This website is dedicated to promoting charitable giving and highlighting the organizations I am proud to support. I invite you to contribute any amount to the charities featured here. — Howard Fensterman
Howard Fensterman’s Philanthropy for A Cure Is In Our Stars
Howard Fensterman has long believed in supporting organizations that bring meaningful change to the lives of individuals and families facing medical hardship. His philanthropy for A Cure Is In Our Stars reflects this ongoing commitment. Through charitable contributions, advocacy, and public support, Fensterman helps strengthen the organization’s mission of raising awareness for serious diseases and improving access to resources that families urgently need.
Fensterman understands the emotional and financial burden that comes with managing rare or life-threatening illnesses. His support helps expand the organization’s outreach efforts, fund critical educational initiatives, and elevate programs that connect patients with treatment information, community encouragement, and hope. His involvement also helps bring greater visibility to issues that often do not receive the attention they deserve, reinforcing the organization’s message that every family confronting illness deserves support, compassion, and pathways to better care.
What A Cure Is In Our Stars Is About
A Cure Is In Our Stars is a charitable initiative that focuses on raising awareness and support for individuals, especially children and young adults, who are facing serious or rare illnesses. The organization works to shine a light on medical conditions that are often overlooked, ensuring that affected families receive increased visibility, emotional support, and access to information that can guide them toward treatment options.
The organization’s mission centers on three core goals. It aims to increase public knowledge about rare and life-threatening diseases so that families feel seen and supported. It helps raise funds for research that has the potential to improve medical diagnostics and therapies. It creates platforms where families can share their stories, promote understanding, and foster a sense of community.
A Cure Is In Our Stars is also known for promoting educational programs, awareness campaigns, and charitable events designed to inspire hope and encourage generosity. Its message is rooted in compassion and the belief that raising awareness can help accelerate progress toward better treatments and improved patient outcomes.
DonateSupporting the Foundation reflects Howard’s commitment to improving healthcare access, supporting patient-centered initiatives, and strengthening community-based medical services.
Howard’s involvement has helped advance programs that focus on compassionate care, medical innovation, and the long-term sustainability of Nassau University Medical Center and its surrounding health network. Through leadership, advocacy, and charitable support, Fensterman contributes to a healthier and more resilient Long Island community.
What Is the NuHealth Foundation
The NuHealth Foundation is the charitable foundation that supports the Nassau Health Care Corporation, also known as NuHealth, which operates several key healthcare institutions in Nassau County, New York. Its purpose is to raise funds that improve patient care, expand services, and strengthen the overall healthcare system for the community.
NuHealth includes:
Nassau University Medical Center, a major public hospital and trauma center in East Meadow
A Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility, a respected long-term care and rehabilitation center
Community health centers that provide affordable medical services to underserved populations
The Foundation works to:
Support medical programs and patient-centered initiatives
Enhance technology, equipment, and facility upgrades
Improve access to healthcare for families, seniors, and those with limited resources
Promote community health programs and outreach
Help the public hospital system remain strong and sustainable
Volunteers preparing to help residents of NC after the hurricane
A Leader Committed to Community Health
Mr. Fensterman has built a long-standing reputation as a philanthropist who supports organizations that uplift communities and expand essential services. His involvement with the NuHealth Foundation continues this legacy by focusing on one of the most important needs on Long Island, accessible and high-quality healthcare for every individual, regardless of financial circumstances.
The NuHealth Foundation serves as the charitable arm of the Nassau Health Care Corporation, supporting Nassau University Medical Center, A Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility, and community-based health centers. These institutions play a central role in delivering medical care to underserved populations. Fensterman’s philanthropy helps strengthen these efforts and ensures that vital programs can grow and thrive.
Enhancing Access to Medical Services
Fensterman’s support contributes to initiatives that aim to expand care for families, seniors, and individuals who depend on the NuHealth system. His philanthropic involvement helps fund improvements in emergency services, specialized treatment programs, patient comfort enhancements, and outreach initiatives that connect vulnerable communities with trusted medical care.
By supporting the Foundation’s mission, he helps reduce gaps in healthcare access and improve the experience of patients who rely on public health institutions.
