What is celiac disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects around 1% of the population worldwide. It is caused by an abnormal immune reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In people with celiac disease, gluten triggers inflammation and damage to the lining of the small intestine, leading to a variety of gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms. There is no cure for celiac disease, but it can be effectively managed by adhering to a strict lifelong gluten-free diet.
What are the symptoms of celiac disease?
Celiac disease affects people differently, but common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea, constipation, or other digestive issues
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Failure to thrive in children
- Joint pain
- Skin rashes
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
- Mood changes like depression or anxiety
Symptoms typically start between 6 months and 2 years of age after introducing gluten into the diet. But celiac can also develop later in life, even in one’s 70s or 80s. Some people have no noticeable symptoms at all, known as silent celiac disease, but may still develop complications.
Why is a gluten-free diet important for celiac disease?
The only treatment for celiac disease is strict adherence to a 100% gluten-free diet. This means avoiding foods and products containing wheat, barley, rye, and sometimes oats. Following a gluten-free diet allows the damaged small intestine to heal and prevents further damage.
With a gluten-free diet, most people with celiac disease start to feel better within days or weeks as inflammation subsides. However, it can take 6 months to 2 years for the intestines to fully heal. Importantly, a gluten-free diet must be maintained lifelong. Even small amounts of gluten can trigger symptoms and promote intestinal damage.
If left untreated, celiac disease leads to serious complications like malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, neurological issues, and certain cancers. That’s why it’s so crucial for people with celiac disease to be vigilant about checking labels and avoiding cross-contamination. A gluten-free diet dramatically reduces the risk of long-term complications.
What is BOOST nutritional drink?
BOOST is a popular nutritional drink made by Nestlé. It comes in ready-to-drink bottles and powder mixes in a variety of flavors. BOOST is marketed as a nutritious supplement drink high in protein and nutrients.
Some key facts about BOOST nutritional drinks:
- Contain 10 grams of protein per serving from milk protein isolates
- Provide 26 essential vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, and E
- Include probiotics like Bifidobacterium lactis
- Offer 350 calories per 8 fluid ounce bottle
- Come in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, and coffee
- Made in dairy and non-dairy (plant-based) varieties
- Fortified with fiber and antioxidants
BOOST is frequently recommended for older adults to increase protein and nutrient intake. It can also be used by people recovering from surgery or illness who need extra calories and nutrition. Some varieties are designed for diabetics or to support immunity or digestive health.
Is regular BOOST gluten-free?
No, regular BOOST products containing milk-based ingredients are NOT gluten-free and are not suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
BOOST made its original formulas using milk-derived ingredients like whey protein concentrate and milk protein isolates. These ingredients are sourced from cow’s milk, which contains trace amounts of gluten from grains the cows consumed.
While the gluten content is very low, it can still be problematic for those requiring a gluten-free diet. The exact amount of gluten in regular BOOST drinks is unknown and likely variable. Thus, traditional BOOST drinks are considered unsafe for those with celiac.
Does BOOST make any gluten-free products?
Yes, while BOOST’s regular products contain traces of gluten, they do offer several completely gluten-free varieties:
- BOOST Plant-Based Protein – Made with pea protein isolate and naturally gluten-free ingredients
- BOOST Glucose Control – Formulated with gluten-free whey protein isolate
- BOOST High Protein – Uses gluten-free whey protein isolates
- BOOST Kid Essentials Nutritionally Complete Drink – Made with corn maltodextrin and gluten-free ingredients
- BOOST Breeze – Contains gluten-free milk protein isolate
- BOOST Calorie Smart – Uses gluten-free whey protein isolate
- BOOST Very High Calorie – Made with gluten-free milk protein concentrate
- BOOST MAX 30g Protein – Contains gluten-free whey protein isolates
These varieties are made without any gluten-containing ingredients and are verified gluten-free to less than 10-20 ppm. They are suitable options for celiacs provided they are not at risk for cross-contamination.
Which gluten-free BOOST products are best for celiac disease?
The stand-out gluten-free BOOST products recommended for people with celiac disease include:
1. BOOST Plant-Based Protein
– Pea protein isolate formula suitable for vegans/vegetarians
– 10g plant protein, 26 vitamins & minerals, 8g fiber per serving
– Dairy-free and made in a gluten-free facility
2. BOOST High Protein
– Provides 30g gluten-free whey protein isolate per serving
– Contains probiotics, vitamins, and minerals
– 240 calories and low sugar
3. BOOST Glucose Control
– Clinically shown to help control blood glucose in diabetics
– Has 27g whey protein isolate, 3g sugar, and chromium picolinate
– Made in a gluten-free facility
These options provide high quality gluten-free protein, nutrients, and calories needed for good health in celiac disease. Those sensitive to cross-contamination should verify the product is made in a gluten-free facility.
Should BOOST drinks be used as meal replacements in celiac disease?
BOOST can be an effective nutritional supplement for people with celiac disease when used appropriately. However, BOOST drinks should not fully replace meals on an ongoing basis.
