In Our South Asian Communities
Let’s Talk About It
Celiac disease doesn’t just affect Western populations. It’s a real and rising concern in South Asian communities across Canada, including here in BC. But many people are still unaware of what it is or how it shows up in our diets.
âś‹ What You Need to Know
Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune condition that’s triggered by gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For someone with celiac, eating gluten damages the gut lining and makes it difficult to absorb nutrients.
In South Asian households, where atta, naan, parathas, and sooji halwa are staples, gluten is often part of every meal. That can make celiac disease especially tricky to recognize and manage.
đź’¬ Signs That Often Get Missed
Many South Asians with celiac disease go undiagnosed or are told they have IBS, “gas trouble,” or just a sensitive stomach.
Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Bloating or stomach pain after meals
- Feeling tired all the time
- Iron deficiency, even with a good diet
- Skin rashes or mouth ulcers
- Unexplained weight loss
- Poor growth or slow development in kids
- Ongoing constipation or diarrhea
These symptoms can look like other common health issues, which is why celiac disease often gets missed. But the right testing can make a big difference.
Getting Tested in BC
In British Columbia, you can ask your family doctor for a blood test to screen for celiac disease. If needed, they’ll refer you to a specialist for further testing. The testing is covered by MSP (Medical Services Plan), so don’t hesitate to bring it up.
Important: Keep eating gluten until testing is complete – even if you think it’s causing symptoms.
đź”— Want to Learn More?
For more details on causes, symptoms, testing, and treatment, visit my full post here: https://nourishtothriverd.com/2025/05/06/celiac-disease-101/
đź’ˇ Coming next week: A South Asian-friendly guide to gluten-free diet.
Nourish to Thrive RD 