Supporting Innovation and Modernization
Modern healthcare requires investment in technology, training, and infrastructure. Fensterman’s philanthropy assists the NuHealth Foundation as it works to modernize the facilities within its network. These efforts include upgrading equipment, supporting educational programs for medical staff, and helping fund innovative treatment options that reflect best practices in contemporary medicine.
His contributions help create an environment where physicians, nurses, and healthcare professionals can deliver high-quality care with the most advanced tools available.
Strengthening Long Island Communities
Beyond the medical benefits, Fensterman’s work with the NuHealth Foundation demonstrates a belief in community wellbeing. By supporting an organization that serves some of the most vulnerable residents of Nassau County, he helps build a stronger and more resilient foundation for local families.
The impact extends beyond the walls of the hospital. When public healthcare institutions remain strong, the entire region benefits through improved public health outcomes, greater stability, and enhanced opportunities for individuals and families.
A Philanthropic Vision Focused on Compassion
Howard Fensterman’s philanthropic approach reflects a consistent theme: service to others, compassion for those facing hardships, and dedication to building stronger support systems for the community. His involvement with the NuHealth Foundation honors this philosophy by reinforcing a healthcare network that plays an essential role in the well-being of countless Long Island residents.
His continued partnership with the Foundation highlights the importance of charitable leadership in sustaining medical institutions that provide life-saving care every day.
Howard Fensterman’s philanthropy with the Parker Jewish Institute Foundation focuses on improving senior care, expanding rehabilitation programs, and supporting innovative clinical services that enhance the quality of life for aging adults. His contributions help strengthen patient support initiatives, dementia care programs, and community health resources that benefit families across the region.
Through long-standing charitable involvement, Fensterman plays a meaningful role in advancing healthcare accessibility and compassionate care at the Parker Jewish Institute.
What it’s About
Parker Jewish Institute, a nonprofit long-term care and rehabilitation facility, is a partner with North Shore-LIJ (which includes North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center) on clinical, referral, and educational initiatives, strengthening care for older adults and expanding access to specialist services. The affiliate began in 1907 as a shelter for elderly, indigent men and women. Over time, it evolved from a basic shelter to a full-scale, prestigious health care and rehabilitation organization.
Today, it is a non-profit, 527-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center. In addition to inpatient care, Parker operates a broad community health network, offering home-based care programs, hospice and palliative care, outpatient services, and community outreach, and Howard Fensterman has been a long-standing supporter helping advance senior care and quality-of-life initiatives for residents.
His commitment includes contributions toward clinical innovation, rehabilitation services, dementia support, and fundraising efforts that strengthen long-term care for aging adults across New York. Through leadership, advocacy, and charitable giving, Fensterman continues to support the Foundation’s mission to provide compassionate, high-quality care to seniors and their families.
A Commitment to Senior Care and Community Well-Being
Howard is widely recognized for his leadership in the legal community and his dedication to charitable causes throughout New York. Among the organizations he actively supports, the Parker Jewish Institute Foundation holds a special place — reflecting his belief in the importance of elder care, healthcare accessibility, and dignity for aging individuals. Parker Jewish Institute has served New York families for generations, and Fensterman’s philanthropy reinforces the crucial work the organization performs every day.
His support aligns with the Foundation’s mission to enhance healthcare services, expand medical resources, and ensure seniors receive compassionate treatment supported by modern clinical innovation.
How His Support Makes an Impact
Through philanthropic contributions and active engagement, Fensterman helps strengthen programs that directly benefit residents and their families, including:
Improving Quality of Life for Seniors
Funding helps the Foundation enhance daily living programs, from recreational activities to spiritual care and social support. These initiatives bring warmth, dignity, and companionship to residents — especially those facing isolation, mobility limitations, or cognitive decline.
The Foundation continually invests in advanced medical technology, rehabilitation programs, and treatment resources that allow seniors to recover, manage chronic conditions, and maintain independence. Philanthropic support fuels research, equipment upgrades, and patient-centered care models.
