What is Celiac Disease?
May is Celiac Disease Awareness Month!
Many of us have seen the rise in gluten-free options offered at restaurants and grocery stores, but there are still some who do not fully understand why? The reason is celiac disease. To fully understand celiac, you also must understand Gluten.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and triticale. This protein is what gives food its shape. It acts as the glue that holds the food together. You may find gluten in various products – even ones that would not be expected.
Celiac disease is an auto-immune disease, where the immune system identifies the gluten protein as a threat. This triggers a response from the immune system that causes range of issues, mostly in the small intestine, that can have devasting effects on a person’s body.
It is estimated that 1% of the Canadian population has celiac disease and far more are affected by a gluten-intolerance. This has led to a huge rise in gluten-free options and better labeling throughout Canada and the world.
If you are looking to make a celiac-friendly meal, keep rice in mind!
Rice is a naturally a 100% gluten-free grain. Also, with a bit of research you can find many substitutes for your favorite dishes. Most importantly, when buying products that may not traditionally have gluten in them, for example sauces, make sure they still have a gluten-free certification. Even cross contamination in the processing of food can cause a negative reaction. For example, Dainty operates a fully gluten-free certified facility, certified by GFCP (Gluten Free Certification Program).
Celiac is a very serious condition that warrants the extra care and attention needed to create delicious food. To understand more about celiac disease and gluten-intolerance we recommend you visit the following websites:
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