Misconceptions about celiac disease - Blog
what is really true?
If you yourself (or someone in your family) have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, you probably know that there is a lot of confusion about it. At our B&B, we regularly hear questions or comments that are well-intentioned but not entirely accurate. Therefore, we list a few of the most common misunderstandings for you - just to make things a little easier.
A little bit of gluten can't hurt, right?
We understand where this comes from, but with celiac disease, even a crumb is really too much. The body reacts violently to gluten, which can damage the intestinal wall. That's why it's so important that everything really is 100% gluten-free - not just the food itself, but the way it's prepared.
Is celiac disease an allergy?
Many people think so, but celiac disease is actually an autoimmune disease. That means the body attacks itself when gluten is eaten. So it is very different from a food allergy. And, unfortunately, it doesn't go away by itself either.
Eating gluten-free is healthier for everyone, right?
You often hear that, but it's not entirely true. For people without celiac disease, a gluten-free diet is not necessarily healthier. Some gluten-free products contain less fiber or vitamins. Those who eat gluten-free on vacation in Portugal usually do so out of necessity, not trend.
Spelt is allowed, right?
Spelt sounds healthier, of course, but it still contains gluten. So it is not safe for someone with celiac disease. Even though it is often considered a "mild" grain, it really belongs on the list of things to avoid.
Can you just eat gluten-free in restaurants in Portugal?
In an ordinary restaurant, unfortunately, this is not so simple. The chances of cross-contamination are high there. Think of a cutting board that just had bread on it, or a sauce with a little flour on it. At our place, fortunately, you don't have to think about that. Everything is gluten-free - from breakfast to dinner and even the snacks and drinks.
With us, you don't have to explain anything
We understand exactly what you need. You don't have to explain what celiac disease is here. You don't have to worry about whether the food is safe. Everything we serve is gluten-free. Always.
So you can just enjoy your vacation like everyone else.