<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

My two cents worth.

Yes I think there is fanaticism within the celiac community.  Is it a
problem?  Depends.

The answer lies with each individual.  There are varying opinions as to
what is gluten free, not only to individuals, but among the recognized
celiac organizations worldwide.  For example, the Canadian Celiac
Association, whose guidelines I follow, believe that distilled alcohol
and vinegar are gluten free as the distillation process eliminates
gluten.  I follow these guidelines and believe I am doing the best for
my health.  Other organizations do not allow distilled alcohol and
vinegar unless they are from a non-gluten containing source.  The people
that follow these guidelines believe they are doing the best for their
health.

Those that have multiple food intolerances have a much more limited
choice of foods  therefore they may have to be more diligent in their
quest for appropriate food choices.

Those individuals that are very demanding and not very politically
correct in their quest may give all celiacs the "fanatical" label.  It
is the same for every way of life, not just with celiacs, that one bad
apple can spoil the bunch.

I will do whatever I can, within limits, to maintain a gluten free diet.
I will not become "fanatical" about it.  I ask the pharmacist to check
the "book", sorry I can't remember the name, to ensure my medications
are GF.  I will read ingredient labels, phone 1-800 numbers and rely on
my local chapters shopping guide.  If a product label is doubtful I will
not purchase it.  If a food product gives me a reaction, which is hard
to tell because I am an asymptomatic celiac, I will give it one more
chance.   I have many more areas of my life that require attention than
worrying about minute amounts of gluten.  I rely on my celiac
association and my own research and judgement in following the diet.

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Systems Analyst, Capital Health