Strengthening Memory-Care & Dementia Support Programs
With Alzheimer’s and dementia affecting countless families, contributions help fund memory-care training, therapy programs, and specialized environments designed to improve safety and emotional connection for residents with cognitive challenges.
Helping the Foundation Expand Access & Community Outreach
Donations and sponsorships support community initiatives, educational events, caregiver resources, and outreach programs that help families navigate elder care with compassion and clarity. Fensterman’s involvement contributes to long-term sustainability for these essential services.
Why His Work Matters
Senior care is often under-recognized, yet it impacts nearly every family at some point in life. The Parker Jewish Institute Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring aging adults receive respect, medical support, and meaningful engagement. Howard Fensterman’s philanthropy reflects a commitment to those values, reinforcing not just medical care but human care.
His efforts help guarantee that the individuals who once worked, raised families, built communities, and shaped future generations receive the support they deserve in their later years.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Fensterman’s charitable work extends across healthcare, education, and community organizations — but support for the Parker Jewish Institute Foundation stands out as part of his ongoing dedication to improving lives through compassionate service. His contributions represent more than financial assistance; they help sustain a healthcare environment rooted in empathy, dignity, and excellence.
Howard Fensterman has supported the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation for more than two decades, helping advance research, patient education, and community support for individuals living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Through long-standing service on the Long Island Chapter Board of Trustees and sustained fundraising leadership, his involvement has contributed to expanded medical research initiatives, improved treatment awareness, and enhanced resources for families affected by inflammatory bowel disease.
Fensterman’s commitment reflects a broader philanthropic focus on improving healthcare outcomes and quality of life through meaningful, long-term engagement with mission-driven organizations. This article highlights his meaningful contributions and ongoing commitment to improving the lives of people living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s Mission and Community Impact
The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is the leading nonprofit dedicated to curing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis while improving the quality of life for those affected. The organization invests heavily in medical research, patient education, advocacy, youth programs, and community support networks.
Local chapters, such as the Long Island Chapter supported by Fensterman, play a central role. They connect patients to critical resources, host educational workshops, raise research funds, sponsor youth camps, and provide direct support for families managing chronic illness. Their success depends on local leaders who bring visibility, funding, and strategic guidance to the Foundation’s mission.
Fensterman’s Contributions and Leadership Role
Board Service and Governance
As a member of the Board of Trustees for the Long Island Chapter, Howard Fensterman has contributed to planning, decision-making, fundraising strategy, and program development. His involvement ensures that the Foundation’s regional initiatives remain strong, well-funded, and aligned with the needs of local communities.
Major Philanthropic Support
Through generous financial contributions, Fensterman has supported medical research, patient education programs, and critical outreach efforts. His giving has helped expand the Foundation’s impact and continue its progress toward improving treatments and working toward a cure.
Why His Support Matters
Inflammatory bowel diseases affect millions of people nationwide, including families across Long Island. The Foundation’s work is heavily dependent on private donors, volunteer leadership, and active community involvement. Supporters like Fensterman help sustain medical breakthroughs, expand education programs, and strengthen patient advocacy.
By combining professional influence with philanthropic action, he helps the Foundation reach more families, fund more research, and offer greater support to individuals navigating chronic illness.
A Commitment to Community Well-Being
Howard’s relationship with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation represents a larger philosophy that guides his charitable work. For him, philanthropy is most meaningful when it elevates communities, empowers families, and strengthens organizations dedicated to improving lives.
His contributions echo the broader mission of Howard Fensterman Charities: supporting institutions that provide health, education, and hope for individuals in need. Through consistent involvement, active engagement, and generous giving, Fensterman continues to make a significant difference in the lives of those facing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
DonateHoward Fensterman’s long-standing philanthropy with the United Hospital Fund reflects his commitment to strengthening New York’s healthcare system, expanding patient support, and advancing community wellness. His contributions help improve hospital quality, fund critical research, and ensure that underserved populations receive equitable access to care.
Howard Fensterman has built a reputation not only as an accomplished attorney and managing partner at Abrams Fensterman, LLP, but also as a dedicated philanthropist whose work supports the health and well-being of New Yorkers. One of his most meaningful charitable partnerships is his involvement with the United Hospital Fund (UHF). This nonprofit organization works to improve healthcare quality, support hospitals, and enhance public-health outcomes for communities throughout New York.
