Gluten Freedom: The Nation's Leading Expert Offers the Essential Guide to a Healthy, Gluten-Free Lifestyle

For centuries, bread has been known as the "staff of life." But for millions of Americans affected by gluten-related disorders, consuming gluten, the complex protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, can be hazardous to their health. In a recent poll presented by Scientific American, over 30% of Americans reported wanting to cut down or eliminate gluten from their diets; the gluten-free market is a $6.3 billion industry and continues to expand.

Now, in Gluten Freedom, Alessio Fasano, MD, world-renowned expert and founder of Massachusetts General Hospital's Center for Celiac Research, reveals the latest developments in scientific research and treatment, and the answers they provide for this rapidly expanding audience. This groundbreaking, authoritative guide is an invaluable roadmap for the newly diagnosed, for those already dealing with gluten-related issues, and for anyone who thinks they may have an issue with gluten.

Distinguishing scientific fact from myth, Gluten Freedom explains the latest research, diagnostic procedures, and treatment/diet recommendations, helping consumers make the best choices for themselves and their families. Gluten Freedom also discusses important nutritional implications for behavior-related diagnoses such as autism and conditions such as depression, anxiety, and "foggy mind." Other highlights include:

- The differences between celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and wheat allergy

- Current best practices for gluten-related disorders at any age

- Practical information on setting up a gluten-free kitchen, reading labels, and staying safe and healthy in a world filled with hidden sources of gluten

- The psychological impact of a diagnosis and its effect on a family

- Groundbreaking research for prevention and therapy

- Reliable and accurate resources for patients, parents, and physicians

- And even recipes for an authentic gluten-free Italian dinner from Dr. Fasano's home kitchen

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of Gluten Freedom benefit the Center for Celiac Research.

World-renowned pediatric gastroenterologist and research scientist Alessio Fasano is founder and director of the Center for Celiac Research at Massachusetts General Hospital, the first research and treatment center for celiac disease, wheat allergy, and gluten sensitivity in the U.S. Dr. Fasano created the Center in 1996 to advance the treatment, research, and awareness of celiac disease; his research established the prevalence of the autoimmune disorder as one in 133 in 2003. A national and international keynote speaker, he is also widely sought by national and international media and has been featured in hundreds of outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, NPR, CNN, Bloomberg News, USA Today, Los Angeles Times, Huffington Post, "Good Morning America, " VOGUE, and numerous health-related websites and magazines. Trained in Naples, Italy, Dr. Fasano is visiting professor at Harvard Medical School and chief of the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition at MassGeneral Hospital for Children.

Nationally award-winning higher education writer and editor Susie Flaherty is director of communications for the Center for Celiac Research at Massachusetts General Hospital. The former speechwriter to university presidents and international bank executives has led a wide variety of marketing and strategic communications projects, including a stint as senior editor at the University of Maryland. Her current work at the Center for Celiac Research includes promoting Dr. Fasano's research into the causes, treatment, and prevention of celiac disease and other autoimmune disorders. A member of the National Association of Science Writers, Susie is also an accomplished singer and songwriter.