Navigating a gluten-free lifestyle in Amman is increasingly feasible, thanks to growing awareness, improved product availability, and active community support. Whether you’re visiting or residing in Jordan, this guide offers essential insights into managing celiac disease or gluten intolerance in the capital.
🧬 Celiac Disease in Jordan: Prevalence & Research
Celiac disease is recognized as a significant health concern in Jordan, with several studies highlighting its prevalence:
- General Population: A study reported a serological prevalence of celiac disease in Jordanian schoolchildren at approximately 0.8% (1 in 124) .
- Type 1 Diabetes Patients: Among pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes, the prevalence of biopsy-proven celiac disease was found to be 9.1%, underscoring the importance of screening in high-risk groups (study in PDF).
- Autoimmune Hypothyroidism Patients: A study identified a 5.7% prevalence of histologically confirmed celiac disease among patients with autoimmune hypothyroidism in Jordan.
These findings emphasize the need for increased awareness and screening, particularly among high-risk populations.
🏥 Support Organizations & Community Initiatives
Jordan hosts active organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with celiac disease:
- Celiac & Non-Celiac Care Providers Society (CCCPS) or جمعية رعاية مرضى السيلياك الخيرية: Established in 2018, CCCPS is a patient-led organization comprising healthcare professionals and individuals affected by celiac disease. The society focuses on advocacy, education, and support, and is affiliated with the Association of European Coeliac Societies (AOECS).
- Friends of Celiac Disease Patients Charity Association: This organization collaborates with entities like the Jordan Hotels Association to conduct workshops aimed at educating hospitality professionals on gluten-free food safety, thereby enhancing dining experiences for celiac patients.
These organizations play a pivotal role in raising awareness, providing resources, and advocating for the needs of the celiac community in Jordan.
🛒 Grocery Shopping for Gluten-Free Products
Amman offers a variety of supermarkets and health food stores that cater to gluten-free needs. Below are some of the top options where you can find gluten-free products:
🛍️ Major Supermarkets & Health Food Stores with Gluten-Free Sections
- Cozmo: Provides a dedicated gluten-free section online, featuring a range of products including gluten-free bread, pasta, and snacks. 🔗 Explore Cozmo’s Gluten-Free Products
- Safeway Jordan Safeway offers a selection of gluten-free products across its stores.
- Miles Supermarket Miles Supermarket carries a range of health and specialty foods, including gluten-free options.
- Pharmacies Large pharmacy chains like PharmaOne and Al-Hikma often carry gluten-free snacks and supplements. It’s advisable to inquire directly at individual locations for specific product availability.
📦 Online Grocery Platforms
- Jet Grocery App: A fast-growing delivery app in Amman with a wide selection of groceries. While there’s no specific gluten-free filter, many items can be found by searching for brand names (like “Schär”) or keywords. 🔗 Jet Grocery App
- Dumyah: This online platform offers a gluten-free stock that includes cereals, cookies, pasta, and bread alternatives. 🔗 Search here
- Basket.app: Connects users with local supermarkets, allowing them to shop online and have groceries delivered to their doorstep.
- Talabat: Originally a food delivery app, Talabat has expanded to include grocery delivery through Talabat Mart and partnerships with local stores.
- Careem NOW: Part of the Careem super-app, it offers grocery delivery services in addition to ride-hailing and food delivery.
📱 Navigating Dining and Delivery Apps
While dining out, clear communication is essential:
- Language Tips: Learning key Arabic phrases can help convey dietary restrictions. For example, “Ana andi hassasiya min al-gluten” means “I have a gluten allergy.”
- Delivery Apps: Platforms like Talabat and Careem operate in Amman. However, they may lack specific filters for gluten-free options, so it’s recommended to contact restaurants directly to confirm gluten-free offerings.
🧠 Community Support and Resources
Connecting with local support groups and online communities can provide valuable assistance:
- Online Forums: Social media platforms host groups where individuals share experiences, restaurant recommendations, and tips for managing a gluten-free lifestyle in Jordan.
- Educational Workshops: Organizations like CCCPS regularly conduct workshops and seminars to educate patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals about celiac disease and gluten-free living.
Engaging with these communities can offer support, information, and a sense of belonging.
👉 Looking for safe dining options? Explore gluten-free restaurants in Amman for celiac-friendly spots and 100% GF bakeries.
This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to manage a gluten-free lifestyle in Amman effectively. Stay tuned for our upcoming pages detailing gluten-free dining options in Amman and navigating gluten-free choices at Queen Alia International Airport.
