Dangerous grains
The holidays are coming, and this means dining with friends and family. But for those who have to avoid foods containing gluten, a meal at a restaurant can be stressful — even dangerous.
About 1% of people in the US have celiac disease. It’s an autoimmune condition in which ingestion of gluten can lead to damage to the small intestine. Exposed suffers can experience nausea, cramping and diarrhea. Complications can include malnutrition, osteoporosis and cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. There’s no cure, only managing the symptoms with over-the-counter medications.
It’s crucial that people with celiac don’t consume any gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat, rye and barley, since many small exposures can “impact your health long-term,” says Julie Stefanski, a registered dietician and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
While many restaurants offer gluten-free options, Stefanski says it’s vital that people with celiac share their sensitivities with staff and ask how dishes are prepared.
For gluten-free orders, does the staff change their gloves or use a special prep area and utensils that haven’t touched gluten? Knowing ingredients is key — gluten can be found in soy sauce, milkshakes and salad dressings. French fries cooked in oil that’s also been used to fry battered items can be dangerous. And, Stefanski adds, “people don’t always realize how often flour is added to a sauce.”
There are apps like Find Me Gluten Free and Gluten Dude that can help locate restaurants with gluten-free options. Celiac patients should also check a restaurant’s website to learn how it handles gluten-free items. Some venues train their staff through programs by the Food Allergy Research and Education nonprofit, or FARE.
Critics might grumble about all the extra efforts made to accommodate celiac sufferers when they could just dine at home. But Stefanski says they have the right “to enjoy the socialization of eating out — and having something that they didn’t prepare for themselves.” — Miguel Ambriz
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