Coeliac UK reposted this
In 2021 I was diagnosed with coeliac disease, which is a lifelong autoimmune condition where the body attacks itself when gluten is consumed. I was surprised at the diagnosis, as my symptoms weren't typical. May is coeliac awareness month so I'm sharing my story to raise awareness of the symptoms and how you can support people with coeliac disease. One in 100 people are thought to have coeliac disease, but only 36% are diagnosed. The symptoms aren't always obvious; for me it was years of unexplained migraines and only in the months before diagnosis did the symptoms become more widespread. Other lesser-known symptoms can include dermatitis, unexplained infertility, anaemia and extreme fatigue. The treatment for coeliac disease is a diet completely free from gluten. Although the treatment sounds simple, the reality can be much harder particularly when travelling or in unfamiliar places. Symptoms vary from person to person, but for me a few rogue crumbs can be the difference between a nice meal out and a 5 day migraine. Coeliacs can never have a 'day off' and decide that the cake looks too good to say no to, the gut will still be damaged and the recovery will take weeks. Here are a couple of ways you can help support coeliacs or people with dietary needs in the workplace: 👉 Involve us - if you're planning an event, make sure there's food we can eat. I'm grateful that at WWF-UK events are always inclusive and I never have to miss out, but I know other people aren't so fortunate. It can be incredibly awkward standing around while other people are eating, and naturally gluten free food and gluten free alternatives aren't hard to come by with a bit of forward planning. 👉 Help keep us safe - for coeliacs, a rogue crumb or a misread food label can be a big problem. Cross-contamination is also a huge concern - shared utensils, cooking gluten free foods in the same oil as gluten containing foods and shared food prep spaces are all a red flag. If you're catering for coeliacs or those with dietary needs, make sure food is prepared and served separately. If you're eating out, when choosing a venue make sure you ask questions and ensure they're clued up on dietary needs. Coeliac disease is something I've learned to live with now, although I still miss croissants on an almost daily basis. If you think you might have coeliac disease, take an assessment with Coeliac UK and speak to your GP 👉 https://lnkd.in/dTX-3zmF #CoeliacStories 📸 proof that coeliacs can never have a day off - our incredible gluten free wedding cake