A Commitment to Strengthening New York’s Healthcare System Fensterman’s support for the United Hospital Fund aligns with his belief that strong, accessible healthcare is the foundation of a thriving society. UHF focuses on improving hospital performance, funding research, supporting frontline healthcare workers, and helping hospitals adapt to the evolving needs of patients. Fensterman’s philanthropic involvement ensures that these initiatives have the financial resources needed to expand and innovate.
Supporting Hospital Quality, Innovation, and Patient-Centered Care
Through UHF, Fensterman contributes to programs that directly impact hospitals across the state. These programs focus on:
• Improving patient safety and reducing preventable errors • Enhancing care coordination for vulnerable populations • Supporting digital transformation and modernization in hospital systems • Expanding maternal health, senior care, and chronic-condition support
His efforts help hospitals deliver better care while building sustainable systems that benefit millions of New Yorkers each year.
Advancing Health Equity for Underserved Communities
A core mission of the United Hospital Fund is to reduce disparities in healthcare access. Fensterman’s contributions support research, community outreach, and policy-driven initiatives that help close gaps for low-income families, seniors, and communities that face systemic healthcare obstacles. His philanthropy reinforces UHF’s broader vision of equitable, high-quality healthcare for everyone.
A Consistent Legacy of Service and Advocacy
Fensterman’s involvement with the United Hospital Fund is part of his wider philanthropic portfolio that includes support for medical research foundations, disability-advocacy programs, hospitals, youth development organizations, and community charities. His work with UHF exemplifies his ongoing commitment to improving lives and uplifting vulnerable populations.
How This Supports Howard Fensterman’s Mission
By contributing to the United Hospital Fund, Fensterman helps protect and strengthen the local healthcare network that millions depend on every day. His dedication underscores his belief in community responsibility, compassionate support, and the power of philanthropy to create lasting, positive change.
Howard Fensterman has been a longtime philanthropic advocate for Life’s WORC, supporting its mission to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His leadership, legal expertise, and charitable giving have strengthened programs that provide housing, employment training, family support, and community inclusion across New York. His contributions mentioned below continue to expand resources for some of the region’s most vulnerable residents.
A Legacy of Service and Community Impact
Howard has built a strong reputation not only as a respected attorney but also as a dedicated supporter of charitable causes throughout New York. One of the organizations closest to his heart is Life’s WORC, a leading nonprofit founded to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and autism. Over the years, Fensterman has offered philanthropic support, strategic guidance, and public advocacy to help expand the reach and effectiveness of this essential organization.
His involvement reflects a guiding belief: every individual deserves dignity, opportunity, and the ability to live a meaningful life in their community.
Life’s WORC: Supporting Individuals and Families for Over 50 Years
Life’s WORC began in the early 1970s following the investigative reporting of Geraldo Rivera, who exposed the horrific conditions at the Willowbrook State School. This led to a movement to create safe, supportive, and community-based alternatives for individuals with I/DD.
Today, Life’s WORC provides:
Residential homes and supportive housing
Behavioral health and clinical services
Employment and skills-training programs
Family support resources
Community enrichment programs
Fensterman’s charitable contributions help sustain and expand these transformative services.
How Howard Fensterman Supports Life’s WORC
Direct Charitable Giving
Fensterman has contributed financially to Life’s WORC for years, helping fund new programs, community homes, and service expansions. His generosity supports everything from residential upgrades to essential therapies and vocational training.
Legal and Strategic Guidance
As a leader in healthcare law and nonprofit governance, Fensterman brings legal insight that strengthens the organization’s operations. His understanding of regulations, funding structures, and compliance helps Life’s WORC continue delivering high-quality care to thousands of families.
Advocacy and Visibility through Schneps Media
Fensterman’s charitable work has been recognized and amplified through Schneps Media, one of New York’s largest local media networks. Schneps highlights community leaders, philanthropists, and organizations making a difference. Their coverage of Fensterman’s contributions helps increase awareness of Life’s WORC’s mission and encourages broader community support.
