A recent study has established that individuals with celiac disease can kiss their partners without fear of gluten exposure, even if their partner has just consumed gluten. Celiac disease sufferers have an immune response to gluten, which is present in many common foods, leading to the necessity for vigilance in everyday activities.
In response to frequent queries on forums like Reddit about kissing someone who has eaten gluten, Dr. Anne Lee from Columbia University conducted a study that evaluated this concern directly, as there were previously no official guidelines. The study involved 10 couples, each comprising one celiac and one non-celiac partner. The researchers examined the effects of kissing after the non-celiac partners consumed 10 saltine crackers, testing two scenarios: kissing after a five-minute wait and kissing after the non-celiac partner drank water.
Findings revealed that in the first scenario, two celiac participants had saliva gluten levels exceeding the FDA’s threshold for gluten-free foods, yet neither experienced symptoms. Conversely, in the water scenario, all saliva tests showed gluten levels below the safe threshold. Overall, only 10% of the kisses resulted in detectable gluten levels exceeding safe limits, and in general, symptoms were absent.
Experts emphasized that while the study confirms kissing is generally safe for most celiac patients, those extremely sensitive to gluten may still need to exercise caution. Recommendations suggest having the non-celiac partner drink water prior to kissing if there are concerns. Ultimately, the study alleviates social anxieties for those living with celiac disease, affirming that kissing can be a worry-free experience.
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