Greetings Gluten Free Wikaduke Participants,
This afternoon I had a conversation with Carol Shilson who is the Director of the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Program regarding the great oat debate. Despite what may otherwise be said on this blog and elsewhere, UCCDC believes that PURE oats are safe.
Carol said that PURE oats eaten in moderation of one cup per day should be fine for those with Celiac Disease. While there are other brands, Cream Hill Estates is a brand of uncontaminated and tested oats. Don't eat regular standard oats due to the possibility of cross contact/contamination.
Carol mentioned that a very, very, very small percentage of Celiacs react to oats BUT it's NOT a Celiac Disease reaction despite how it feels. Because the gluten-free diet is rather low in fiber, our bodies aren't used to eating it. She said that the fiber in oats may cause Celiac-like symptoms due to not eating high fiber food.
The UCCDC website has much useful information. In addition, their stance on oats can be read here. Scroll all the way to the bottom of the page to get to the oat information.
UCCDC is happy to answer questions related to Celiac Disease. Simply give them a call at their hotline at 773-702-7593.
Tracy
