<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> Hi Everyone, Its been quite a long time since I've posted but I want to share some information that you might be interested in. First of all, I have been diagnosed with CD for six years now. Last year I was diagnosed with a myositis (I have been spending a lot of time on the Myositis bulletin board and even went to a conference). How ironic I sat with a lady who's sister had celiac disease and the mother had lymphoma. I also met other people on the myositis bulletin board who are now going to be tested for celiac. They do not know what causes myositis but the symptoms do appear in the MSG symptom complex book. (below) I just want to warn everyone that experiences any muscle weakness, muscle pain, burning sensations, trouble breathing, fatigue, to be aware of this disease. I thought my muscle weakness was from the lack of vitamins of the CD. Well, my ANA was l:640. Then I had a muscle biopsy done which showed degenerative/regenerative of my muscle and mild neurogenic atrophy. Well 5% of celiacs that my doctor sees says that they have neuromuscular problems. I just want everyone to be aware of this. Second, I just finished reading the book "In Bad Taste" The MSG Symptom Complex by George R. Schwartz, MD.(New Revised Edition). Every celiac needs to read this book. This stuff is killing us!!!! I couldn't believe how much MSG I was ingesting in spite of being gluten-free. Yes, MSG can be gluten-free but it is still a "rat poison." MSG can be made from any protein, including wheat, even pork. Chapter 8 talks about the other ingredients that MSG is hidden under. Don't accept the fact that MSG is made from corn and is safe. I talked to the lady at the MSG Nati onal Organization 800-232-8674. Her name was Kathleen and very informative. She said no celiacs should be ingesting MSG. The book states that it is a drug. It is a potent nerve toxin. I think this is why I am having neuromuscular problems. I am not promoting this book to buy it. I just happened to come across it in the library while "browsing". Everyone needs to read this. I think this stuff is causing a lot of autoimmune problems. Once you start reading this I guarantee you will not put it down. Thirdly, I just noticed Dr. Fine's website enterolab.com I would encourage this testing since it only uses a stool sample and he is right--every American needs to be tested for celiac disease. I had silent celiac and nearly lost my life to this disease. I am still battling complications. I think his quote says it all "Change strikes fear...Dietary change strikes terror! Dr. Fine. Did everyone see the article about "Kid Rock" his sidekick died at the age of 26 (he had celiac disease). Nov. 2000 under ABCNEWS.com. We need to get this disease out into the media. If research is showing 1:150 prevalence why aren't these grocery store shelves overflowing with gluten free products. A gluten-free diet is even recommended for AIDS, and MS. Why isn't this being publicized? One problem is there is no national organization. Too many sticks in the fire. I brought this up four years ago. We have no major force going to battle for us. Any ideas on how to get this changed? I am fed up with all of these celiac organizations. If anyone is on my side lets get things changed NOW. Thanks for reading this post. I hope someone will benefit from it. I only know I don't want my kids dealing with this lack of organization if they are ever diagnosed. Elaine