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How Your Dog Can Help You Detect Gluten and Stay Healthy




Imagine being diagnosed with celiac disease and facing the constant fear of hidden gluten exposure that could make you seriously ill. This was Kendra Williams’ reality after her 2017 diagnosis, as she navigated a world where even a crumb of gluten could cause days of pain, severe illness, and disrupted life. Determined to regain control and find peace in her day-to-day, Kendra made a life-changing decision—to train a gluten detection dog. Enter Suki, a Portuguese water dog with a special talent for sniffing out gluten, who has become Kendra’s trusted companion in this challenging journey.

In this powerful episode of the Integrative Health Podcast with Dr. Jen, Kendra Williams shares the story behind her battle with celiac disease and the remarkable role Suki has played in helping her live a safer, healthier life. From the initial struggles of navigating a strict gluten-free lifestyle to the surprising complexities of gluten exposure, Kendra opens up about the fears, frustrations, and triumphs that have defined her journey. Dr. Jen and Kendra delve into the nuances of living with a chronic condition like celiac disease, providing insights into the challenges of eating out, handling cross-contamination, and finding the right support system.

A Story of Discovery and Resilience: 

In the early days of her diagnosis, Kendra struggled to adjust to a gluten-free diet. Even with diligent efforts to avoid gluten, she found herself getting sick from accidental exposures, especially when dining out or taking medication. Kendra describes how, after countless bouts of illness, she knew she needed to find a better way to protect herself. It was during this time that she discovered the unique concept of training a gluten detection dog—a path that would change her life in ways she never imagined. She shares the meticulous two-year process of training Suki, the ups and downs of teaching her dog to detect gluten, and how Suki has saved her from getting sick on numerous occasions. Kendra’s story is one of resilience and determination, showing how a person’s resolve to take control of their health can lead to innovative solutions.

Understanding Celiac Disease and the Impact of Hidden Gluten: 

For those living with celiac disease, the journey often begins with a long and painful road to diagnosis. Kendra reveals the mysterious symptoms that plagued her for months, including relentless coughing and bronchitis-like symptoms, which were eventually traced back to severe gluten sensitivity. She describes the turning point of meeting an integrative rheumatologist who identified celiac disease as the root cause of her chronic health issues. Kendra’s experiences shed light on the diverse symptoms of celiac disease that can easily go unrecognized, highlighting the need for greater awareness and understanding of this autoimmune disorder.

In their conversation, Dr. Jen and Kendra dive deep into the challenges of maintaining a gluten-free lifestyle. They discuss common pitfalls that can catch even the most diligent gluten-free eaters off guard, such as cross-contact in kitchens, mislabeled products, and hidden gluten in medications. Kendra’s experiences bring to life the real struggles of navigating a gluten-filled world while trying to stay safe. She shares how Suki’s trained nose helps detect traces of gluten in food, personal care items, and even medicine, providing a level of safety that previously seemed impossible.

The Science Behind Gluten Detection Dogs:

 Listeners will be fascinated by the science and training behind gluten detection dogs like Suki. Kendra explains the rigorous training process that involves both behavior training and specific scent detection work. Working closely with a specialized trainer over Zoom, she learned how to refine Suki’s abilities to distinguish between gluten and gluten-free items. Kendra’s description of how Suki raises a paw to signal the presence of gluten or taps a leg when the coast is clear is both heartwarming and enlightening. For anyone curious about service animals or looking for ways to manage severe food allergies, Kendra’s insights offer a unique perspective on how service dogs can be tailored to meet specific needs.

Addressing Misconceptions and Building Awareness: 

One of the most significant aspects of this episode is the discussion around the differences between celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and gluten-free lifestyle choices. Dr. Jen and Kendra emphasize the importance of recognizing the serious health risks posed by gluten exposure for those with celiac disease. Kendra shares her experiences with restaurants and friends who may not fully understand the consequences of even minor cross-contamination, such as using the same cutting board for gluten-free and regular foods. She highlights the mental toll that constant vigilance takes on those with celiac disease, and how Suki’s assistance has alleviated much of that stress.

Empowering Listeners with Practical Advice:

Throughout the episode, Kendra and Dr. Jen offer practical advice for those living with celiac disease or supporting loved ones who do. From tips on finding reputable gluten-free restaurants to understanding the importance of asking the right questions about food preparation, the conversation is packed with actionable insights. Kendra’s story also serves as a guide for anyone interested in exploring the option of a gluten detection dog, including considerations around time commitment, training approaches, and working with certified trainers.

Kendra’s experiences underscore the need for better education and resources for newly diagnosed individuals. She speaks passionately about the gaps in information that often leave people feeling lost and unprepared after receiving a celiac diagnosis. By sharing her journey, Kendra aims to inspire others to take proactive steps in their health journey, whether it’s through seeking out knowledgeable healthcare providers, building a support system, or exploring innovative solutions like gluten detection dogs.

A Deep Dive into the Emotional and Social Impact:

Living with celiac disease goes beyond physical symptoms—it deeply affects one’s emotional and social life. Kendra talks candidly about the isolation that can come with constantly having to explain dietary needs to others, and the anxiety of attending social gatherings where food is involved. She recalls moments when Suki’s alerts prevented her from eating something that could have made her gravely ill, offering a sense of relief and reassurance that had long been missing from her life. Dr. Jen and Kendra explore how having a gluten detection dog can restore a sense of normalcy and confidence, allowing individuals to participate more fully in social activities.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Celiac Disease Diagnosis: 

The episode also touches on promising developments in celiac disease testing, such as non-invasive blood tests that could eliminate the need for a gluten challenge. Kendra shares her hope that advancements like these will make it easier for others to receive a diagnosis and avoid the painful experiences she endured. Dr. Jen adds her perspective on the importance of integrative and functional approaches to chronic illness, highlighting how collaboration between traditional medicine and innovative therapies can lead to better outcomes for patients.

A Must-Listen Episode for Those Seeking Hope and Inspiration: 

Whether you’re living with celiac disease, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the world of service animals, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Kendra’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and thinking outside the box when it comes to health and well-being. Her bond with Suki shows that with the right tools and support, even the most challenging health conditions can be managed with grace and hope.

Join Dr. Jen and Kendra Williams as they explore the journey from diagnosis to empowerment, and discover how a four-legged friend can change the course of someone’s life. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and take the first step towards understanding the transformative power of gluten detection dogs and the importance of staying vigilant with celiac disease. This is one episode you won’t want to miss!

Tune in to learn:

  • How Kendra trained Suki to become a life-saving gluten detection dog.

  • The emotional challenges of living with celiac disease and how to navigate them.

  • Practical tips for staying gluten-free in a world full of hidden risks.

  • Insights into the future of celiac disease diagnosis and non-invasive testing methods.

Listen to Episode 72 of the Integrative Health Podcast with Kendra Williams and Suki today, and discover a story that blends heartwarming companionship with the relentless pursuit of health and safety. Let Kendra’s story inspire you to find innovative solutions in your own journey to wellness, and see how a gluten detection dog could make all the difference.



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