Gluten-Free in the Workplace

It is easy to control and create a gluten-free space in your home. When you are a busy professional or always at the office, it can become a little more difficult at times. Business lunches and dinners with clients & co-workers are common.  It is something that most times, can't be avoided. Food is important in the workplace but it doesn't have to be stressful. And, remember, people simply just don't get how sick you can get from eating a small bite.  You have every right not to explain or discuss if you don't want to.  Your health is a private matter that is your choice to discuss with co-workers if needed. 

​What exactly is Celiac Disease? 

​According to the Mayo Clinic, Celiac disease, sometimes called celiac sprue or gluten-sensitive enteropathy, is an immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. If you have celiac disease, eating gluten triggers an immune response in your small intestine. Over time, this reaction damages your small intestine's lining and prevents it from absorbing some nutrients (malabsorption). The intestinal damage often causes diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating, and anemia, and can lead to serious complications.

There's no cure for celiac disease — but for most people, following a strict gluten-free diet can help manage symptoms and promote intestinal healing.

Symptoms of Celiac Disease: 

• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Bloating and gas
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Diarrhea 
• Anemia, usually from iron deficiency
• Loss of bone density (osteoporosis) or softening of bone (osteomalacia)
• Itchy, blistery skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)
• Mouth ulcers
• Headaches and fatigue
• Nervous system injury, including numbness and tingling in the feet and hands, possible problems with balance, and cognitive impairment
• Joint pain
• Reduced functioning of the spleen (hyposplenism)

Here is  a List of Helpful Tips for Gluten-Free in the Workplace:

•  Pack food and snacks in your purse or have a snack draw. It is better to be prepared instead of feeling the hunger kick in during late afternoon work hours. 
•  Tap into all the resources in your area. Reach out to other foodies with gluten restrictions on social media support groups or forums. You'd be surprised at all the helpful tips and research others in your area share with you on social media groups. You can also message local restaurants to see if they have any gluten-free options and protocols for cross-contamination.
• If you know the restaurant ahead of time, be proactive and call ahead before your client meeting. 
•  Employers who have employees with food intolerances and allergies can work with a workplace wellness specialist to ensure that ALL employees have the resources that they need. 
•  Work with your human resource coordinator to dedicate a space separate for all your food, dishes, and appliances in the lunch room/kitchen area. 

If you would like further support or resources reach out for assistance. Email Coach Jenny at jennifer@alisonjassoc.com 

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