Community Unites at Celiac Disease Foundation’s National Conference & Gluten-Free EXPO

Life-Changing Opportunity for Individuals with Celiac Disease and other Gluten-Related Disorders in Pasadena, CA May 2-3

LOS ANGELES, CA – February 18, 2015 – Celiac Disease Foundation (CDF), the leading national organization improving the quality of life for all people affected by gluten-related disorders, today announces that over 3,000 people are expected in Pasadena on May 2 – 3, 2015, for CDF’s Annual National Conference & Gluten-Free EXPO, celebrating our 25th Anniversary.

Patients, family members, caregivers, health care professionals, and gluten-free foodies will converge at the Pasadena Convention Center for this educational and gluten-free experience. The May 2nd conference focuses on medical information and updates on celiac disease, one of the world’s most prevalent and under diagnosed genetic autoimmune diseases. The EXPO on May 2nd and 3rd celebrates food options now available for people with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and others who seek benefits from the gluten-free lifestyle. For many of the conference attendees, this is the first time they will be surrounded by a community of people living with celiac disease or gluten-sensitivity.

“Celiac Disease Foundation is committed to increasing education and awareness about the importance of diagnosing and treating celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders. CDF Medical Advisory Board members will come together to discuss the latest research and advancements in living with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity,” stated Marilyn G. Geller, the Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer. Leading dietitians and nutrition experts in the gluten-free food industry will share their knowledge and experience. This is a remarkable and life-changing event for all people coping with celiac disease or a gluten-related disorder.

“This is the largest gathering of its kind in the United States for patients, family members, and the public to receive valid and current information about celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders. It is an outstanding opportunity to sample the latest and best in gluten-free products, and to learn about the wide variety of options available to us today,” added Marc Riches, National Chair, CDF Board of Directors.

The Education Conference

The May 2nd National Conference features world renowned experts, including Dr. Joseph Murray of the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Sheila Crowe of UCSD, Shelley Case, BSc, RD, as well as a dietetic and nutrition panel, featuring Anne Roland Lee, PhD of Schar, and Yang Pan, PhD of Frito-Lay.

Other highlights for attendees of the Conference include:

  • Gluten-Free Breakfast sponsored by Dole and Jones Dairy Farm
  • VIP Gluten-Free Swag Bag
  • 15-minute one-on-one consultation with Registered Dietitian or Mental Health Professional
  • Exclusive, VIP, Private Access, plus a 2-Day pass to the Gluten-Free EXPO

The Gluten-Free EXPO

The May 2nd and 3rd Gluten-Free EXPO features more than 100 companies exhibiting the latest and best in gluten-free products and services. Attendees will be able to sample to their heart’s content, try new products not yet found in stores, and leave with a bag full of gluten-free goodies and coupons. With cooking demonstrations, book signings, and products available for purchase at discounted prices, this is an event not to be missed!

For more information about celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and the Celiac Disease Foundation National Conference & Gluten-Free EXPO, visit celiac.org/register

About Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is one of the world’s most prevalent and under diagnosed genetic autoimmune diseases, and a cause of considerable suffering among the three million American children and adults affected. However, when celiac disease is detected early, serious illness – including cancers and coronary heart disease – can be prevented. The ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and triticale, damages the small intestine of people with celiac disease, leaving them unable to absorb nutrients. Celiac disease is also linked to other autoimmune disorders and conditions, including: type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, osteoporosis, and neurological and vitamin deficiencies, which makes diagnosing and treating celiac disease crucial for the health of those afflicted.

About Celiac Disease Foundation

Celiac Disease Foundation drives diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease through advocacy, education, and advancing research to improve the quality of life for all people affected by gluten-related disorders. Celiac Disease Foundation (CDF) is a non-profit, public benefit corporation established in 1990 by Elaine Monarch to support the celiac disease community by funding important advocacy, education, and research initiatives. Today, under the guidance of a National Board of Directors and an internationally renowned Medical Advisory Board, the Foundation has grown to include a nationwide network of volunteers, a Chapters and Support Groups program, and full-time staff in Los Angeles, California. In order to further our mission, we ensure that people living with celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders receive accessible, evidence-based medical information and support services to help them live longer, healthier lives.

For more information about CDF, visit celiac.org or call (818)716-1513.