16 Common Myths About Gluten: Myths or Reality? 

It might seem like just a legend, but there is some truth to it. Gluten can be transferred with a kiss if the other person has just eaten something containing it, like bread or pasta. To avoid concerns, it is enough for the partner to maintain good oral hygiene, allowing the coeliac person to kiss without worries.

Many diets claim that gluten is harmful to everyone, leading people to believe it is bad regardless of their health condition. In reality, for those who are not coeliac or intolerant, gluten is just a normal protein and does not cause problems (source: studies by the National Institutes of Health show that gluten is safe for most people).

Many believe that entering a bakery can be risky for those with coeliac condition, but this is not true. Research indicates that gluten is not found in the air in quantities that pose a danger to coeliacs (source: Associazione Italiana Celiachia).

The real risk comes from direct contact, such as touching contaminated surfaces and then bringing hands to the mouth, or eating foods containing gluten. The smell of fresh bread is not a problem. With a little attention, visiting a bakery can be a safe experience.

Gluten is not an enemy and should not be eliminated from the diet unless you are coeliac or intolerant. This protein, present in many cereals, is safe for most people. Removing gluten without a valid reason can lead to nutritional deficiencies, as many gluten-containing foods provide important fibre, vitamins, and minerals.

Following a gluten-free diet requires careful planning to avoid deficiencies. Foods like quinoa and legumes can be useful for maintaining a good nutritional balance.

Gluten is not harmful to most people. However, for those with coeliac condition or gluten sensitivity, it can cause problems such as intestinal damage and gastrointestinal disorders. For these people, avoiding gluten is essential. For those without such conditions, gluten is completely safe.

Eating gluten-free is essential for those with coeliac If a parent is coeliac, the children will also be coeliac, but it does not automatically imply good health. Like everyone else, coeliac people must follow a balanced and varied diet. It is not enough to eliminate gluten to have a healthy diet: it is crucial to choose high-quality foods and not overdo it with sugars and fats, as many gluten-free products are highly processed.

Coeliac condition has a genetic component, but this does not mean that all children of a coeliac parent will develop it. Having the genes for coeliac condition is just one of the factors involved, and the disease may never manifest.

Some environmental factors, such as infections or stress, can contribute to the development of coeliac condition, but it is not a certainty. It is important to pay attention to any symptoms and consult a doctor if necessary.

Many people believe that gluten is responsible for every digestive disorder, but there are many other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as non-coeliac gluten sensitivity or irritable bowel syndrome.

For example, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity can cause bloating and abdominal pain without damaging the intestine as in coeliac condition, while irritable bowel syndrome can cause cramps, diarrhoea, or constipation, often related to stress or certain foods. For this reason, it is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis from a doctor before deciding to eliminate gluten from your diet.

Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity is recognized by the scientific community, but it continues to be the subject of research. People with this sensitivity do not have intestinal damage like coeliacs, but they can experience similar symptoms after consuming gluten. Although studies are still ongoing, there is evidence suggesting the existence of this condition for some people.

Contrary to what one might think, coeliac condition can also manifest in adults. It is an autoimmune disease that can occur at any age, often triggered by stress or infections.

Many adults discover they are coeliac after years of mild symptoms that have been overlooked. It is important to know that coeliac condition can start at any time, and an early diagnosis can help prevent long-term complications.

Weight loss depends on dietary choices: some gluten-free foods can be high in sugars and fats. In fact, some people may lose weight after being diagnosed with coeliac condition because they start following a more balanced diet and their intestine heals, improving nutrient absorption. To lose weight, it is essential to pay attention to the quality of the diet.

Those with coeliac condition must completely eliminate gluten from their diet. Even small amounts can damage the intestine, even if symptoms do not appear immediately.

There are no "cheat days" for coeliacs, as even minimal exposure to gluten can cause problems. Negative effects can accumulate over time, causing significant damage. It is therefore essential to avoid any form of contamination, even accidental.

A common mistake is to consider coeliac condition as an allergy. In reality, coeliac condition is an autoimmune disease, while wheat allergy represents a different immune system reaction.

In coeliac condition, the immune system attacks the small intestine in response to gluten, causing long-term damage. Conversely, in wheat allergy, symptoms appear more immediately, such as itching or difficulty breathing. It is important to understand this distinction and know that coeliac condition and gluten intolerance are not the same thing.

With the right precautions, coeliacs can also eat out. Today, there are many certified gluten-free restaurants that offer safe options.

Many of these adopt protocols to avoid contamination, such as using separate kitchens or dedicated utensils to prepare gluten-free dishes. Even in stores, there are more and more gluten-free products, making life easier for those with coeliac condition.

Touching foods with gluten does not cause reactions in coeliacs, but it is important to wash your hands before touching other foods to avoid contamination. If a coeliac touches bread, nothing happens as long as they do not ingest the gluten. However, it is always better to wash hands well to reduce risks when preparing gluten-free foods.

With a little attention, it is possible to involve your partner in the gluten-free diet, discovering new recipes and flavours together. Cooking together can become an opportunity to experiment, such as making gluten-free pizza or almond flour desserts.

Many couples find that cooking together strengthens their bond and encourages them to make healthier choices. Trying a new gluten-free recipe every week can turn into a fun activity. Managing coeliac condition involves avoiding gluten and following a safe diet, but it does not mean giving up the pleasure of sharing food.