Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder that affects approximately one in one hundred people worldwide. The condition causes the body's immune system to react to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, resulting in damage to the lining of the small intestine. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and malnutrition. The only treatment is a strict gluten-free diet, which can be challenging to maintain. Several organisations and brands provide resources, support, and sampling opportunities to assist individuals in managing this condition.
Celiac Disease Awareness and Support Organisations
The National Celiac Association (NCA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organisation dedicated to educating and advocating for individuals with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivities, their families, and communities. The NCA provides educational webinars, roundtable events, and informational videos addressing topics of interest for various demographic groups within the community. They co-host a webinar series with the Harvard Medical School Celiac Education and Research program called "All Things Celiac," with links to recorded events available on the NCA Webinars page.
The NCA offers a variety of resources, including a search function for restaurants with gluten-free menus, a gluten-free recipe index, and a resource centre. They also provide tips for stretching budgets and allow users to search FAQs or ask questions. For those newly diagnosed, the NCA hosts a Virtual Support Group meeting called "Living Gluten Free," which is open to everyone regardless of how long they have been diagnosed. This group provides a space to share experiences or listen and learn. Additionally, the NCA offers information on research studies relating to celiac disease and podcasts on the evaluation and management of the condition.
Raising Our Celiac Kids (ROCK) is a program offered by the NCA specifically for kids, teens, and their parents or caregivers to help navigate experiences unique to that age group. The organisation also provides resources for seniors with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to help them live their best lives.
Gluten-Free Food Donation Programmes
Feeding Gluten Free is a programme that coordinates donations of gluten-free food to where known need exists, pays for shipping of these donations, and purchases gluten-free food when necessary. This programme also works with individuals to help identify local resources, prepare affordable gluten-free meals and snacks, and maximise grocery budgets.
Gluten-Free Restaurant Chains in the USA
For those with celiac disease, eating out can be a challenge. However, many USA restaurant chains offer gluten-free menus, making it easier to enjoy a meal out. It is important to communicate dietary restrictions with the server and ask them to take extra precautions when preparing food to avoid cross-contamination. Restaurants should train their staff to understand the severity of celiac disease and the importance of following written procedures when preparing and serving gluten-free food, including using separate utensils, cookware, and surfaces.
Outback Steakhouse, a popular chain specializing in steak and seafood, offers a gluten-free menu that includes appetizers, salads, entrees, and sides. Examples of safe items include the Victoria's Filet, the Queensland Chicken and Shrimp Pasta, and the Garlic Mashed Potatoes.
PF Chang's, an Asian-themed restaurant chain, offers a dedicated gluten-free menu that includes a variety of starters, soups, salads, entrees, and sides.
Other restaurant chains mentioned as offering gluten-free menus include Red Robin. It is recommended to check each restaurant's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on their gluten-free menu options.
Gluten-Free Product Sampling and Subscription Boxes
May is recognised as Celiac Disease Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and support the gluten-free community. During this time, curated subscription boxes featuring gluten-free brands are available. The May 2025 Love Me Gluten Free subscription box featured several standout gluten-free brands and included exclusive discounts for subscribers and readers of Good For You Gluten Free.
Featured Brands in the May 2025 Box
- Canyon Bakehouse: This brand creates soft gluten-free bread. Their Ancient Grain Loaf is made with ingredients such as quinoa, millet, and sorghum. They also offer frozen sourdough.
- Egglife Wraps: These wraps are described as a game-changer for gluten-free living.
- WOW Cookies: This cookie brand offers certified gluten-free products. While Chocolate Chip is a popular flavour, Key Lime White Chocolate is also available.
Included Gift
The May 2025 box also included a reusable silicone food storage bag. This leakproof bag is durable and designed to keep food fresh while reducing waste. It is suitable for storing gluten-free sandwiches, fruits, vegetables, snacks, or leftovers.
Subscription Details
The May 2025 box has sold out. However, a waitlist is available for the next box. Joining the waitlist provides first access when the cart opens for the following month.
Celiac Disease Symptoms and Diagnosis
There are over two hundred symptoms of celiac disease, and they vary widely. There is no typical case, and many people do not experience the gastrointestinal symptoms previously thought to typify the condition. These individuals often face a delay in diagnosis. Symptoms may affect different parts of the body. Children with celiac disease may exhibit the same symptoms as adults, as well as others. It is important to note that this information is not intended for self-diagnosis, and individuals should see a healthcare provider for personalised healthcare needs. Some symptoms may persist even on a gluten-free diet, but most will resolve.
Conclusion
Resources for individuals with celiac disease in the UK and US include educational webinars, support groups, and food donation programmes. Brands such as Canyon Bakehouse, Egglife, and WOW provide certified gluten-free products, with sampling opportunities available through subscription boxes like Love Me Gluten Free. When eating out, communicating with restaurant staff about dietary restrictions and cross-contamination procedures is essential for safety.