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Joining a Forum or Support Group for Gluten Allergies

By: Christine Whitfield BA (hons) - Updated: 7 Oct 2012 | comments*Discuss
 
Gluten Allergy Support Allergy Support

Gluten allergy is increasingly being recognised as a large-scale problem with numerous sufferers. One study claims that 1 in 133 Americans suffer from this condition whilst another reports the numbers at 1 in 111 adults, whilst research in terms of children puts the figure at 1 in 167 gluten allergy sufferers. Many people who were initially regarded as suffering from irritable bowel syndrome or chronic diarrhoea are now being re-diagnosed as having a gluten allergy.

With such numbers it is no surprise that gluten allergy support is on the rise with support groups and forums emerging all the time. In today’s digital age there are many gluten allergy forums where a user can discuss their problem with fellow sufferers, seek advice from those who will understand or just exchange gluten free recipes.

A Problem Shared

Due possibly to the lack of understanding of gluten allergy in the medical profession there is a tangible sense of togetherness and a distinct notion of a problem shared being a problem halved. The sheer number of people who are members of the forums and the variety of gluten related topics under discussion on the message boards demonstrates a real banding together to help each other out.

In joining these gluten allergy forums a sufferer can receive more than just invaluable conversation with those who are having the same difficulties. These groups also send regular newsletters and emails containing the latest news on gluten allergy research, information, recipes and more. They also offer advice on restaurants and even links to sites where a travelling sufferer can print off gluten free allergy cards in many different languages.

An alternative option to the Internet is telephone helplines where a sufferer can speak directly to other gluten allergy sufferers to vocally discuss their problem. For the most personal touch of all though a gluten allergy sufferer can join their local allergy support group. There are different types, those that are solely for gluten allergy sufferers or on a larger scale, allergy sufferers in general.

Support Groups

There are dozens of support groups around the country who organise gluten free events of all types of varieties; quiz nights, lectures, meetings, dancing, cooking demonstrations and more. From the practical to just plain old fun the common denominator of all events is that a gluten free meal guaranteed. These gluten allergy support groups also have their own newsletters, books, magazines and fact-sheets available to their members.

Thanks to the tireless campaigning and fundraising of groups such as these there is now a hectic calendar of events for anyone who wishes to become a member such as gluten free food fairs, gluten free food festivals and even a gluten free awards ceremony.The best way to go about joining these gluten allergy support groups and gluten allergy forums is through the Internet. However should a sufferer not have access to the Internet or be unfamiliar with the process then a visit to the local GP will suffice, as they can put a suspected sufferer in touch with the gluten allergy support groups or gluten allergy forums.

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