Celiac Disease and Travel: Preparing for a Gluten-Free Adventure

A dietician can be a valuable part of your health care team if you suffer from celiac disease. It is because managing the condition heavily relies on dietary changes and reading product labels to check for gluten.

Traveling with celiac disease presents unique challenges for individuals who must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet. However, having celiac disease should not stop you from experiencing the joys of traveling. You can travel safely with celiac disease, provided you make preparations in advance.

Not being able to access gluten-free foods is a genuine concern when abroad, and lack of preparation can lead to consuming unsuitable meals. In this article, we are going to help you prepare for a gluten-free adventure in your travels.

#1 Research Dining Options

Ensuring safe travel with celiac disease involves thorough research into the destination to identify gluten-free dining options and understand the local food culture. You are likely not the only individual with celiac disease to have traveled to the destination, and you can find tips online by researching.

#2 Pack Gluten-Free Essentials

You know best what is safe for you to consume. Therefore, always carry a supply of gluten-free snacks, such as gluten-free bars and trail mix to have on hand in case you encounter limited gluten-free options during your travels. Packing your own gluten-free backup food ensures that you have safe and convenient options wherever you go.

#3 Communicate Your Special Dietary Needs

From when you fly on the plane to when you dine out in the country, advocate for yourself and communicate your dietary needs. Airlines can provide gluten-free meals, and at restaurants, you can present a gluten-free restaurant card that explains your needs in the local language. It is very important for the card to mention cross-contamination, which is very common.

#4 Be Vigilant About Cross-Contact

Stay aware of the risks of cross-contact, where gluten-free food may come into contact with gluten-containing ingredients. When dining in shared kitchen environments or at social gatherings, communicate your concerns about cross-contamination and take necessary precautions to safeguard your meals.

#5 Visit the Local Grocery Stores

If you can, try to prepare some of your own meals with items from local grocery markets. It is safer this way, since you know what goes into the making of your food. In addition, by buying fresh fruit and vegetables and meat, you are less likely to become exposed to gluten, which is usually found in baked goods and pre-prepared meals.

#6 Come Prepared for Flare-Ups

Traveling with celiac disease can be demanding. Allow yourself time for rest and relaxation, and be prepared for unexpected situations by carrying any necessary medications or supplements.

You can have an enjoyable time traveling abroad even with celiac disease, and even discover new gluten-free culinary delights. By staying prepared and informed, you can travel confidently while savoring the experiences and flavors the world has to offer.

Signs You Have Been Exposed to Gluten While Traveling

As someone with celiac disease, being exposed to gluten can lead to a variety of symptoms that you are likely already familiar with, such as:

• Nausea and Vomiting: One of the common signs of gluten exposure for individuals with celiac disease is experiencing nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can indicate a negative reaction to gluten.

• Abdominal Pain and Diarrhea: Exposure to gluten can lead to abdominal pain and diarrhea, which are prevalent symptoms in individuals with celiac disease who have ingested gluten.

• Fatigue and Headache: Feeling fatigued and experiencing headaches are also potential signs of gluten exposure for those with celiac disease.

• Irritability and Moodiness: Moodiness, irritability, and anxiety can be pervasive symptoms following gluten exposure, contributing to a sense of discomfort and unease.

• Digestive Distress: Other digestive issues such as bloating, cramps, flatulence, and foul-smelling bowel movements may manifest after gluten exposure.

• Brain Fog and Cognitive Impairment: Many individuals report experiencing “brain fog” and problems with thinking following gluten exposure, affecting cognitive function.

Celiac disease is more than just a gluten-sensitivity. If not managed correctly, it can lead to damage to the small intestine and the development of new autoimmune disorders.

Celiac Disease Treatment in Austin, TX

If you are experiencing symptoms of celiac disease or want to better manage your condition, consult our board-certified and fellowship trained gastroenterology doctors at Austin Gastro. Our team of GI specialists is highly experienced in the treatment and management of celiac disease.

We are committed to providing our patients with the right support they need to enjoy their lives and prevent known complications from this GI condition. To schedule an appointment with one of our GI doctors, call our location nearest you or use our online form to schedule your visit.