Family support is key for those suffering with the disease

MARY Twohig, Chairperson of the Coeliac Society of Ireland says that a diagnosis of coeliac disease can be a difficult adjustment but with some planning and family support it’s possible to live a full and healthy life.

“We would encourage friends and family of a person diagnosed as coeliac to learn a little about the disease so that those diagnosed don’t feel left out of family occasions.

“The Coeliac Society website have top tips for hosting/cooking for a coeliac person both in and out of home,” she said

SOME TOP TIPS FOR HOSTING A COELIAC GUEST AT YOUR HOME INCLUDE:

Discuss what you plan to cook with your coeliac guest (or their parent, if it’s a child) in advance. Often a meal can be made gluten free with some minor tweaks.

Cook gluten free food separately, if using a deep fat fryer ensure the oil is changed if it was previously used to cook a gluten containing food. If using a toaster, try toaster bags to ensure gluten free bread is not contaminated.

Sharing is not always caring where a coeliac guest is concerned. For example, using the same butter knife for standard and gluten-free bread could make your guest ill. Allow your guest to serve themselves first at a buffet meal to avoid cross contamination. Providing a separate dish for butter or dips is also a good idea.

Discuss what you plan to cook with your coeliac guest in advance. Often a meal can be made gluten free with some minor tweaks.