On Saturday October 24th the 2009 Gluten Sensitivity and Celiac Forum took place to a capacity crowd. The ballroom at the Rosewood Sand Hill Hotel holds 200 people but we soon discovered that 230+ could also be arranged!
Over 15 vendors from around the Bay Area were present to the delight of all the participants. From crackers to cookies and from ravioli to sausage, a wide array of gluten-free and often dairy-free fare was enjoyed by all.
When they weren't eating, attendees were being presented with some hard science and the latest research in the area of gluten sensitivity and celiac disease.
Dr Vikki Petersen started the day with a compelling presentation about the perceived vs. accurate differences between gluten sensitivity and celiac and also engaged her audience with solid scientific research from around the globe dispelling what is considered the "gold standard" for celiac diagnosis.
Dr Rodney Ford, a pediatric gastroenterologist, had flown in from New Zealand the night before to attend the Forum. His presentation on the connection between gluten and the nervous system was not only fascinating but well supported by his research of thousands of children. Dr Ford is a prolific researcher, author of several books and well known speaker throughout the world.
Completing the day was Dr Richard Petersen who rounded out the program with a discussion of what may be the causes of continued health problem despite going gluten-free. He reviewed "leaky gut", infections, imbalance of good bacteria and adrenal fatigue.
The Forum ended with a Question & Answer session that could have gone on much longer had time allowed.
It seemed to be a consensus that an annual event of this type was very needed and wanted by the community with 95% of those attending rating the overall event as "excellent".
news article (Nov 4, 2009)
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