Understanding Celiac Disease
May is Celiac Awareness Month and Wild Zora wants to help you understand the disease that affects an estimated 1 in 133 people in the US.
Over the past few years, gluten-free diets have become extremely trendy. But for those diagnosed with celiac disease, adopting a gluten-free diet is not a fad, but a vital treatment.
Celiac disease is a severe autoimmune disorder in which gluten, the protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, causes damage to the lining of the small intestine. This damage can lead to serious side effects like malabsorption, anemia, thyroid disease and osteoporosis. Currently, the only known treatment is a strict gluten-free diet.
Of the roughly 3 million people in the United States who have celiac disease, only 10% of them have been diagnosed. There are more than 300 symptoms of celiac disease, but the most common are digestive discomfort, recurring headaches, skin rashes, chronic infection, depression/anxiety and body fatigue. If you are experiencing these symptoms and believe gluten to be the cause, it’s important to consult with a trained healthcare professional.
Managing celiac disease and maintaining a 100% gluten-free diet can be difficult. Gluten lurks in many foods, beauty products and even medications. Avoiding it takes vigilance and often means planning ahead. Check out the links below for resources and tips on living with celiac disease:
Wild Zora is proud to make delicious snacks that are completely gluten-free. Our snack bars provide a safe and nutritious on-the-go option for people with celiac disease.