Misconceptions on celiac disease

The month of May is celiac awareness month across Canada. About one per cent of the population (some still undiagnosed) have celiac disease. Approximately another five per cent have non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

The treatment for both these conditions is a gluten-free diet. Over time many misconceptions and myths around celiac disease and the gluten-free diet have arisen.

On Tuesday, May 29, 7 p.m., at Royalty Center, 40 Enman Crescent, the P.E.I. Chapter of the Canadian Celiac Association wants to debunk some misconceptions and myths around celiac disease.

This myth busting will have the expertise of Dr. Jenni Zelin, family physician, former recipient of the J.A. Campbell Young Investigators Award and a member of the Canadian Celiac Association Professional Advisory Council.

Most people think that symptoms of celiac disease are strictly those of the digestive system such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.

Some not so well-known symptoms include anemia with fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches and weakness; neurological disorders including neuropathy, ataxia, poor co-ordination, slurred speech and reproductive disorders including infertility, miscarriages and menstrual disorders.

These misconceptions will be on the agenda.

Other myths include some connected to drinking beer, medical testing, shampoos and cosmetics, eating out, and barbecuing and deep frying.

Island-owned Duinkerken Foods will be on hand with their gluten-free products.

Jean Eldershaw,

Morell