Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition, not an allergy or intolerance. Eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, triggers the immune system to attack the lining of the small intestine. This can lead to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, fatigue and nutrient deficiencies, though some people have few or no obvious symptoms.
Coeliac disease is diagnosed through a blood test followed by a gut biopsy, and it's important not to start a gluten-free diet before testing is complete, as this can affect the accuracy of the results. Once diagnosed, the only treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet.
Adjusting to a gluten-free lifestyle can feel daunting at first, particularly around cross-contamination, eating out and reading food labels. This is exactly where dietetic support makes the biggest difference.
How a dietitian can help
- Help you confidently interpret food labels and spot hidden sources of gluten
- Support you in avoiding cross-contamination at home and when eating out
- Check for and address common nutrient shortfalls (fibre, iron, calcium, B vitamins)
- Keep your gluten-free diet varied, enjoyable and nutritionally balanced
- Provide follow-up monitoring to support long-term gut healing
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for personalised dietetic or medical advice. Please speak to your GP or book a consultation with our dietitian before making changes to your diet, supplements or medication.
Talk it through first, for free.
Book a free 15 to 20 minute discovery call to talk about your situation and how we can help. No obligation to book further.