Today, September 13th, is National Celiac Awareness Day!
Celiac is estimated to affect at least 3 million Americans – that’s 1 in 133 – and an alarmingly small percentage of us have been diagnosed. And as many as 18 million Americans are sensitive to gluten, though they may not have the autoimmune response that Celiacs have. (I found these numbers here.) That’s why this is so important – even though some of us may be asymptomatic, we can still have Celiac Disease.
The whole month of May is Celiac Awareness month, but today is celebrated because it marks the birthday of Dr. Samuel Gee, who was one of the first doctors to realize the connection between diet and “a kind of chronic indigestion.” You can read more about Dr. Gee here.
Here’s the press release from National Foundation for Celiac Awareness.
And their 13 suggestions for spreading awareness.
What will you do today to help spread awareness of Celiac Disease? I’m bringing gluten-free cookies to work and to my classes – I’ve noticed that people tend to pay attention when there are cookies involved. 🙂
Oh thanks for the update! I had no idea, but I’ll be sure to spread the GF love today!!