Understanding Gluten Free Diets & Coeliac Disease.
As a Holiday Cottage Host wanting to provide outstanding services to your guests, it can help to have a good understanding of any dietary requests that your guests may make before arrival. One of the most common ones that we come across and the main ones that guests are likely to point out before arrival is that they are ‘gluten-free’, wheat intolerant, or Coeliac Disease. The terms “gluten-free” or “coeliac disease” refer to different but related concepts:
Gluten-Free: Gluten-Free refers to a diet or food products that do not contain gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and it can be present in many types of bread, pasta, cereals, and even in less obvious products like sauces and some processed foods. This diet is essential for people with celiac disease, but it’s also adopted by individuals with non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), wheat allergies, or those who choose to avoid gluten for other health or personal reasons. In recent years, gluten-free options have become widely available in supermarkets and restaurants.
Coeliac Disease: Coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder. When someone with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system responds by damaging the lining of the small intestine. This can lead to various health problems, ranging from gastrointestinal symptoms to nutrient deficiencies. Coeliac disease is diagnosed through specific medical tests. The only current treatment for celiac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. Even small amounts of gluten can cause damage to the intestine in people with celiac disease.
In summary, “gluten-free” is a dietary choice or necessity that involves avoiding gluten-containing foods, while “coeliac” refers specifically to the autoimmune disorder that requires a gluten-free diet for proper management. It’s important to note that while all people with celiac disease must follow a gluten-free diet, not everyone who eats gluten-free has celiac disease. Some people choose a gluten-free diet for other health reasons or personal preferences.
If you would like to learn more about how you can help your guests who may have dietary requirements for their stay we would recommend you explore the following websites and blogs for more information:
Coeliac UK – Coeliac UK are a charity to help those who need to live without gluten.
Becky Excell – a best selling author and full-time gluten free food writer. with excellent tips and tricks for those who do need to follow a strict gluten-free diet.
