For many, the centrepiece of Christmas Day is a sumptuous, traditional roast dinner. But for Alice Giddings and millions of others across the UK, the festive feast can be a source of anxiety and disappointment, thanks to the often-overlooked challenges of living with a serious food allergy.
The Lonely Plate: A Christmas Reality for Millions
Alice recalls Christmas Day 2023 vividly. While her family enjoyed a spread of turkey, roast potatoes, and rich gravy, her own plate held a starkly different meal: three fish fingers and some burnt chips. This wasn't by choice, but necessity. As someone with coeliac disease, even a trace of gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye – can trigger a damaging autoimmune response.
For people with coeliac disease, ingestion of gluten causes the immune system to attack the lining of the gut. This can lead to immediate symptoms like bloating and severe pain, and long-term risks including osteoporosis, nerve damage, and even bowel cancer. On that particular Christmas, a well-meaning relative used flour to thicken the gravy, contaminating the entire serving and rendering the main meal unsafe for Alice.
Shocking Statistics Reveal Widespread Festive Exclusion
Alice's experience is far from unique. According to a YouGov study, more than 5 million UK adults are likely to miss out on Christmas dinner this year because their food intolerance or allergy is overlooked. Perhaps more shockingly, the same research found that nearly 4 million adults would deliberately not invite someone to their celebrations if they had special dietary needs.
"If you are one of those people, I say this. You're downright rude," Alice states plainly. She emphasises that managing a condition like coeliac disease is about self-preservation, not a lifestyle choice. The argument that accommodating allergies is 'unreasonable' – a sentiment once voiced by broadcaster Vanessa Feltz – is one she firmly rejects. While Feltz later apologised, Alice urges the public to adopt a more understanding mindset.
Accidents Happen, But Effort is Everything
Catering for severe allergies is not without its challenges. Cross-contamination is a constant threat, from using the wrong serving spoon to a guest drinking from the wrong glass. Alice notes that arguments are common, with YouGov finding 12% of adults have rowed over an allergy, a figure that rises to 22% among 18-34-year-olds.
She recalls returning from a long trip abroad to a heated kitchen argument because Worcestershire sauce (containing gluten) had been used in a meal, forcing her once again to eat separately. Despite such incidents, she stresses that the key is genuine effort. Her own parents have mastered a full gluten-free roast with all the trimmings, proving it is possible with care and consultation.
The solution, she advises, is simple: invite your loved one, ask them for guidance on safe cooking practices, and involve them in the preparation. A little extra scrubbing of pans and attention to detail can ensure everyone has a seat at the table. This Christmas, let the spirit of inclusion override the inconvenience. No one should face a plate of fish fingers while others celebrate.
