In a time where gluten intolerance seems to be on the rise, the question of what exactly causes celiac disease and gluten intolerance is quite a hot topic.  I recently read a wonderful article out of the Emerson College magazine called “In the Defense of Dirt”.  The article discusses how there is a preponderance of allergies and autoimmune diseases in modern times and it suggests that our hyper-vigilance towards cleanliness might be a cause.  In order to build a “healthy gut”, we must expose our bodies to dirt and “good bacteria”.

This lovely article out of The New York Times discusses a similar concept, as seen through the light of the relatively recent rise of celiac disease and gluten intolerance.  The article brings up similar themes of the necessity of exposure to a wide range of bacteria.  Being a new mom, I also enjoyed the section on how breastfeeding can really help build a healthy gut from the start.  This is a great read: Who Has the Guts for Gluten?