Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance: What You Need to Know

Many people today avoid gluten, opting for gluten-free options or steering clear of common foods, like baked goods, that contain wheat, barley, or rye to prevent various health issues. Some of these people are diagnosed with Celiac disease, others are gluten intolerant. Both conditions can cause discomfort and health issues but differ in their underlying causes, symptoms, and management.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

• What is the Difference Between Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance?
• Celiac Disease
• Gluten Intolerance
• Symptoms of Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance
• Diagnosis Process
• Treatments for Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance
• Foods That Help with Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance
• See Your GP at Laurimar Medical Centre

What is the Difference Between Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance?

Celiac disease and gluten intolerance impact individuals’ ability to digest gluten, a protein in wheat, barley, and rye. Both, however, can affect your health and well-being. Understanding what is Celiac disease and what is gluten intolerance is essential for identifying the appropriate treatment. At Laurimar Medical Centre, there are GPs and a dietician on hand to help you find the best care.

While Celiac disease and gluten intolerance share similar symptoms, they are distinct conditions.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage impairs nutrient absorption and can lead to long-term health complications, including malnutrition and osteoporosis. Celiac disease is genetically predisposed, meaning it often runs in families.

Gluten Intolerance

Also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten intolerance is a condition where individuals experience gastrointestinal and other symptoms after consuming gluten but without the autoimmune response or intestinal damage seen in Celiac disease. Gluten intolerance doesn’t cause lasting damage to the small intestine but can lead to discomfort and other health concerns.

Symptoms of Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance

These conditions share overlapping symptoms but have some key differences…

Symptoms of Celiac Disease

• abdominal pain and bloating
• chronic diarrhea or constipation
• unexplained weight loss
• fatigue and weakness
• skin rashes
• iron-deficiency anaemia
• bone or joint pain

In children, symptoms may also include delayed growth and irritability.

Symptoms of Gluten Intolerance

• bloating and gas
• abdominal discomfort
• fatigue
• headaches
• joint pain
• brain fog or difficulty concentrating

Diagnosis Process

Diagnosing Celiac disease generally involves blood tests and a small intestine biopsy to look for signs of damage. The blood test measures specific antibodies, which are elevated in people with Celiac disease. A biopsy is often performed to confirm the diagnosis if the blood test results are positive.

There are no specific tests for gluten intolerance. Diagnosis is usually based on a process of elimination where doctors rule out other conditions, including Celiac disease and wheat allergies. If symptoms improve after a gluten-free diet, gluten intolerance could be the issue.

Treatments for Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance

The only effective treatment for Celiac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. This helps prevent further intestinal damage and allows the intestine to heal. Individuals with Celiac disease must avoid all foods containing wheat, barley, and rye, including hidden sources of gluten in processed foods.

Treatment for gluten intolerance usually involves reducing or eliminating gluten from your diet. People with gluten intolerance should avoid gluten-containing foods to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Foods That Help with Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance

• fruits and vegetables
• lean proteins (e.g., chicken, fish, and tofu)
• gluten-free grains (e.g., rice, quinoa, etc.)
• legumes and nuts

Those with Celiac disease must avoid even trace amounts of gluten to prevent flare-ups. Cross-contamination from utensils, benchtops, and cookware should be carefully managed.

See Your GP at Laurimar Medical Centre

If you’re experiencing symptoms like chronic abdominal pain, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss, speak with your GP. The team at Laurimar Medical Centre is dedicated to providing tailored care in the treatment of Celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Contact Laurimar Medical Centre today.