Living with Coeliac Disease: Why My Gluten-Free Life Isn't a 'Red Flag'

2025-05-17
Living with Coeliac Disease: Why My Gluten-Free Life Isn't a 'Red Flag'
Metro

I’ve heard it all before. “So, you’re gluten-free? Just a trend, right?” Or, the less subtle, “You’re a red flag because of your diet.” It’s frustrating, to say the least. For many, choosing to avoid gluten is a lifestyle preference. But for me, it’s a medical necessity – I live with coeliac disease.

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects millions worldwide, yet it remains surprisingly misunderstood. It’s not about being picky or following a fad; it's about survival. When someone with coeliac disease consumes gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye – their immune system mistakenly attacks the small intestine. This attack damages the villi, tiny finger-like projections that line the intestine and are crucial for nutrient absorption.

Imagine your body essentially sabotaging its own ability to get the vitamins and minerals it needs from food. That’s the reality of coeliac disease. The consequences can be severe, ranging from digestive issues like bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, to more serious long-term complications such as anemia, osteoporosis, and even an increased risk of certain cancers.

The diagnosis journey itself can be lengthy and challenging. Many people experience vague symptoms that are easily dismissed or misdiagnosed. It’s often a process of elimination, involving numerous tests and consultations with specialists.

So, when someone labels my gluten-free lifestyle as a “red flag,” it’s not just dismissive; it's insensitive to the daily challenges I face managing this chronic condition. It overlooks the careful planning, constant vigilance, and the potential health risks involved in navigating a world where gluten is so prevalent.

Living gluten-free isn't always easy. It requires meticulous label reading, constant communication with restaurants and food providers, and a degree of social planning. But it's a small price to pay for maintaining my health and well-being.

Instead of seeing my dietary needs as a burden or a “red flag,” I hope people can understand that it’s simply a part of who I am and a necessary step to living a healthy, fulfilling life. It's about managing a medical condition, not making a lifestyle choice. And perhaps, a little more understanding and empathy can go a long way.

What you can do to help:

  • Educate yourself: Learn more about coeliac disease and the importance of gluten-free living.
  • Be mindful: When dining out or preparing food, ask about ingredients and cross-contamination risks.
  • Offer support: Acknowledge and validate the challenges faced by individuals with coeliac disease.

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