June 3 Luncheon to Discuss Celiac Disease, Gluten-free Diets

WARE — Many people are on gluten-free diets, due to either celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or just because they think it’s healthier.

The community is invited to attend a luncheon program entitled “Get the Skinny on Gluten-free Diets” presented by Dr. Harbir Sawhney, gastroenterologist from Baystate Medical Practices – Mary Lane Gastroenterology, on Wednesday, June 3, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Main Conference Room at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital.

“Dr. Sawhney will discuss celiac disease, gluten-free diets, and all things gastro,” said Susan Fontaine, senior coordinator of Loyalty Programs at Baystate Health. “Celiac disease is a digestive disorder in which the body can’t tolerate gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and sometimes oats.”

According to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, an estimated 1 in 133 Americans, or about 1{06cf2b9696b159f874511d23dbc893eb1ac83014175ed30550cfff22781411e5} of the population, has celiac disease.

“If you need to cut gluten from your diet, it may seem difficult, but there are many healthy and delicious foods that are naturally gluten-free,” said Fontaine, noting that the program will include a gluten-free bag lunch at no cost.

The program is sponsored by Baystate Health Senior Class. Space is limited; registration is required by calling Baystate Health Link at (413) 967-2488. For more information about the Senior Class Loyalty Program, visit www.baystatehealth.org/seniorclass.