Although in recent times it has been noticed an increase in the number of children diagnosed with celiac disease, it is still necessary more knowledge at the social level (and above all educational), so that the small affected reach a better quality of life.
A few months ago, the Ombudsman for the Community of Madrid (recently disappeared office), presented a very useful guide entitled 'The celiac child in school', this has been developed in collaboration with the Association of Celiacs of Madrid. It aims to serve as guidance for school directors, catering companies, school canteen staff, and (of course) for affected families.
Arturo Canalda (the one who was the defender of the child) mentioned during the presentation of the Guide that 'the precautions in the school should basically focus on the school canteen and on the celebrations in which food can be offered to children'
In his opinion, this disease It should not be an obstacle to the development of a normalized life, especially in the case of children, who should not be prevented from attending birthday parties or school commitments, provided that those responsible know that the diet to be followed should not be skipped.
In the text we find a lot of information about symptoms, diagnosis, menus, coexistence, or practical advice.
The treatment of this disease is very simple because it consists in the exclusion of gluten 'for life' from the diet: with it the symptoms disappear, and the intestinal lesions tend to repair
Some time ago, and thanks to the Association of Melilla, we learned that it is important for the educational community to know Celiac Disease to avoid cross contamination, help improve empathy among students, and provide information of interest to parents.
When there are cases of celiac children in school, a very fluid communication is recommended: starting with the fact that the student must have adequate information about your situation, continuing with the involvement of teachers and non-teaching staff, and ending with the need for the affected classmates to also understand the disease, so that they can collaborate and avoid diet transgressions.
