Celiac Disease and the Gluten-Free Diet — A Comprehensive Guide

Celiac disease is a condition that is increasingly being discussed both by specialists and people interested in a healthy lifestyle. Although its symptoms may vary, one thing is certain — for people with celiac disease, strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is essential. In this article, we will explain exactly what celiac disease is, how big the problem is in Poland, why a gluten-free diet is the only effective treatment, and what challenges are associated with following it. You will also learn how to recognize trustworthy gluten-free products thanks to national and international certifications, and finally, you will find a special offer that allows you to safely and deliciously test certified products.

Table of Contents

• What is celiac disease?
• The scale of the problem in Poland
• Why is a gluten-free diet the only effective treatment?
• Challenges in following a gluten-free diet
• Gluten-free certifications in Poland and worldwide
• Summary and special promotion from DIET-FOOD
• Sources

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the consumption of gluten (found in wheat, rye, and barley) triggers an immune response that damages the villi of the small intestine. The disease manifests itself with symptoms such as diarrhea, anemia, or osteoporosis. Lifelong avoidance of gluten, even in trace amounts, is required.

The scale of the problem in Poland

In Poland, it is estimated that about 380,000 people may suffer from celiac disease, of which as many as 90–95% remain undiagnosed — significantly delaying access to proper treatment.

Why is a gluten-free diet the only effective treatment?

Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet from the moment of diagnosis is absolutely essential. Gluten is not a choice — it is medicine for a person with celiac disease, and avoiding it is the only treatment for this condition.

Challenges in following a gluten-free diet

– Studies show that one of the most difficult moments is eating meals outside the home — it is hard to be 100% certain that a dish is free of gluten.
– Surveys also indicate that the insufficient assortment of gluten-free products in stores poses a significant challenge, even for residents of large cities.

Gluten-free certifications in Poland and worldwide

Poland

In Poland, the main quality mark is the "Crossed Grain" certificate, which signifies products that meet strict standards and are regularly audited. It is a symbol of safety for consumers with celiac disease.

International standards

Outside Poland, there are also international certification systems, such as:

• Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO),
• Crossed Grain Symbol (used in Western Europe and many EU countries),
• NFCA Certification in the USA.

It is worth remembering that suppliers may have their own gluten-free certificates, in accordance with local regulations. Therefore, it is always a good idea to make sure that a product is marked with a reliable certification — whether it comes from a Polish or foreign manufacturer.

Summary and special promotion from DIET-FOOD

Celiac disease is a serious condition that requires lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet — it is not a trend, but a necessity for treatment. In Poland, awareness and the availability of safe products are increasing, and both national and international certifications are key elements in guaranteeing quality.

👉 If you want to try different flavors of certified gluten-free pasta and see their quality for yourself, we invite you to take advantage of our special promotional tasting set offer — it is a great opportunity to experiment safely and deliciously in the kitchen.

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Sources

• NCEZ (2019) – Dietary recommendations for celiac disease: the need to avoid gluten (even in trace amounts) and to follow the diet only after diagnosis is complete.
• PolitykaZdrowotna (2024) – Celiac disease affects approx. 380,000 people in Poland, most of whom are unaware of the condition.
• MedExpress (2024) – A gluten-free diet is not only necessary but also "medicine for people with celiac disease".
• Polish Association of People with Celiac Disease and on a Gluten-Free Diet (2025) – Reports, certifications, and consumer studies of food.

The content of this article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and cannot replace a consultation with a doctor or nutrition specialist.