Auburn-based GIG presents gluten-free event June 16

Published 3:52 pm Thursday, May 31, 2012

The Auburn-based Gluten Intolerance Group of North America (GIG) is sponsoring a gluten-free lifestyle event June 16 in Seattle.

The Gluten-Free Health and Wellness Experience runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 18740 International Blvd.

Participants can learn more about the gluten-free lifestyle by observing cooking demonstrations, sampling products and talking with diet and exercise experts.

GIG, founded in 1974, was the first gluten-free organization of its kind.

Today, it is estimated that one in 133 Americans has celiac disease, which is a chronic and permanent sensitivity to the food protein gluten and according to 1in133.org, the most common genetic disorder in North America and Europe. Gluten is found in wheat, barley and rye.

“While celiac disease is a serious medical condition, many are choosing to eat gluten-free,” said Cynthia Kupper, GIG executive director. “Whatever an individual’s reason may be for living gluten-free, it is important for them to have accurate nutritional information. Our event will give Seattle-area residents the knowledge and tools to live healthy, balanced lives.”

Individuals at the event can learn to maintain or improve their health through speaker presentations on a variety of topics, including generalized information on wheat allergy and gluten sensitivity, encouraging children to form healthy eating habits, adjusting recipes to fit a gluten-free diet, yoga and the benefits of adequate sleep.

Iris Higgins and Brittany Angell, co-authors of two gluten-free cookbooks and avid gluten-free bloggers, will discuss ways to modify recipes to make them gluten-free in their Gluten-Free Baking 101 presentation at 2:45 p.m.

“Eating gluten-free doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite family recipes when baking,” Higgins said. “We will teach people simple substitution tips to stay true to a recipe’s taste, but make it safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.”

Other presentations throughout the day include:

• “Understanding the Difference Between Allergy, Intolerance and Sensitivity” by Dr. Stephen Wangen.

• “Mindful Eating” by Certified Nutritionist Katie McKenna.

• “Healthy, Clean Eating for Kids” by Personal Chef/Nutritionist Amie Valpone.

Exhibits featuring gluten-free baked goods, pizza, supplements and other products will be on display at the event. Free health screenings for body mass index, blood pressure, diabetes and bone density will also be offered.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children ages 11-17 and free for children 10 and younger.

Those interested in attending can register online and see a full schedule at www.experience.gluten.net or purchase tickets at the door the day of the event.