Long-Term Commitment to Disability Services
Fensterman’s involvement is not transactional—it reflects a long-term dedication to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. His consistent support helps the organization remain financially stable while planning for future growth.
Partnering Support for Disabilities
Howard Fensterman was fittingly recognized alongside Geraldo Rivera for his charitable leadership in helping those with disabilities at Life’s WORC’s Annual Geraldo Rivera Golf Classic. Rivera was reognized for his documented work and exposure of the horrific conditions at the Willowbrook State Schoo lfor the mentally disabled.
Fensterman’s continued support of Life’s WORC strengthens vital programs that serve children and adults with developmental disabilities, reflecting his deep commitment to expanding care and opportunity for vulnerable families across Long Island.
Why This Contribution Matters
The needs of individuals with I/DD and autism continue to grow as families seek more personalized support, accessible housing, and inclusive community opportunities. Fensterman’s continued contributions help:
Expand residential capacity
Improve therapeutic services
Strengthen educational and skills-training programs
Offer relief and resources for families and caregivers
Increase public awareness and advocacy
This is philanthropy with measurable, long-lasting impact.
A Donor Who Leads by Example
Many philanthropic leaders give financial support, but few match their contributions with hands-on involvement. Howard Fensterman supports Life’s WORC in a way that blends charity, leadership, and advocacy, ensuring the organization thrives today and remains strong for decades ahead.
His work serves as a reminder that meaningful community support requires both resources and responsibility—and he continues to demonstrate both.
Supporting Charitable Causes in Healthcare, Disabilities, and Community Development
Attorney Howard Fensterman Donates His Time to Help Others
Howard Fensterman Charities highlights the philanthropic work of attorney Howard Fensterman, whose donations support medical research, individuals with developmental disabilities, and community organizations that strengthen families and improve quality of life.
This website shares updates, stories, and initiatives supported by Howard to inspire others to give back and strengthen their communities.
A Leader in Compassionate Giving and Community Impact
Howard Fensterman’s philanthropy has strengthened healthcare systems, fueled groundbreaking medical research, and expanded essential community programs across New York and beyond. His longstanding support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities has opened doors to better care, greater independence, and improved lifelong opportunities.
Guided by a mission rooted in compassion, responsibility, and service, Howard’s philanthropy extends far beyond financial contributions. It reflects a deep commitment to elevating human dignity, empowering vulnerable populations, and investing in initiatives that create lasting, meaningful change.
Promoting Awareness and Funding for Diseases
Autoimmune Digestive Illnesses
He serves on the Long Island Chapter of the Board of Trustees of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation,helping raise awareness and funding for research aimed at improving the lives of those affected by inflammatory bowel disease. His ongoing involvement with CCFA reflects a dedication to improving treatment options, supporting families, and contributing to a future where better therapies and ultimately a cure can be realized.
His work with celiac disease focuses on advancing medical understanding, improving patient support, and raising public awareness about this often-misunderstood autoimmune condition. Through charitable contributions to research institutions and foundations dedicated to digestive health, he helps fund studies aimed at better diagnostics, improved treatments, and ultimately a cure.
Medical Research and Patient Support
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Howard’s donations help fund research, treatment programs, and support services for individuals living with serious or chronic conditions. His involvement contributes to expanding education, improving care, and giving families hope for better outcomes.
He is a contributor to Heart to Heart. A nonprofit healthcare organization committed to ensuring that critical medical aid reaches the people who rely on it most. Additionally, he supports the United Hospital Fund. An organization that helps advance its initiative to improve hospital performance, advance healthcare research, and support frontline providers, while ensuring hospitals can continue meeting the changing needs of the patients they care for.
Volunteers preparing to help residents of NC after the hurricane. Photo: SMS
Howard Fensterman’s work with the NuHealth Foundation reflects his commitment to strengthening community healthcare on Long Island. Through his support of Nassau University Medical Center and related health programs, he helps expand access to essential services for families and underserved residents. To learn more about his contributions and the Foundation’s impact, please visit the full article on NuHealth.
