down or leave you feeling exhausted later. Blue, purple and red berries also contain anthocyanins, which are antioxidants known to increase energy.

13 Take your B vitamins. B complex vitamins, and particularly vitamin B12, are known to increase energy, mental clarity and boost the immune system. Foods which contain plenty of vitamin B12 are protein foods, such as meat, dairy, eggs and fish. Vegans or vegetarians are recommended to take B12 supplements in order to avoid getting B12 deficiency. 6 Must-Eat Foods for Die-Hard Vegans

14 Nix energy drinks. Energy drinks are no better for you than any other caffeinated beverages, though their manufacturers would have you believe otherwise. Avoid using energy drinks before a workout, and opt instead for a protein smoothie or a cool drink of water.

15 Jump in the shower. Nothing refreshes your senses more than a brisk power shower. Stuck at work? Go to the restroom and slap some cold water on your face for a quick pick-me-up.
16 Trade coffee for black tea. Researchers have proven what the ancient Chinese have known for centuries: that drinking small cups of black coffee throughout the day relieves stress and rejuvenates your body and mind.
17 Keep it wholly. Cut out white flour, white sugar and white rice, along with all other processed foods; they only sit in your gut for hours and spread infection, allergic reactions and fatigue. Opt instead for whole oats, brown rice, lentils and natural sweeteners like stevia and agave nectar. Can a Gluten-Free Diet Ease Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?
18 Have a breath mint. Peppermint is used by aromatherapists to awaken the mind and boost energy.  Don’t have access to a health food store that sells essential oils? Stop by a drug store and pick up a peck of peppermint gum.

19 Unload. Feeling depressed? It might help to call up a friend that you haven’t heard from in a while, send an email to a close relative or chat with a colleague. If it’s something too personal to share with close friends, then schedule an appointment with a social worker.

20 Laugh it up! It’s hard to feel tired, depressed or down-in-the-dumps when there’s a smile on your face. Think of something funny you read recently, or check out today’s comics. Even a quick you-tube search for “comedy” is likely to result in something that will lift up your spirits.

Here are some more good tips on avoiding chronic fatigue, B12 deficiency and fibromyalgia:

7 Reasons You Have Brain Fog…And What to do About It

100 Best Sites for Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Information

Suffering from Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue? B12 to the Rescue!

Happy Ten Billionth, iTunes: Apple’s 10 Best Health and Medical Apps

Sources:

http://zenhabits.net/55-ways-to-get-more-energy/

http://noedb.org/library/features/50_ways_to_boost_your_energy_without_caffeine

http://women.webmd.com/features/10-energy-boosters?page=2