Answer courtesy of Beth Winthrop, RD, National Development Director for Wellness, Campus Services

For people with celiac disease, a gluten-free diet is the only way to maintain good health. If you have a family history of celiac disease, gastrointestinal complaints, and/or other autoimmune disorders, read more at www.gluten.net, and consult your doctor before starting a gluten-free diet. Many people can benefit from reducing refined carbohydrates in their diets (white bread, cookies, white pasta) without necessarily eliminating gluten. If you do medically require a gluten-free diet, you’ll also need to avoid cross-contact with gluten-containing foods, learn to shop and cook differently, and learn to advocate for yourself in restaurants. With planning, a gluten-free diet can be healthy and delicious.