Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that causes damage to the small intestine when gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye) is ingested. Celiac disease is more common in people with Down syndrome compared to people without Down syndrome. The GLOBAL Medical Care Guidelines for Adults with Down Syndrome include a section on celiac disease. 

There is an incredible amount of celiac disease information available on the internet. Below we have highlighted a few resources that may be useful for individuals with celiac disease.

Featured Resources

Sources of Gluten

“There are many food items that may contain gluten, often in hidden or unexpected ways. Always read the label of any food product you buy if ‘gluten-free’ is not specified on the label.”

Tax Deductions

“If you or one of your dependents has celiac disease and you itemize your deductions, the extra costs due to gluten-free dietary restrictions may be taken as a medical expense.”

Dining and Social Eating

“So much has been written, blogged, and vlogged about how to dine out gluten-free, and yet it all comes down to very simple steps: understand the diet, research your restaurants, ask questions, be prepared to not order your first choice, and always bring a back-up snack.”

Gluten Free Safe Spot Finder

“The Validated Gluten Free Safe Spot logo stands for the independent verification of quality, integrity, and purity of restaurants and businesses serving gluten-free food. Our validation is designed to establish trust with gluten-free patrons in the ability of a restaurant or facility to provide safe gluten-free food.”

Organizations

Celiac Disease Foundation

 

Beyond Celiac

 

National Celiac Association