Celiac Week: May 21st to 17th

On the occasion of Coeliac Week, in El Vergel we are joining the celebrations from the 25th to the 27th of May with special discounts on a selection of organic gluten-free cereals: millet and quinoa, 5% on online shopping and 10% on purchases in our supermarkets. More and more people in Spain are suffering from allergies and intolerance to gluten from wheat, barley, rye and oats, which is why on such a significant date we want to show our solidarity with all people with coeliac disease.

The Federation of Associations of Coeliacs in Spain (FACE) has established the Week of Coeliacs from 21 to 27 May as part of the celebration of National Coeliac Day on 27 May. Coeliac disease involves a permanent intolerance to gluten in cereals such as wheat, barley, rye and oats (the latter provided it is not certified as gluten-free). Currently, it is estimated that a high percentage of patients, around 75% are undiagnosed, as coeliac disease has for years been associated with its classic form of clinical presentation. Coeliac disease can manifest itself at any stage of life and is linked to a wide range of symptoms: weight loss, appetite, growth retardation, anaemia, abdominal pain, meteorism, constipation, diarrhoea, mouth sores, early menopause, arthritis, osteoporosis, peripheral oedema, mood disorders (apathy, sadness, irritability…). The truth is that not all coeliacs present the same symptoms or signs, but their treatment is exclusively carried out by eliminating gluten from the diet.

Millet and Quinoa: two cereals suitable for coeliacs

Millet and quinoa are two 100% gluten-free cereals that are recommended in diets for coeliacs because of their excellent nutritional properties. Millet is considered by Traditional Chinese Medicine as a sacred and therapeutic food. Besides having alkalizing qualities, it is a natural remineralizer. Very easy to digest, it has a large amount of fiber and a significant content of magnesium and phosphorus. In addition, its contribution of vitamins of the group B, like the B1, the B9 or folic acid, the B6 and the B2 is perfect for the nervous system. Its consumption favours the renewal of blood cells and prevents cases of fatigue and anaemia. These excellent nutritional values make it a very beneficial food for people suffering from ulcers, gas, diarrhoea, acidity or constipation.

Quinoa, on the other hand, is highly appreciated as a source of high-quality complete protein as it contains all the essential amino acids. Really considered a pseudo-cereal, it also has a high and great variety of vitamins and minerals such as manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and copper. Very easy to digest, like millet, it also has a low glycemic index, which maintains blood sugar levels. It also stands out for the presence of unsaturated omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which help control blood cholesterol levels, and its high fiber content (it can reach 15 grams per 100 grams). Its high energy value makes quinoa a very valuable food, similar to oats. There are three varieties of quinoa, white, red and black, each of which has specific properties. The white variety is the best known, it stands out for its mild flavour and for containing fewer calories than the other varieties. Red quinoa is the one with the highest value of carbohydrates, which makes it a more energetic food. Black Quinoa was born as a hybrid of crossing Quinoa seeds and spinach. It is notable for the presence of lithium, which helps to regulate stress and decrease depression. It also has anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

At El Vergel we wanted to join the Week of the Coeliac by offering discounts on organically grown quinoa and millet grains, two perfect cereals for gluten-free diets with which to prepare delicious dishes. For all online purchases: a 5% discount on millet from Naturgreen and Finestra sul Cielo and quinoa from Ok Eco, Quinua Real, Saldac and Biotona. And for purchases in our supermarkets, a 10% discount (not cumulative with other discounts).