There’s always been a bit of a question as to whether May or October is the official Celiac Awareness Month. Personally, I believe we should embrace both months since it gives us an additional opportunity to educate ourselves as well as family and friends!
According to a Gallop poll released last year, even more Americans are now actively trying to eat gluten-free foods: One in five! Even though that’s a significant number, the majority (58%) of those polled said they don’t even think about it. Even if those folks aren’t suffering the ill effects of consuming gluten, it’s still important to educate them about celiac disease and gluten sensitivity because they’re also the family members, friends, neighbors and could possibly be the food professionals in our communities who serve those who must adhere to a gluten-free lifestyle. Without proper knowledge they may think that gluten-free living is just a fad or craze and not take it seriously, which puts the health of those who must eat gluten-free at risk.
Please encourage the local food market where you shop for Glutenfreeda products to celebrate Celiac Awareness this month! And if you have the opportunity, share your personal story with someone about why you eat gluten-free. You never know, that conversation may change a life for the better...or perhaps even save one.
- Jessica Hale, Co-Founder, Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President of Glutenfreeda Foods, Inc.