Here are some tips on how to incorporate BOOST safely for celiac disease:
– Use BOOST as an occasional snack or mini-meal, not a total meal replacement
– Verify the specific product is gluten-free and from a gluten-free facility
– Be cautious of potential cross-contamination if making shakes with added ingredients
– Focus on getting adequate calories, protein, vitamins and minerals from your core gluten-free diet
– Work with a dietitian knowledgeable in celiac disease for optimal nutrition
– Conduct regular follow-up bloodwork to monitor health and nutritional status
For quick, temporary nutrition, a gluten-free BOOST drink can be helpful alongside a well-balanced gluten-free diet. But relying solely on nutritional supplements long-term is not advised. Whole foods should be the foundation of nutrition for celiacs.
Can celiacs drink whey protein BOOST products?
Some people with celiac disease are unsure about consuming whey-based protein powders and shakes like BOOST. Here’s what the research says:
Most celiacs can tolerate purified whey protein isolate with minimal issues:
- Whey isolate contains very little lactose, limiting gastrointestinal symptoms
- The isolation process removes most milk allergens
- Independent lab testing shows no detectable gluten in whey isolate
- Studies demonstrate celiacs safely consumed whey protein supplements
However, whey protein concentrate may be more problematic:
- Less processing so contains higher lactose levels
- Potentially more milk allergens present
- May have slightly higher traces of gluten
So while most celiacs do fine with whey protein isolate drinks like BOOST, consult your doctor if concerned. And always verify the product is certified gluten-free from a facility with proper protocols in place.
What about potential cross-contamination of BOOST drinks?
Cross-contamination is when a gluten-free product picks up traces of gluten during manufacturing or handling. This risk depends on the policies of the facility producing BOOST products:
- Some BOOST drinks are made in dedicated gluten-free facilities, avoiding cross-contamination.
- Other varieties are made in facilities that also process gluten, so gluten could get into the product.
- BOOST plant-based drinks likely have lower cross-contamination risks since no gluten ingredients are on-site.
- Whey protein BOOST products may have higher risks since they are dairy-based.
To know the cross-contamination status for sure, check the website or contact BOOST customer service. Celiacs highly sensitive should only consume BOOST products made in gluten-free facilities. Overall, the risks appear relatively low if proper protocols are followed.
What precautions should someone with celiac disease take with BOOST?
Here are some precautions people with celiac disease should follow when consuming BOOST supplements:
– Carefully read the label of every flavor and variety to verify it is gluten-free. Avoid any regular BOOST containing milk-derivatives.
– Check that the specific product is made in a gluten-free facility and process. Contact BOOST for manufacturing details if uncertain.
– When preparing shakes, avoid adding in any ingredients that contain gluten like wheat germ. Use only certified gluten-free add-ins.
– Thoroughly clean blendors and utensils before making gluten-free shakes to prevent cross-contamination.
– Check BOOST packaging closely for any signs it may have been compromised or contaminated during storage or transport.
– Start slowly with new gluten-free products and monitor symptoms for any signs of reaction.
– Consult both your doctor and dietitian if concerned or needing guidance on incorporating supplements.
Following basic precautions helps ensure BOOST is safely incorporated into a celiac disease diet. But overall, the gluten-free options appear a safe nutritional choice when protocols are followed.
Does BOOST contain FODMAPs problematic for IBS?
For celiacs who also have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), consuming FODMAPs found in some supplements can be problematic and worsen gut symptoms:
- FODMAPs are certain carbohydrates not absorbed well in the intestines
- Common high FODMAP ingredients include milk, whey, inulin, fructose, and xylitol
- A low FODMAP diet helps manage IBS abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea
Many BOOST products do contain higher FODMAP whey protein or inulin fiber. But some varieties like BOOST Glucose Control and BOOST Plant-Based Protein are lower in FODMAPs.
Those with IBS should select appropriate lower FODMAP options. And restrict BOOST to a serving per day since larger amounts may trigger symptoms. Working with a dietitian knowledgeable in both celiac disease and the low FODMAP diet can provide guidance in navigating suitable supplements.
The bottom line – Is BOOST suitable for a gluten-free celiac diet?
BOOST can be a helpful addition to a gluten-free diet for celiac disease, provided certain protocols and precautions are followed:
- Only consume varieties verified gluten-free, like plant-based or whey isolate formulas
- Avoid any drinks containing gluten-risky milk derivatives
- Check drinks are made in a gluten-free facility to limit contamination
- Use as a snack or mini-meal, not sole nutrition source
- Combine with a healthy overall gluten-free diet with emphasis on whole foods
- Work with your healthcare team if questions or concerns arise
When used properly, gluten-free BOOST can provide important supplemental nutrition for celiacs. But it should not replace eating a balanced gluten-free diet focused on naturally nutrient-dense foods. With some care reading labels and selecting products made safely, BOOST can be a beneficial addition to optimize health with celiac disease.
