Luboš lives with celiac disease, and his daily life is shaped by constantly monitoring what he eats. A gluten-free diet is the only effective treatment, but it brings regular additional costs amounting to thousands each month.
Financial support and accessible options make everyday routines easier
Luboš had to give up many activities to afford the expensive foods and supplements he needs. Benefits for purchasing gluten-free food, nutritional counseling, or safe dining options would significantly ease the burden. An employee whose health is stable and whose budget is not overwhelmed works more efficiently and with greater peace of mind.
Why it matters for employers
Luboš’s story shows how a chronic condition requiring a lifelong and costly diet can affect an employee’s financial stability and mental well-being.
- Reduced financial pressure
- Improved health and prevention of complications
- Increased concentration and performance
- Strengthened company culture and image
- Support for diversity and inclusion
Celiac disease affects approximately 1 in 100 people, but up to 75 % of cases remain undiagnosed. The only treatment is a lifelong gluten-free diet, which is financially demanding and can cost up to 40,000 CZK per year. As a result, people with celiac disease spend thousands of crowns more per month in the long term compared to the general population.
What does an expert say?
“Celiac disease is a lifelong autoimmune condition in which the body reacts inappropriately to the presence of gluten in food. It causes varying degrees of inflammation of the intestinal lining, and the only effective treatment is a gluten-free diet.
Gluten is a protein found in the outer layer of wheat, rye, and barley grains. As a result, many common foods and drinks contain it, while gluten-free alternatives are significantly more expensive and less accessible.”
PharmDr. Hana Chudobová, Family Pharmacy Vitalpoint
