Being allergic to certain types of foods can be really upsetting at times, however, Santa Barbara has increased their options for people with Celiac disease. I miss the times when we could eat what we actually like instead of what our body can handle.

Celiac disease is a condition that damages the lining of the small intestine and prevents it from absorbing parts of food that are important for staying healthy.

Gluten is found in wheat, rye and barley, so any product that contains these ingredients will result in many negative side effects including bleeding, abdominal cramping, anemia, unexplained weight loss, bone or joint pain, fatigue, infertility, osteopenia, depression and migraine headaches.

Up until a few years ago, restaurant owners did not know what gluten was.

I feel really uncomfortable while going out with friends because I am unable to eat anything.  I just gave up going to restaurants because I had to explain over and over about my food allergies.

According to the University of Chicano, one of every 133 Americans have Celiac Disease. They must avoid gluten for the rest of their lives.

With so many people demanding gluten-free food, groceries stores and restaurants started to get familiar with food allergies.

People who haven’t been affected by Celiac disease may not feel that having gluten-free products are important.  However many people who don’t have Celiac disease and still decide to live a gluten-free lifestyle report feeling better and improved health.

In Santa Barbara, there are a great variety of gluten-free friendly restaurants that help their customers conquer their desire. These establishments include Opal Restaurant and Bar, Palazzio, Pizza Guru, Downey’s, Outback Steakhouse, Killer B’s BBQ Bar, Sly’s and plenty more.

Of course, we still hope to see more variation on the shelves in a few years from now. However, we have to be thankful for the great amount of gluten-free goodies in this beautiful town.