The Coeliac Society of Ireland is raising awareness of some important indicators of coeliac disease during Coeliac Awareness Week 2023.
The society is concerned that the disease remains overlooked by many as a serious health issue.
Sarah Keogh, Head Dietician, Coeliac Society of Ireland said Coeliac Disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can lead to a range of health risks if left untreated.
"Some of the potential health risks associated with coeliac disease include malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility and miscarriage, increased risk of lymphoma, neurological conditions, dental defects and short stature in children to name a few. Coeliac disease affects almost 2 in every 100 people in Ireland, yet 75% of those with the disease, 62,250 children and adults, remain undiagnosed, leading to long-term health problems.”
To raise awareness of common indicators the society has listed four of the most identifiable indicators to look out for.
Up to 20% of people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome actually have coeliac disease? Symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea and constipation turn up in both coeliac disease and irritable bowel syndrome, so it is important to rule out coeliac disease if you have IBS, especially if you also have low iron or B12 levels, low vitamin D or folate levels, osteoporosis, an underactive thyroid or fertility problems.
Coeliac disease can also be indicated by lactose intolerance, with up to 24% of people who have lactose intolerance having coeliac disease. Getting tested for coeliac disease is important if you have lactose intolerance. Those diagnosed can often return to dairy products once on a gluten free diet as most people can go back to eating lactose with no problems.
Low levels of Vitamin B12 are common when people are diagnosed with coeliac disease. Many people have had low B12 levels for years before getting tested for coeliac disease. Coeliac Society members have reported having B12 injections or other treatments for a long time, which they no longer need once they adopt a gluten-free diet. Signs of B12 deficiency include feeling very tired, mouth ulcers, sore or red tongue, double vision, memory problems, and pins and needles in fingers and toes.
Iron deficiency is a common symptom of coeliac disease, with up to 50% of those diagnosed with the condition experiencing low iron levels. Chronic fatigue, digestive problems and balance issues may also result from coeliac disease.
To prevent long-term health problems, it is important to get tested for coeliac disease and to adopt a strict gluten-free diet. During Coeliac Awareness Week 2023, the Coeliac Society of Ireland is encouraging people to pay attention to common conditions that may indicate coeliac disease and to get tested if necessary. Advice on how to get an accurate test is available from the society.
Coeliac Awareness Week 2023, in partnership with Promise Gluten Free, runs from 15th- 20th May. People can register free of charge at www.coeliac.ie to attend advice talks, information meetings, dietetic clinics, cooking and catering demonstrations, and to find out more about coeliac disease and gluten intolerance. Kindly supported by by Promise Gluten Free, Coeliac Awareness Week is a must attend event for all people concerned about their gut health and living gluten free.
