With the online world at our fingertips, it has never been more important to ensure people have accurate and evidence-based information that they can rely on. Many so-called online ‘experts’ will also share their knowledge in such a persuasive manner that it is hard to distinguish between fact and fiction or in some cases fantasy.
Incorrect information about coeliac disease has often been around for years and has spread like wildfire, so much so that it becomes ingrained in society, often becoming a ‘myth’. Whilst science evolves and more research becomes available, we need to ensure we dispel these myths, as they can often have detrimental effects on the lives of people living with coeliac disease.
Here are some common misconceptions that people with coeliac disease will often be exposed to.
Coeliac Disease is ‘just’ a dietary fad.
WRONG. Coeliac disease is a medically diagnosed auto-immune disease that affects approximately 1 in 100 people. Left untreated this disease can be associated with potentially life-threatening complications. The ONLY current medical treatment for coeliac disease is a life-long adherence to a gluten-free diet. It is not a lifestyle choice; it is a necessity.
A little bit of gluten is okay.
WRONG. Ingesting even small amounts of gluten (even 1/100th of a slice of bread) can be harmful in coeliac disease. Persistent ingestion of these small amounts can not only cause damage to the small bowel but can increase the risk of complications such as osteoporosis and lymphoma.
My child will outgrow coeliac disease.
WRONG. Coeliac disease is a life-long condition that requires a life-long adherence to a gluten-free diet for the best health and to avoid complications. There is currently research worldwide looking for more treatment options that may one day remove the need for the gluten-free diet, however, this is still ongoing, and the medical treatment stands as ‘gluten-free diet for life’.
Grain-fed meat/poultry and eggs contain gluten.
WRONG. Regardless of the diet of the animal, all products from that animal are gluten free. Any gluten eaten by the animal is broken down through digestion and the gluten is not incorporated into the animal’s tissue.
There are plenty more examples of incorrect and misleading information that are in the public forum around coeliac disease. If you are in doubt about any information you receive, please talk with your trusted health professional in the first instance.
Coeliac New Zealand aim to provide trusted information and resources and the public can be directed to our website www.coeliac.org.nz for more information.
Article provided by the Coeliac New Zealand Dietary Education Manager Suzanne Aitken.