A new Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics study has investigated how the recent proliferation of the gluten-free industry has affected individuals living with celiac disease.
In interviews with 17 adults with celiac disease living in Canada, participants experienced the growth of the gluten-free industry as a “double-edged sword.” While they were grateful for more palatable gluten-free options, they were increasingly faced with misunderstandings about the severity of celiac disease due to many non-celiac disease individuals subscribing to the gluten-free diet.
This made certain types of social situations more easily manageable—for example, there were more gluten-free options available at restaurants; however, others produced distress, such as worry about an increased risk of inadvertently consuming gluten. Participants also felt that they may be perceived, or even perceived themselves, as high maintenance.
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