Fensterman’s philanthropy also extends to The Pat Cairo Family Foundation, an organization dedicated to fighting cancer through research funding and community support. His involvement reflects a commitment to backing mission-driven medical initiatives that improve patient outcomes and strengthen local health-focused nonprofit efforts.
Howard is also an avid supporter of the Parker Jewish Institute in New Hyde Park, NY, helping senior patients and residents access compassionate healthcare, rehabilitative services, and long-term support that enhance quality of life and dignity in later years.
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Gluten intolerance: Child refuses to eat white bread.
Howard supports charities that provide residential programs, job training, therapeutic services, and community inclusion for individuals with special needs. His work spans decades and focuses on organizations that offer real, measurable impact.
Howard also contributes to Life’s WORC, which promotes independence, dignity, and meaningful opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities.
Community, Faith, and Education
Howard believes in strengthening local communities by supporting organizations that offer educational resources, family programs, outreach initiatives, and community-building activities. His philanthropic approach goes beyond financial contributions. It reflects a belief that education, support services, and accessible programs create lasting change.
By investing in youth development, family assistance programs, and organizations that bring people together, Howard plays a role in fostering environments where children can learn, families can thrive, and communities can grow stronger. His involvement helps expand access to opportunities, enhance local programming, and encourage a culture of giving that benefits neighborhoods for generations to come.
Jewish Philanthropy & Community Leadership
Mr. Fensterman has a deep and long-standing association with Chabad of Port Washington. Since 2008, he has served on its Board of Trustees, helping guide decisions affecting everything from the synagogue and preschool to the day school, Hebrew school, camp, mikvah, and adult-education programs.
Mr. Fensterman and his son Jordan were honored at Chabad
As a sign of his commitment, Fensterman has taken on leadership roles — at times acting as Dinner Chairman for the community’s annual fundraising dinners, and in 2016, he and his son, Jordan, were honored with the “Dor L’Dor: Generation to Generation” award for their philanthropy and service.
Advancing Catholic Education Through Futures in Education
Howard is recognized as a supporter of Futures in Education, an organization within the Diocese of Brooklyn that provides scholarships and tuition assistance to students who might otherwise be unable to afford a Catholic education. His involvement reflects a commitment to helping children from low-income families access academic opportunities that can shape their future. Through this connection, Fensterman plays a part in strengthening educational programs in Brooklyn and Queens by supporting initiatives that help students learn, grow, and succeed.
Family Health Challenges
Through his philanthropy, Howard contributes to programs that highlight the challenges families of loved ones who have unusual or rare diseases endure, and he promotes efforts that expand access to information, community support, and research initiatives. His involvement strengthens the organization’s ability to amplify patient stories, increase public understanding, and inspire hope for better treatments and improved quality of life.
How to Get Involved
Learn about the charities: Explore the organizations Howard supports and the programs that benefit from philanthropy.
Support these causes: Donations of any size help expand services and bring resources to people who need them. Find the links on our donation pages.
Stay informed: Follow updates and stories about the impact of charitable work and the progress of the communities served.
Explore our guide to informed charitable giving, including how nonprofits operate, how donations are used, and how to give with confidence.
DonateCeliac disease is an illness in which the body’s immune system mistakenly perceives healthy tissues as foreign particles and subsequently attacks them. It is labeled as an autoimmune disorder. In celiac disease, the immune system reacts negatively to foods containing gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Instead of digesting gluten normally like other people, those with celiac disease experience inflammation and subsequent damage in their small intestine whenever they eat gluten. Let’s dive deeper into celiac disease.
A young woman on a gluten-free diet is saying no thanks.
Gluten: The Troublemaker
Even a tiny crumb of gluten can trigger a reaction in those with this illness. How can that be? Well, the immune system’s response to Celiac damages the villi, which are tiny finger-like structures in the small intestine that absorb nutrients from digested food; in other words, over time, this damage can lead to malnutrition, digestive issues, and other serious health problems.
What Foods Contain Gluten?
Gluten is primarily found in wheat, barley, rye, and sometimes oats.Still, it can also be obtained from other sources, namely, cross-contamination, which is the transfer of harmful bacteria from one surface to another.
