Gluten-Free Me

Ah, yes.

The importance of gluten-free cosmetics.

One of the neon flashing arrows that pointed me towards the consideration of Celiac Disease was my shampoo. I could not figure out why washing my hair resulted in extreme nausea and digestive problems. After reading over the ingredients, guess what I found- Hydrolyzed Wheat Starch.

Second neon flashing arrow: Every time I ate Honey Nut Cheerios I would get the same feeling, only much, much worse.

I believe it is equally important for men and women to have gluten-free cosmetics. Many people will disagree, but I encourage you to do some research, and come to your own conclusion based on your comfort level.

Here are my thoughts:

I do understand that it has been scientifically proven that gluten can not be absorbed through the skin. Question: Is the reaction in our small intestine the only result of Celiac Disease? When I searched deeper, I discovered Dr. Kenneth Fine, M.D. of EnteroLab, states that, "Gluten sensitivity is a systemic immune reaction to gluten anywhere in the body, not just that entering the body via the gut. Therefore, topically applied lotions, creams, shampoos, etc. containing gluten would indeed provide a source of gluten to the body, and we therefore recommend all such products be discontinued for optimal health."

Cosmetics such as lipstick, toothpaste, mouthwash etc. are obvious "no nos" if they contain gluten. But what about shampoo, make up, and lotion?

Once I realized it was my shampoo that was making me so sick (most likely because I was getting it in my mouth), I ditched it immediately and began using Dove. Not only was a feeling better, but my chronic dandruff and extreme greasyness disappeared (gross I know). My hair used to get so greasy I would literally have to wash it twice a day. I can now go a couple days without washing it, and you would never know.

Example two: You may know from a previous post that I have always been somewhat anti-makeup- if there is such a thing. There is a reason for it. Every time I would wear eye makeup, my eyes would get all gooky, and itchy, and irritated. Well, whilst interrogating my eye primer and shadow I discovered their gluten ways! Needless to say, they have a new home now, with my non Celiac Mom. And I have since moved on to gluten-free Afterglow with immaculate results.

Also, it is so easy to get what is on your body, in your mouth. Seriously. Ladies, ever walk on the beach, with your hair dancing majestically in the wind, and majestically into your mouth? The residue of your shampoo is more than likely to still be in your hair.

Men, ever finally perfect that great close shave that you know your lady will love? Then go to grab a snack and guess what- that lovely, glutened shaving cream residue is (unknowingly) all over your fingers.

So, the bottom line is that it is up to you. I have been taught to question everything, and hold onto the good. I encourage you to do the same regarding Celiac Disease or Gluten intolerance. Honestly, doctors are great, but they don't know everything about the disease, and they don't know you. If you find yourself feeling better being completely gluten free, then go for it. Or if you find you're more comfortable not worrying about cross contamination,

then go for it.

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check out Naturally Dahling for some fantastic gluten free cosmetics.