What is Celiac?
A lot of people often changes their diet to a gluten-free diet, but for people with celiac disease, a gluten-free diet is a MUST!
According to celiac.org Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disease that occurs in genetically predisposed people where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. It is estimated to affect 1 in 100 people worldwide. Two and one-half million Americans are undiagnosed and are at risk for long-term health complications. It often causes diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating and anemia, and can lead to serious complications. In children, malabsorption can affect growth and development.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein that is found in grains like wheat, rye, spelt and barley. Gluten acts like glue to help certain foods maintain their shape like pasta, cereals bread, etc.
Celiac Symptoms in Adults Includes:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Anemia
- Headaches or general fatigue
- Bone or joint pain
- Mouth ulcers
- Weight loss
- Heartburn
In Children:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating or swelling in the belly
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Pale, foul-smelling stool (steatorrhea)
- Weight loss
A strict, lifelong gluten-free diet is the only way to manage celiac disease. Your doctor might also recommend vitamin and mineral supplements. If you feel any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is best to see your doctor especially if you have someone in the family that has a similar illness because it is hereditary.
Cafe Lotus offers plenty of gluten-free dishes from their menu. Download a guide of what you can eat if you have celiac or gluten intolerance at the bottom of our menu page. Lotus’ staff can help you choose items that are truly gluten-free, including being prepared so as to avoid cross-contamination. Please tell your gluten-free friends to visit Cafe Lotus and Lotus Cuisine of India and try our gluten-free cuisine. They will be glad you did!