Here are some common gluten-containing foods:
Grains & Breads
White, whole wheat, multigrain, and sourdough bread
Bagels, croissants, and rolls
Pasta (unless labeled gluten-free)
Crackers and some chips
Cereals (unless labeled gluten-free)
Baked Goods
Cakes, cookies, muffins, and pastries
Pie crusts and brownies
Doughnuts and waffles
Processed and Packaged Foods
Processed foods are not the healthiest foods to eat, and for those who are not in the best of health, they can be worse. Here are some processed foods that are popular among many folks.
Many soups and sauces (thickened with wheat flour)
Soy sauce (contains wheat, unless gluten-free)
Salad dressings and gravies
Some processed meats (sausages, hot dogs, and deli meats)
Beer (made from barley)
Other Sources
Malt-based products (like malt vinegar and malted milk)
Some candies and chocolate bars
Breaded or battered foods (fried chicken, fish sticks, onion rings)
Always check the labels for hidden ingredients.
Symptoms: More Than Just a Stomach Ache
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Celiac disease isn’t just about stomach pain or bloating, although those are common symptoms. The symptoms can show up in all sorts of ways, including:
Fatigue and brain fog are making it hard to concentrate
Digestive issues like diarrhea, constipation, and gas
Iron deficiency anemia, due to poor nutrient absorption
Some people don’t experience these noticeable symptoms, making diagnosis tricky. This is why celiac disease is often undiagnosed or mistaken for other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
How is Celiac Disease Diagnosed?
The first step is usually a blood test. This particular test is used to search for antibodies linked to gluten consumption. If the results are positive, a doctor may recommend an intestinal biopsy to check for damage to the villi. During this testing period, it is recommended to keep eating gluten until testing is complete, as stopping gluten beforehand can lead to inaccurate results.
The Only Treatment: A Strict Gluten-Free Diet
Unfortunately, at this time, there’s no cure for celiac disease, but the good news is that it can be managed by eliminating gluten from the diet. This means avoiding foods like bread, pasta, cereals, and even some sauces or processed foods that may contain hidden gluten.
Thankfully, awareness of celiac disease has grown, and gluten-free options are now widely available. Grocery stores stock gluten-free bread, pasta, and snacks, and many restaurants offer gluten-free menus. However, cross-contamination is a big concern, so people with celiac disease must be vigilant regarding the dishes and utensils they use when eating out of the house.
Living With Celiac: Challenges and Silver Linings
Adjusting to a gluten-free lifestyle can be challenging at first. Learning how to read the ingredients on the food labels takes time, but it does get more manageable for most people. Many feel significantly better once they remove gluten from their diet. They can experience more energy, fewer digestive issues, and improved health.
Additionally, there are growing gluten-free communities, offering plenty of support through online forums, local meetups, and advocacy groups. Raising awareness helps make life easier for celiac patients and encourages better options in restaurants and stores.
Final Thoughts
Celiac disease is much more than a simple gluten intolerance. It is a serious autoimmune condition that requires lifelong care. With proper diagnosis and a strict gluten-free diet, people with celiac disease can live healthy, fulfilling lives. So the next time someone tells you they have celiac disease, you’ll know why they’re avoiding gluten, how important it is for their health, and how you should accommodate them should they be in your home. And who knows? You might even discover some delicious gluten-free recipes along the way!
For a comprehensive overview of efforts that strengthen communities, visit Community4Celiac.com. To learn more about Howard’s philanthropic leadership, please visit our main page for additional details about Howard’s charitable support and community impact.
Child Life and Educational Services of the North Shore LIJ Health System honored Howard Fensterman for his outstanding dedication to the hospital.
The New Leadership Division of the North Shore – LIJ Hospital has said “We salute the members of the New Leadership division for their selfless devotion to improving the quality of life for hospitalized children”.
“A special thanks to our honoree” Howard Fensterman for his generosity and service to the children, and our heartfelt appreciation to the family of the late Gary M. Sherman for his many years of dedicated leadership.”
The North Shore–LIJ Health System is one of the largest integrated health systems in the United States.
